Jenna Taylor

How would you describe your college experience?

Your college experience is a direct result of the effort you put into it. As a student, I immersed myself in the department, organizations, and extra-curricular activities, exposing myself to as many people as possible in the construction industry. Be involved and an active participant instead of sitting back and waiting for others to dictate the path to your future.  

When did you know that you wanted to major in a STEM discipline?

Math and science were always my strongest subjects and I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to put those innate skillsets to good use. I took pre-med courses and concrete courses before deciding I did not have the stomach for the medical profession.  Building healthcare facilities seemed like the next best option, and allows me to combine my love of construction with the healthcare industry and helping people!  

What is the most rewarding thing that you do in your job as a STEM professional?

Seeing a project built from scratch is always rewarding, but realizing the patient care that a new trauma room, Burn OR, ICU room or NICU Level III Isolation room will provide and the people they will help is truly the greatest reward. It never gets old turning over a new building or space to physicians and then visiting a month later to see space is full of staff, patients and visitors.

What would you tell a middle or high school girl about careers in STEM? 

Take the path less traveled. Combining your natural talents with a positive attitude and a desire to always keep learning will ensure you are successful, regardless of what direction your career path takes you. Every day is different, every project is different, and every team is unique.

What should middle and high school girls be doing to prepare themselves for college and a STEM careers?

Get involved with science clubs, honors classes, and other programs that challenge you and force you out of your comfort zone. Problem solving and working with teams is just as important as finding the answer on your own.

What advice do you have for teachers and counselors who are assisting students prepare for a STEM major and career?

Invite professionals from many different career paths to come in and speak. Eventually something will resonate with a student and introduce them to a field they may not have known existed, or realize what they thought they wanted to do is not everything they had envisioned. I could not imagine my life in a cubicle crunching numbers or performing surgeries all day….but I’m sure there are many others that have the same feelings towards what I do every day.

What career advice would you give to girls if you only have two minutes?

The most important thing you can put on each day is a smile. Women are naturally talented in so many ways, but I can assure you that a positive attitude and compassion will make those around you enjoy working with you. Being a woman in construction, I hear all the time…’you must have thick skin’ and I don’t think that it is the case. I treat everyone with respect and it is reciprocated. Some days work is really tough, but I love what I do and the teams I get to interact with. At the end of the day, we all know we are in it together and that the next day will be better.