September 2, 1999

Profile: Ann Schuessler

Name: Ann Schuessler
Age: 34
Occupation: Superintendent, Rafn Co.
Education: B.A. Real Estate Finance, Indiana University

Schuessler

On construction industry opportunities: "With the labor shortage, now is a great time for women, or anyone, to get work in construction. But even in bad times, if you do your work well, you’re going to get opportunities. Companies value dependable, good workers."

On being a woman in a non-traditional field: "I don’t like separation, as in ‘here are all the men, and over here are all the women.’ I try not to differentiate between the guys and myself because I want [gender] to be a non-issue. The best way to overcome stereotypes is to just do your job well, then people realize that it isn’t a big deal."

Ann’s tips for women in the trades:

• Have a good sense of humor. Don’t sweat the little stuff, and don’t get hung up on every small slight. Instead, keep focused on your job, and do it well.

• Be proactive in pursuing goals. No one is going to hold your hand during your career; but at the same time, most people won’t stand in your way if you take the initiative toward your own goals.

• Get a variety of experiences. Schuessler began her professional career as a project engineer in the field, and also worked as a carpenter between jobs. She varied her job titles to get the experience needed to manage an entire project.

  Other stories in Women in Construction Her career is in the bag Consrtruction management: what women really want Profile: Ann Schuessler Doan's work continues in high-tech lab Schools failing to attract women into construction Barkman: managing projects suits her perfectly

• Do a good job. Even if some people on the job have old-fashioned attitudes toward women in the construction industry, no one can argue with a job well done. Basically, people want to work with others who get the job done right, male or female.