Breaking Barriers: How One Woman Turned Her Passion into a Six-Figure Career in Construction
Bridgette Tena, a 51-year-old roofer from Santa Fe, New Mexico, has one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, yet she couldn’t be happier. As part of the less than 10% of women working in construction in the U.S., Tena has built a successful business that brings in over $200,000 in revenue annually.
A Passion Born from Family Ties
Tena’s passion for construction was inspired by her uncle and grandfather, who were both general contractors. Although she didn’t immediately pursue a career in construction, she eventually took the leap and obtained her general contractor license during the pandemic lockdown of 2020.
From Real Estate to Roofing
Before becoming a roofer, Tena worked as a real estate broker for over a decade. However, she soon realized that she belonged outside, not in an office. She started apprenticing with a general contractor in 2016 and eventually launched her own roofing business, B. Barela Construction, in February 2021.
Overcoming Obstacles and Breaking Barriers
As a woman in a male-dominated field, Tena faced many challenges. She recalls being intimidated by the idea of working in construction, mainly because she never saw someone who looked like her in the field. However, she persevered and obtained her certification, which only took her a few weeks to complete.
Scaling Her Business
Tena’s business has grown significantly since its launch, with revenue expected to surpass $200,000 in 2024. She has also pursued specialized licenses to expand her business’ offerings, including attending a free two-week GAF Roofing Academy training program exclusively for women.
The Rewards of Being a Roofer
Tena believes that roofing is an underrated field that can provide a lot of stability and fulfillment. With the demand for roofers high due to backlogs brought on during the pandemic and supply chain issues, Tena’s business has seen significant growth. She also notes that running your own roofing business has an even greater earning potential, as you can set your prices and take on more customers.
A Typical Day on the Job
As a roofer, Tena’s typical day involves climbing up ladders and working on top of commercial buildings and homes, often at heights of 8 to 30 feet. She wears protective equipment, including a hard hat, thick leather gloves, and a safety harness, to minimize injury.
Creating an Inclusive Environment
Tena is passionate about creating an inclusive environment for women in construction. She works with a team of women, including her mother and daughter, and believes that it’s essential to let go of negative comments and focus on building a supportive community.
The Future of Roofing
With the demand for roofers expected to continue growing, Tena believes that this field can provide a lot of stability and fulfillment. As she looks to scale her business into a full-time career, Tena is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
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