Dawn Lowers-Davis is President and CEO of Lowers Welding & Fabrication, a family firm founded in 1973 in Santa Fe Springs, California.
Construction is part of who I am. My father founded Lowers Welding & Fabrication just months after I was born, and I grew up working alongside him.
When my dad passed away in 2010, I took over the company.
My dad’s boots were big ones to fill. As the new female CEO of a welding and fabrication firm in a male-dominated industry, there were many roadblocks and challenges. Some haven’t been easy to navigate and many I am still learning how to.
Over 14 years later, my sisters and I have continued to grow the business. It hasn’t been easy, but I have learned the importance of asking questions and learning from others to build your toolkit for success.
Seek out mentorship
The first tool in my toolbox is to build mentorship relationships.
Mentorships come in many shapes and sizes. Their value comes from learning how to approach industry challenges, sharing advice, and supporting each other as we continue to make waves.
Peer mentorships have been some of my most valuable relationships. They’ve led to engagement with other woman leaders, which helps to shape culture and break down barriers barriers.
Network relentlessly
Growing up welding alongside my dad taught me a lot, but my biggest takeaway was the importance of building connections.
Together, we cultivated lasting relationships that I still have today.
As a woman in construction, it can be hard to get your foot in the door. For me, the barrier was the assumption that I couldn’t do the work.
I knew I could, so I built up my network that led to my first opportunity to prove myself. From there, the reputation of my business led to more and more job opportunities. Sometimes it only takes one yes.
A common myth is that networking only happens at formal events. There are countless opportunities to learn, shake hands, and build connections – you just have to be proactive.
Women in construction organisations and even some general contractors offer workshops, webinars, industry events, and mentorship programs.
When I joined the National Association for Women in Construction (NAWIC) and The Beavers – an association for people in heavy engineering construction – it opened up a world of new relationships and resources.
I also took advantage of Skanska’s workshops that helped my business more competitive when bidding for work.
You can’t do everything alone
As a woman, like many women out there, I wear many hats and sometimes I have to remind myself to put down the hardhat.
A healthy work-life balance is essential. Schedule time for yourself and loved ones.
You can’t do everything alone. Being a strong leader also means knowing when to ask for help and recognising your limits.
I’m encouraged by the increasing number of women in construction who are changing the status quo by creating space for women to succeed.
There is still a long way to go, so we need to continue to pick up our toolboxes and get to work.
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