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This article is one in a series of conversations with women in the construction industry. Click here for past discussions.
Liz Fong did not imagine how much technology would play a role in her career when she signed up as an apprentice in sheet metal 13 years ago.
The manager of the integration of operations at the Seattle-based mechanical entrepreneur, Macdonald-Miller Facility Solutions, said that she had planned to perform traditional fields on the field or to shop on CVC or architectural work. She has not planned the experience she has acquired in the technological aspects of industry, including software and technology management, development and coding of processes.
For his work operating the construction technology to advance the industry, as to help the transition from his business to the manufacture of paperless sheets, FONG was recently appointed innovator 2025 of the year by the National Association of Entrepreneurs in sheet metal and air conditioning.
“LIZ is an outside competition of our community which is both qualified and proactive,” said Linda Jennings, executive director of innovation, integration and learning of SMACNA. “It is a recognized authority on several technological platforms and an essential expert in the field which excels in the development of strategies which minimize the disturbances and maximize the results.”
Here, Fong speaks with the construction plunged the work she loves, why she was attracted to a career under construction and the importance of technology in the industry.
This interview was modified by Brevity and Clarity.
Construction Dive: What led you to choose the construction for your career?
LIZ FONG
Permission granted by Smacna
LIZ FONG: After initially continued the college route and finally continued to a higher education program, I finally decided not to continue on this path. However, I was still looking for a career that would allow me to build something in the long term and fulfilling. In addition, as my 1930s approached, financial security has become more a priority.
It was at this point that a friend introduced me to Oregon Tradeswomen, where I was exposed for the first time to the trades and at the idea of ​​construction as a career. I found the practical nature of work, the diversity of trades and the growth potential really attractive.
The structure of learning and the high floor are just as attractive and learning raised by unions.
The professions and the construction seemed to be a perfect adjustment, offering both the stability and the variety that I was looking for.
Why do you like to work specifically in the sheet metal industry?
The diversity of professions always called me. When I was exposed for the first time to several trades via the commercial women of Oregon, it was the variety of the sheet that led me to pursue it compared to the others.
During the 13 years that followed, he did not disappoint, but not always in the way I expected. What I did not expect was the transition to software management and technology, development or coding of processes.
My responsibilities started with the management of our model creation software, which allows users to create BIM models, their databases and associated customizations, and have since developed to influence integrations throughout the life cycle of the model data – covering the manufacturing workshop, field operations, logistics and even extension to estimation.
And now I can’t imagine doing something else. Although I am no longer practical with my job, it is a privilege to support my commercial family and to facilitate their success.
What are the projects on which you appreciated the most to work and why?
Some projects that I particularly appreciated are distinguished because of the feeling of confidence and responsibility they have given me, as well as the opportunity to develop new skills.
As an apprentice, a project that stands out is Via6 Towers in Seattle, for which I touched almost all the assemblies of praise on two 24 -storey buildings. Although far from being glamorous, the manufacturing process was specific and differs from the traditional manufacture of the conduits that I had made until that time, which made it a special experience as an first year apprentices.
Another memorable project was the Yakama Casino in Toppenish, Washington, which was my first detail project. He marked a pivotal moment in my springboard career in the use of technology in my work.
This transition allowed me to rely on my commercial experience while diving into the broader range of manufacturing processes and technical work flows, not only for sheet metal, but also for plumbing and piping trades.
As for the workflow, I really liked to contribute to our transition to the manufacture of paperless sheets. This project consisted in gathering and transforming data for various purposes, of the management of inventory and the order of materials to facilitate specific activities of the workshop station.
It was a great way for me to apply my experience with Autodesk manufacturing content, VDC and store manufacturing workflows, while exploring new areas like SQL and Powerapps. The project was both a challenge and an enriching opportunity to expand my skills while improving the overall efficiency of our team.
What advantages is there to work in construction?
One of the most rewarding aspects of work in construction is the tangible nature of the final product – whether your main tool is a hammer or a computer. It is incredibly satisfactory to see the direct impact of your efforts on a project, knowing that you have helped build something significant.
The work offers a variety, requiring a diversified set of roles and skills, and because industry is still evolving, there is always something new to learn. This maintains interesting things and helps to avoid monotony found in other areas.
In addition, construction offers stability. As a member of the union, I appreciate employment safety, competitive wages, strong advantages and a clear path for long -term progress. The structure “Learning while you win” learning is also a huge advantage, with a low barrier to the entrance that makes trades accessible to people of all ages and horizons.
What advice would you give to young women considering construction as a career?
For all those who are considering a career in construction, my advice would be to reach the opportunities that the supply of industry, even if it seems intimidating at the start. Do not leave stereotypes or obsolete perceptions preventing you from continuing the trades or limiting your understanding of construction at manual work.
With the advancement of technology and the growing security on security, there is a place for everyone in all aspects of construction, the land in the office and everything else.
Know that your unique perspective is precious and vital for the success of any industry. Diversity brings new ideas and approaches, which are essential for innovation and creative problems of problems. The construction industry offers the possibility of building a career not only fulfilling but also provides long -term financial security and growth.