In honor of Women In Construction Week, we’re highlighting some of the fantastic women who make Warfel a great place to work. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics expects available jobs in STEM fields to increase 17% by 2024, but only 18 – 19% of individuals receiving degrees in computer science, engineering, or physics are women. Check out our featured employee today (Preconstruction Administrator Stephanie Berkheiser), and follow along all week as we learn more about the team members who make Warfel a leader in the construction management industry.
Describe what you do at Warfel: I support the Preconstruction Managers with any tasks they need help with. Anything from creating meeting minutes, to creating and finalizing AIA contracts, printing of drawings, and lots of scheduling.
Where did you go to school? Harrisburg Area Community College
How long have you worked at Warfel? Almost 3 years – 2 years 11 months
What did you do before you came to Warfel? I was a Cad Drafter for a local architect in Lancaster.
What is your favorite part of your job? The people and variety of things I do here daily. No day is ever the same. There are always opportunities to learn something new and challenge yourself.
What is the worst job you ever had? Working at a fast food restaurant in high school.
What is your most exciting accomplishment? Raising two independent children to adulthood.
What advice would you give someone applying to Warfel? Be passionate about your abilities, but be open to new ideas and new ways of doing things.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in your career? ALWAYS be honest and treat people with kindness. Being a good listener is also very important.
What has changed the most since you’ve started your career? The technology for sure.
What’s your favorite part of working in the construction industry? I just really appreciate the hard work the guys in the field put in to make these beautiful projects come to life. It’s one thing to see renderings and drawings on paper, but to go out into the field and watch it being built is so awesome to see.
What do you think is the most challenging part of the construction industry? Getting and keeping qualified workers.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Watching almost any Penn State sport and traveling.
What’s a fun fact about you that we might not know? I love the 80’s!
You can learn more about the statistics of Women in Construction here.