2022 Women in Construction: Sandra Rubino, Project Manager at Haynes Construction Company

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? Of all the projects I have dealt with, the most challenging was the Lofts at Cargill Falls Mill. This project involved renovating multiple mill buildings dating from 1824 to 1950 into 82 residential units, 30,000 s/f of commercial /office space, common use space and a hydro plant. The design of the residential units made use of every aspect of the historic features of the buildings. Due to the extended time the mill stood vacant, structural repairs were required which involved locating used timber to match the existing to meet SHPO and NPS requirements.

When you’re not busy, what is your go to book or podcast to help you unwind? When I am not busy my favorite hobbies to help me unwind include reading and jigsaw puzzles. I read a variety of authors and types of books (romance, mystery, adventure), time periods ranging from the 1800s to the future. As for jigsaw puzzles, preference is 750 to 1000 pieces highlighting animals, scenic or holiday. The ultimate means of unwinding is spending time with my grandchildren, whether playing a game, baking cookies or reading a book to them (child’s book of course).

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? Construction is an industry of constant learning, great pleasure with a sense of accomplishment and being a team player. There can be a bit of frustration being a woman in a man’s arena. The diversity of the projects and the people you meet keeps the job interesting. If looking for a career that motivates, stretches your thinking and planning capabilities, allows you to think outside the box and brainstorm with a group of people with the same goals, then construction is the direction to look.