?? Celebrating WIC Week 2025 ?? -TOGETHER WE RISE- ??
At The Wellington White Portfolio, we are proud to spotlight the incredible women who are shaping the future of our industry. The week begins with Dr. Ana Persad, DBA, EMBA, HITT – a trailblazer in construction and business leadership. Her groundbreaking work and dedication continue to inspire and empower the next generation of women in our field.
??♀? Dr. Ana talks about her Journey ???
Over the past 20 years, I've had the privilege of growing, learning, and thriving in the construction industry, despite the challenges that come with being a woman in a male-dominated field. At first, I'll admit that it was tough. I faced skepticism, bias, and even outright sexism. Instead of letting those obstacles hold me back, I chose to use them as fuel to drive me forward. I worked harder, smarter, and more strategically to prove myself, earn respect, and build a reputation as a talented and dedicated professional.
And you know what? It paid off! I've had the opportunity to work on amazing projects, collaborate with incredible teams, and mentor and inspire other women to join the industry. I've also seen the industry evolve and become more inclusive, with more women in leadership roles and a growing recognition of the value that diversity brings.
If I had to pick one project that really stands out to me, it would have to be a project in 2015 where I built the first sushi restaurant in the iconic Empire State Building in the greatest city in the world, New York City! It was an incredible experience, from navigating the complexities of working in a historic landmark to bringing a unique and innovative dining concept to life. Seeing the finished product and knowing that I played a role in bringing it to fruition was truly unforgettable.
Through it all, I've learned to be resilient, adaptable, and confident. I've developed a thick skin, a strong voice, and a willingness to take risks. And I've discovered that being a woman in construction isn't a limitation – it's a strength. So, to anyone who's considering a career in construction, I say: go for it! It won't always be easy, but it will be worth it. And to my fellow women in construction, I say: let's keep pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and building a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come!
Join us as we celebrate the women who make a difference, every day. ???? #WICWeek2025 #WomenInConstruction #Leadership #Diversity #Inspiration.
Andre GrebensteinIvan Cavieses, LEED GACraig Levine HITT Contracting Inc. Dr. Ana Persad, DBA, EMBA Kirk Gimenez
