Women In Industry: Part 1, Sandra Allard, Crane Technician

Q: What do you find the most motivating or exciting about working in the construction industry?

A: I’ve always loved the outdoors, and I’ve also always had a passion for heavy equipment. Working in the crane industry combines both my passions, and honestly, the view from my “office” is unbeatable.

Q: What has been the greatest challenge for you as a woman?

A: When I first started out in construction as a framer 12 years ago, there were never any women on sites. I would show up on site and get funny looks or comments here and there. Once I was able to work for a few hours, people realized that I knew what I was doing, and I quickly gained respect. I worked towards getting my tower crane ticket in 2015 by fighting tooth and nail to get seat time. A lot of crane owners and trade foreman wouldn’t let me go up in the crane to practice. Being a woman was my biggest setback because of the assumption I didn’t know how to operate heavy equipment. Eventually all the hard work paid off and in 2016 I became a fully certified tower crane operator. My passion for cranes led me to Bigfoot, where I am now a crane technician, learning to erect and dismantle cranes, as well as service and repair them.

Q: How has working at Bigfoot impacted your career?

A: Bigfoot took a chance on me when they hired me because I was the first female technician they have ever had, and first in the whole lower mainland I do believe. As you can imagine, the crane industry is a very physically demanding and high-risk job. I saw it as a great opportunity for myself, to prove that I could do anything asked of me, but also for Bigfoot, to open the door for other potential women technicians in the future. Bigfoot has given me all the opportunities to move up within the company and supplied me with the tools and guidance to do so with confidence. I work with some amazing senior technicians, and I have no doubt that one day in the near future I will become one as well.

Q: What would you say to women who are considering starting careers in construction today?

A: Construction sites can be an intimidating place. You’ll experience many different personalities on a daily basis. I think you need to have thick skin and a good sense of humour if you’re going to succeed the industry. You can’t let a few bad experiences with people deter you, because trust me, there will be battles you have to face. Just show up every day with a good attitude and a strong work ethic and you will earn the respect of your peers and coworkers.

Q: What would be your vision for the next generation of women in construction?

A: Oh, we’re going to take over! Really my vision for the next generation of women in construction is to simply end the gender stigma and stereotyping that is attached to women. Most people assume I’m a woman in a high vis vest that I’m a flagger. No disrespect to flaggers. They have a demanding job. I get frustrated when people just assume that because I’m a woman, I’m a flagger. I just hope the next generation knows that they can literally do any job they want; the sky is the limit!

The view from Sandra’s office: