Episode 204: ‘Heavy Iron, Higher Standards’ with Kait Burds
In this episode:
Christi Powell and Angela Gardner interview Kate Birds, owner of Iron Lady & Co., and a heavy civil/industrial operator, recently promoted to superintendent after previously doubting her leadership and trying to demote herself. She describes a “rebirth” of accepting her place in the industry and her femininity, and explains how Iron Lady & Co. grew from punny clothing into sponsoring women-focused events, including SheGrooms, a hands-on camp in the ski industry that expanded into lift maintenance, snowmaking, welding, and heavy equipment exposure. Kate discusses leadership dynamics on job sites, earning respect through competence, consistency, and direct communication, and navigating setbacks by seeking feedback, recognizing unhealthy work environments, and rebuilding.
Supported by: NPK
Show Notes and Links:
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
01:05 Kate’s Rebirth Story
03:59 SheGrooms and First Equipment Time
05:06 Finding Your Place in the Field
07:14 Sponsor Break MPK
08:15 Leadership Respect on Site
12:13 Setbacks and Rebuilding
15:53 Elevating Women Through Opportunity
18:39 Where to Find Kate
20:43 Final Thanks and Wrap Up
About Kait:
Snow bum turned operator, trading in winter for summer, now brings exposure and experience to female peers through Iron Lady + Co and events like SHE GROOMS
