All week we are celebrating WIC Week (Women In Construction) and will be spotlighting some of our WBE (Women Owned Businesses) Members. Today we chatted with Janet Turner, Owner of Janet Turner Engineering and asked her a few questions to share with everyone. Enjoy!
What got you started or interested in construction?
My interest in construction started while still in high school, where I tested high in aptitude for math/science and for some reason thought heavy equipment and dirt/rock were cool - so I went to college for engineering.
What types of positions/roles have you had? For how long?
Engineering drafter for about 2 - 3 years. (1997-2000)
Engineering designer for about 3 years, became a licensed engineering during this time (from the state of Oregon) (2000-2003)
Engineering project manager for another 3 years (2003-2006)
Engineering Dept. manager for 7 years (20060-2013) - during this time I also became an Owner/Principal in the firm.
Became a sole proprietor and owner of my own company in 2013, where I've been since.
What is an accomplishment you are proud of?
An accomplishment I'm proud of is when I was selected as a Portland DJC Woman of Vision in 2014, another would be leaving a large firm and opening my own company.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job/role?
Most satisfying aspect of my job/role would be being part of a team and working in a collaborative way to design and develop projects that are important to the community.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
One thing most people don't know about me, at least those not super close, is that I'm a twin - I have a twin sister who is a Registered Nurse.
What would you like to see for the future of women in construction?
For the future of Women in Construction: continued push for equality in wages/earnings/compensation/benefits!
