So tell us, Tariana Boyle, Why Construction?

When I was younger my grandmother owned the building that we lived in.  Seeing her doing work around her own property inspired me to want to get involved in the trades.  I would always jump in and help her.  Not only did I help her in her garden, but I would also help her fix cabinets and lay tile down on the floor.

What aspect of the construction field are you involved in?

I am really interested in carpentry, but as of right now, I am a laborer.  The good thing is that as a laborer, there are aspects of carpentry that I can tap into as well.  Laborers can do many tasks and assist many of the other trades.  By being a laborer, I feel like I am getting the best of both worlds.

What are your roles and responsibilities as a laborer?

I am a General Construction Laborer.  There are different types of laborers for each area of construction such as concrete laborers, drywall laborers, etc.  Specifically, my job is to maintain the site by making sure that there are no hazards or hazardous debris.  Sometimes, I load and unload trucks, fix things and assemble things.  My goal is to make sure that the construction site is safe and clean for myself and my co-workers.

The Construction field can be very demanding physically. What do you do to maintain your fitness and mental well-being to do the job?

I work out and make sure that I eat nutritious meals.  Also, I make sure I get enough sleep.  Sleep is very important.  Construction can be mentally exhausting because it’s important to stay alert to be on top of things. 

As a first-year apprentice, can you share your most memorable moment that symbolizes why you went into construction?

I had the experience of taking apart and putting back together a construction trailer.  It was at that moment that I realized that just because I would be labeled as a general construction laborer, I could still do meaningful work.  We basically took the entire trailer apart, moved it, and then put it back together, stairs first so that it would be balanced.

Five years from now, do you see yourself going in another direction in the construction field?

Honestly, I’m not sure.  I feel like even though you set dreams and goals for yourself God always has another plan.  I am not sure if I just want to be a carpenter now or just stay a laborer, but I do want to build my own house one day.  That’s the main goal.

Do you have any mentors or experienced professionals who have played a role in your development?

The first person is Trista Bonds, who was my instructor at Chicago Women in Trade.  She basically just was always positive and patient with me and my classmates, especially during Covid. 

The second person was O’Neal Guy who told me about Ms. Lafrancis Ivy, From Communities Empowered Through Construction (CEC).  LaFrancis Ivy helped me through this whole process to get me where I am currently.  Also, Cornell Barnett, was my instructor for my last pre-apprenticeship program.  He gave me a lot of information which I am so grateful for.  Last, but not least, Tajuana was the first person I met on the site.  She is a journeywoman who helped me a lot when I got started.

If you were to write a book, what would the title be?

My book would be entitled “ Strong. The Power to Keep Going!”  You must be mentally strong to be a woman in construction.

Where do you draw your inspiration to stay strong?

My grandmother for sure and my son.  I often think about how strong she was, and I try to channel that energy.  I often think about how I want to give my son a better life than I had and to be able to show him things that I have never seen.

Thank you, Tariana Boyle, and congratulations for being this issue’s Face of B/ACE.

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