In honor of WIC Week, join us as we sit down with Laura Karow.
What led you to a career in construction?
My father was an electrician, my mother owned the company. My siblings and I essentially were raised in the industry working different jobs within Gunnar Electric. From answering phones, cleaning toilets, putting materials away, or running romex through an attic on a 100 degree day, I've done it all. After going through the IBEW apprenticeship and getting my journeyman license, my brother and I both came back as electricians and eventually bought the company from my mom.
What do you find most satisfying or rewarding about your current role?
Seeing my team-members succeed at something new or taking a project and running with it is the most rewarding part of my job. It means they've been given the proper tools and training to succeed.
What do you find most satisfying or rewarding about the industry?
Seeing all the new apprentices entering our trade. We do a lot of education and career fairs to talk about careers in construction. To see someone want to enter this industry is a win.
What are your ambitions in your career? In construction?
To continue to grow a successful business. In construction? To continue being known as the best woman-owned electrical contractor in MN!
What would you say to women who are considering a career in construction?
Don't be scared of entering a career in construction. The people that I have met throughout my career from working in the field, to moving to the office- have mostly been supportive and a great group of people to work with.
What do you envision the industry looks like in 5–10 years?
Way more automation, off-site pre-fabrication, and use of technology.
How do you see the role of women evolving in the industry?
As more and more women realize there are roles for us in both the field and the office, we will be seeing more women entering this great industry.
