In honor of Women’s History Month (which was March), we chose Markita Pickett to shine this quarter’s spotlight! Not only does she love her career but she loves the Lord! Leaning on her faith as she navigates the world of construction and claims her place in it.
Born and raised on the West Side of Chicago, Markita Pickett got her start as a laborer in 2006, at the advice of her father. Although she admits she’s faced her share of challenges along the way, the journeywoman says she wouldn’t change a thing.
Pickett told us how she found her way into a career she loves, and why one of her first jobs is the one that she’s most proud of.
How did you get into construction in the first place?
My father turned me on to it. He was a construction worker, and I’ve almost always followed in his footsteps. I didn’t like it in the beginning. For the first 90 days, I had my mouth poked out. I said, “This ain’t me.” But construction is my passion. I love it. I wouldn’t do anything else.
Interestingly, your dad suggested that you get involved in an industry that isn’t traditionally friendly to women. Did he give you any advice before you started?
He said, “this is a tough business, but you’re a tough girl.” I’m the only child my mother ever had, and even though my father didn’t raise me, he was still a part of my life. I was raised by a wonderful man, but I always followed in my dad’s footsteps. He retired from construction, and I’m going to retire from it.
What was your experience like in the beginning?
I definitely had to prove myself. I had to show that a woman can do this job as well, if not better than a man. I got some backlash here and there, but I stood my ground, and I’m still standing it. I’m here, and they’re not going to push me out.
What were some of the biggest challenges you had to face?
The toughest thing was having to prove myself. If I had to go to a different company, I had to reestablish myself and let people know that I was capable of doing the work. But I’ve been working for R. Olson Construction Company off and on since 2016, and I would never want to go anywhere else. They are one of the best companies I’ve ever worked for. They’re very organized, flexible, and considerate. They’re number one in my book.
Have things gotten better for women since you started?
Yes, they have. Women are treated more fairly. There still is a way to go, but we’ve been able to break down some barriers.
Can you tell me about a project you’ve worked on that you’re most proud of?
I helped build Rush Hospital. That was actually my first job. I met a lot of friends there, including one of my best friends, who I lost. And my grandson was born there. I visited someone there who was sick. And when I walked into that hospital knowing that I was directly involved in building a place that saves lives, it really touched my soul. It’s one of my proudest projects.
Have any women helped you along the way in your career?
When I was going to walk away [from construction], one of my good friends, Tamika Holt, encouraged me to stick with it. She was one of my mentors. When the going got tough, she wouldn’t let me give up.
What’s next for your career?
I would like to be out in the field, and still have my hands in the construction industry. But when I walk away from construction for good, I would like to take my retirement money and buy a laundromat…or laundromats [laughs].
What advice would you give young women who are interested in a career in construction?
Do it. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. The good outweighs the bad, but you have to be strong.