Focused, Fearless, Female: A Conversation with Paige Perkins

“I don’t get discouraged. I get focused. I show up with top-tier service and set the tone early. If someone still isn’t on board, that’s okay!! I know what I bring to the table, and I’m not here to convince anyone. I’m here to deliver results.”

Paige Perkins recently shared her perspective on what it’s like to work in construction and paving as a woman, the daily rhythm, the challenges, and the advice she’d give to the next generation.

Paige explained that no two days ever look the same and that’s exactly why she loves it. Much of her time is spent working closely with her team to refine scopes of work so clients aren’t left guessing. “In this industry, unclear scopes can lead to big problems,” she said. “I remember being new to this world and feeling overwhelmed by all the technical language. So now, I lead with clarity and teach my team to do the same.”

From there, her days typically include prospecting new clients, hosting meetings, walking job sites, and handling a lot of behind-the-scenes problem-solving to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

Of course, being a woman in a male-dominated industry hasn’t come without its moments. Paige admitted she felt concerns when she first transitioned into the field. “I’ve been pleasantly surprised,” she said. “There have only been a few times I felt underestimated, but those moments have always pushed me.”

Instead of letting those doubts derail her, she leans into them. “I don’t get discouraged. I get focused. I show up with top-tier service and set the tone early. If someone still isn’t on board, that’s okay!! I know what I bring to the table, and I’m not here to convince anyone. I’m here to deliver results.”

When asked what she wishes more people understood about women in this field, Paige was clear: “We’re not just fitting in. We’re bringing real value to the table.”

Women, she explained, offer a unique perspective, sharp communication skills, and a level of detail and organization that elevate projects in ways this industry needs. “There’s room for all kinds of strength in this industry, and we bring a version of it that this field needs!”

Her message to the next generation of women considering the trades was just as direct: don’t wait.

“Don’t overthink. Just go for it! You don’t have to follow the traditional path to find success. This industry is full of opportunity, whether you want to be part of field work, in an office role, estimating, or management. I spent seven years in school and earned my doctorate, and yet I found my passion in an industry that didn’t require any of that. Don’t get me wrong, college can be amazing, but so can the trades!! If this kind of work speaks to you, don’t hesitate and jump in!”

Paige’s story is a reminder that the trades don’t just need people who can do the work, they need people willing to lead, elevate, and shift the conversation around what’s possible.