To mark International Women’s Day on March 8, and Women in Construction Week from March 3-9, we caught up with some of our Manitowoc colleagues across the globe. They told us of their opportunities and challenges as they advance through the lifting industry. Getting more women into the industry is crucial for its future and at Manitowoc we’re proud to have some of the brightest and the best as our valued team members.
Carina El Rkaiby
Regional sales manager
Middle East, Africa, and CIS
Dubai, UAE
“I joined Manitowoc in 2008 and started my current role in 2021. As a woman in the historically male-dominated construction industry, I've encountered challenges from outdated stereotypes. Breaking those barriers required the right attitude, knowledge, and behavior but I’ve earned the respect and credibility I have today. At the same time, the sector's complexity brings daily rewards and women offer fresh perspective that benefits and enriches projects. I advocate for greater inclusion and opportunities for women and the dynamic nature of construction keeps me engaged. Seeing the impact of the cranes I've sold fills me with pride and I am confident the industry will continue to thrive with women in leadership roles.”
Sophia Zhou
Sales administration manager
Zhangjiagang, China
“My journey with Manitowoc began in March 2011, and throughout my time here I’ve had great support. I get genuine fulfillment from the tangible impact our cranes have on the cities and communities we serve. In my opinion, women bring a lot of positive characteristics to the industry, including a meticulous eye for detail, which is so important for product quality and reliability. There are some lingering gender stereotypes, but overall, I've thrived in the industry and find it an environment where my skills are valued. My hope for the future is that more women can experience the support I have through further policies and initiatives.”
Rhea Evaristo
Customer service representative
Dubai, UAE
“My career in the industry began in 2016 as a buyer for a trading company. I then joined Manitowoc in April 2022, as a parts manager for crawler cranes. Since then, I’ve become more passionate about the learning opportunities in this sector, especially for women. I find it empowering to get right to the heart of our cranes and become an expert in their operations. For sure, we still need greater gender diversity, however, we are seeing progress and Manitowoc is a supportive employer. Women bring different perspectives that enrich the industry and foster growth and innovation. I also believe more companies should address bias in the workplace with programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
Samay Phatamavong
Yard transit crane operator
Moulins, France
“I love my job! What I enjoy most is the daily interaction with the drivers as we dispatch our cranes to customers. I’m the only woman on the team, but it’s a pleasure to work alongside my male colleagues and we have great rapport. I’ve only been in this role for 3 months but have 16 years of industry experience. To attract more women, we should focus on further improving the ergonomics of workstations in the industry which are not designed with women in mind. Manitowoc should also continue its valuable work in promoting industry careers to schools and local partners to inspire future talent.”
Jill Choo
Sales and administration manager
Singapore
"I entered the construction industry in 1994 and joined Manitowoc in December 2004. Over the years, I've seen the sector evolve and have been fortunate to receive opportunities from supportive mentors for growth and recognition. What I love most about this industry is the critical role it plays in shaping infrastructure. I truly believe women bring valuable diversity and their ability to foster warmth and enhance cohesiveness contributes to a more inclusive and collaborative environment.”
Anita Lamothe
Warehouse attendant
Moulins, France
“My background is in sales, but 8 years ago I took a training course in logistics and materials handling. This moved me into a practical, warehouse job and I love it. Doing the training course brought me many unexpected opportunities and I’ve embraced those. When I moved to my current role I thought the biggest challenge would be integrating into a team where I was the only woman. But it was an encouraging and supportive environment, and I’m a fully-embedded member of the team. My role is engaging and rewarding with so many diverse tasks and every day there is an opportunity to do something new.”
Did you know?
In the United States, more women are entering the construction sector. Most recent figures show 37% of higher education graduates entering the industry are women.
Studies show that gender-diverse workplaces are more profitable, with lower staff turnover rates and higher customer satisfaction.
Women’s impact throughout history
During WWII, women at Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company took on vital roles, donning protective gear to work on submarines, bolstering the U.S. government’s efforts during the Second World War. By January 1943, 358 women were employed, half in production tasks such as welding, painting, and machining.
In 1872, Emily Roebling assumed her husband's role as chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge when he fell ill, becoming one of the first documented women in construction. Her leadership paved the way for women in construction and she is remembered as the savior of the Brooklyn Bridge.