Celebrating Women in Trenchless: Meet Vanessa
Celebrating Vanessa: An inspiration in the Construction Industry
In an industry that’s often dominated by men, Vanessa has carved out a space for herself, showing that the construction world is not just for the traditionally trained — it’s for anyone with passion, drive, and the courage to make a change.
Vanessa’s journey to the construction industry started with a desire for something new. Before she joined Bothar, she had been working in the hospitality industry for many years. Looking for a change, Vanessa made the leap into construction.
For Vanessa, the transition from hospitality to construction was a big one. She joined Bothar nine months ago, and she says it has been nothing short of rewarding. “It’s been the best decision I’ve made,” she shares with enthusiasm.
Vanessa works as a confined space spotter — a role that requires keen attention to safety and vigilance, ensuring that all team members are operating in a secure environment. It’s a role that is vital in the trenchless industry, and Vanessa has excelled in it. Since joining Bothar, she has also gained numerous certifications and tickets, advancing her skills and making her an even more valuable member of the team.
One of the aspects that stands out most for Vanessa is the strong sense of family she feels at Bothar. “I’m proud to call Bothar my working away family” she says. “Being part of a great team, who all work together with good ethics and respect for one another. Being greeted with happy faces” she says is the most exciting part of the job.
Despite the challenges that come with working in a male-dominated industry, Vanessa has found the environment at Bothar to be inclusive, welcoming, and supportive. Her colleagues have made her feel valued from day one, and she encourages others who might be hesitant about making a career switch to take the leap.
“I’m proud of myself for moving out of my comfort zone in the middle stage of my working career and giving something different a go. To other women who might want to enter the industry, I would say give it a try and don’t look back. You’ll love it.” She believes that it’s never too late to pursue a new path, and her own story is proof of that.
Vanessa has shown that it’s not only possible to shift careers, but it’s also possible to thrive in a completely new environment. Her journey is an inspiring example of how determination and hard work can break barriers and create new opportunities.
