Women in Construction Week: Building Strong Behind the Scenes

Tisha Hale began her journey in the construction industry 16 years ago. Today, she supports Korsmo’s teams in processing invoices and purchase orders as an Accounts Payable Accountant. In her day-to-day, she works with job sites and office teams to match purchase orders, enter invoices, audit vendor statements, and monitor transactions and coding. Of her role, she says, “I enjoy working with different teams [while] having the same goal.”

What unique strengths do women bring to construction?

A different mindset, but really, I believe this with every single individual, regardless of gender. Each person brings something different to the table, and in each new project or challenge, those differences offer a chance to shine. For me, multitasking is something I see a lot.

Describe a project you are proud of that shows what it means to “build strong.”

I’m more behind the scenes with invoices, but the closeout process on any project exemplifies “building strong.” The close-out process requires so much good communication throughout the team. There’s always a tendency to move forward and “onto the next,” but there is still quite a bit of the Finance world that goes on after the jobsite is handed over to the Owner.

Have you had any mentors, colleagues, or supporters who were key in helping you “level up”?

Yes! I have been very fortunate in my career to have different mentors, colleagues, and supporters. One of the most important mentors I’ve ever had is [Korsmo Controller] Tasheena Housman. You can have all the tools and knowledge, but it takes a great supervisor to trust that you know how to do your job and the confidence to know that if you don’t have all the answers, you will seek them. No matter how busy she is, she is ALWAYS willing to make the time to help, explain, and offer guidance.

Another huge mentor for me is [Korsmo Senior Project Accountant] Scott Hefty. Scott knows all the tips and tricks and is the first person to step in and share them. He is the epitome of a “team player.”

If you’re lucky enough to be in the graces of Tasheena and Scott, you’ll have the opportunity to do great things. They foster success by being helpful, sharing their experience, and encouraging different approaches. They believe in the team, and that is what makes a business successful, in my opinion.

In one sentence, what keeps you excited to stay and grow in construction?

My team! My team in the Finance department is the number one driver of my excitement in this industry and my desire to continue. They’re good, wholesome people and always strive to do their best for others.

What would you say to women who are considering a career in construction?

DO IT! Pursue it, and don’t let anything hold you back. If you pursue an opportunity and you don’t feel like it’s the right fit, find another team. It’s important to be heard, valued, and in a healthy workplace that offers you a chance to show your true potential.

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