Episode 182: ‘Building Bold Futures’ with Keller Hayes
In this episode:
Christi Powell and Angela Gardner welcome Keller Hayes from the Transportation and Construction Girl initiative. Keller discusses the vital role of economic sustainability for young women and describes how her programs empower them to consider careers in the construction industry. Key highlights include the large-scale impact of the Transportation and Construction Girl Day, hands-on career weeks for girls, and the importance of reaching young women early on. Keller also shares inspiring stories of girls discovering their potential in the industry and her personal journey overcoming challenges. The episode concludes with a mention of Keller's recently released books aimed at inspiring girls in construction.
Sponsored by: ConExpo
Show Notes and Links:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:49 Economic Sustainability for Women in Construction
01:55 Empowering Young Women through Career Week
03:52 Transportation and Construction Girl Day Event
07:32 Overcoming Stereotypes in the Trades
09:33 Personal Stories and Career Insights
20:17 Conclusion and Contact Information
About Keller:
Program Director, Transportation and Construction Girl™
Transportation and Construction Girl is a pioneering effort in the transportation and construction industry to fill a void in the workforce and provide sustainable careers for young women. Keller combines Career Week for GIRLs, Transportation and Construction GIRL Day, shadowing days, online video gallery, and the TCG Coloring Book to create a safe and empowering environment for young women to learn about careers. Over 6,750 girls have participated in Transportation & Construction GIRL programs.
Both U.S. Representative Diana DeGette and U.S. Representative Scott McInnis recognized Keller with a U.S. Congressional Tribute. The Tribute acknowledged: “As a result of her leadership, business women have become a more powerful force in our city and our state." July 15, 2004, was named “Keller Hayes Day in Denver” by Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper. The proclamation said, “Keller Hayes is a role model to other women, encouraging them to achieve more than they thought was possible.”
Awards/ Honors
-Top 25 Most Powerful Women – Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce
-Women in Business Advocate of the Year - Small Business Administration (SBA), Colorado & Region VIII
-Outstanding Woman in Business, Nonprofit - Denver Business Journal
