Throughout history, women have stepped into industries where they were once rarely seen, construction sites and engineering firms, and proven that talent, expertise, and determination know no gender. While these fields were traditionally male-dominated, the presence and leadership of women have steadily reshaped them for the better.

In honor of Women’s History Month, we spoke with several women across the Resource Options team who are helping drive that progress every day. From recruiting and account management to mentorship and advocacy, each of them shared insights about representation, opportunity, and the importance of building a more inclusive industry.

Their stories remind us that progress is not just about opening doors, it’s about holding them open for others who follow.

What drew you to construction and engineering recruiting, and what made you stay?

Madison Chaialee, Account Manager
“My friends in staffing thought I’d be a natural recruiter, and construction has always drawn me. Growing up helping my dad in the industry made me feel connected from the start. I like to joke that I didn’t grow up or go to school wanting to be a recruiter, but what’s kept me here is the people. From our team at ROI to every client and candidate I get to connect with, the relationships I build, and the sense that I belong in this industry make every day rewarding. Every conversation is a chance to learn something new.”

Emma Nerrow, Recruiter
“What initially drew me to construction recruiting was how tangible the work is. The people I work with are designing infrastructure and building projects that become part of the landscape and history of places like Boston and the surrounding area. It’s rewarding to know that by connecting the right people with the right opportunities, you can play a small role in supporting those projects and the teams behind them. Helping professionals grow their careers while supporting companies as they build strong teams makes this work especially fulfilling.”

Alana Cormier, Recruiter
“I was initially drawn to construction recruiting because it gave me the opportunity to help professionals find roles that align with both their career goals and personal lives. What has made me stay is the relationship-building aspect of the role. I’ve had the privilege of developing long-term connections with candidates and clients, while continuously learning more about the AEC industry and growing alongside the professionals I work with.”

What does representation in the field mean to you?

Madison Chaialee, Account Manager
“Representation matters because it shows what’s possible. Seeing people with different perspectives succeed in construction and engineering reminds all of us that we belong. When women are visible in the field and in leadership, it sends a strong message: success comes from skill, hard work, and knowledge, not gender. It also inspires the next generation to know they belong too.”

Alana Cormier, Recruiter
“From a recruiting perspective, representation matters because the candidates we introduce help shape project teams, company culture, and the future of the industry. To me, representation is about actively advocating for diverse talent, helping companies build inclusive teams, and contributing to an industry where different perspectives are valued as a strength rather than an exception.”

Laura Hawes, Account Manager
“Representation means visibility and access. When women see other women successfully operating in construction, environmental consulting, or technical recruiting, it removes the psychological barrier that says, ‘Maybe this isn’t for me.’ It also changes conversations. Different perspectives influence hiring decisions, leadership styles, and company culture. Representation isn’t symbolic, it’s strategic. It strengthens teams and industries long-term.”

How do you advocate for diversity in industries that historically lack it?

Allyson Cook
“Advocating for diversity in industries that historically lack it involves promoting inclusive hiring practices, supporting mentorship and development opportunities for underrepresented groups, and encouraging leadership to prioritize equity and accountability. It also means challenging biases and outdated norms while helping create a workplace culture where diverse perspectives are valued and supported.”

Emma Nerrow, Recruiter
“As a recruiter, I have the opportunity to introduce companies to talented professionals they may not have met otherwise. I also make a point to highlight the many women in this industry who are leading teams and managing major projects. Seeing women in those roles is powerful, especially for students or early-career professionals considering the field, and helps show that there is real opportunity for growth and leadership in this industry.”

Do you have any female mentors at ROI who helped you navigate this profession?

Gabrielle Caruso, Recruiter
“Yes, my manager Tiffani Tartaglia has been a huge mentor to me as I’ve navigated this new profession, especially in such a male-dominated field. I really admire the confidence, strength, and assertiveness she brings to her role every day. Watching her handle conversations, meetings, site visits, and other day-to-day responsibilities has helped me immensely. Her confidence, knowledge, and passion for our business immediately command respect in a field that doesn’t always give it freely.”

Looking Forward

The women highlighted here represent a growing number of professionals shaping industries that once had far fewer female voices. Their experiences reflect the importance of representation, mentorship, and advocacy, not just for women entering the field today, but for the future of the industry as a whole.

This Women’s History Month, we want to extend a sincere thank you to Allyson Cook, Gabrielle Caruso, Madison Chaialee, Emma Nerrow, Alana Cormier, and Laura Hawes for sharing their perspectives and experiences. By speaking openly about their journeys, they are helping create a more inclusive and welcoming path for the next generation of professionals.

Celebrating women in historically male-dominated fields is not just about recognizing progress, it’s about honoring the diverse voices, perspectives, and leadership that continue to strengthen these industries every day.

About Resource Options Inc.

(ROI) is a full-service construction, design, environmental services staffing, and emergency response firm. We provide customized staffing solutions to clients servicing the built and natural environment. Recognized on five different occasions by Inc. Magazine as one of “America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies”, ROI was founded in 1998 by a group of experienced industry professionals. Our proven ability to deliver highly qualified candidates in a timely fashion has earned us the reputation as a true and lasting business partner with both clients and candidates. www.resourceoptions.com.