Member Highlight: Carmen Richardson

In 2009, Carmen Richardson (Local 322 – St. Paul, MN) decided working as a security guard living paycheck to paycheck was unsustainable and knew she needed a change. That is when she came across an ad from Summit Academy in Minneapolis, MN, that read Women Wear Hard Hats.

Carmen’s father was a roofer for many years, and though she knew what he did, she never got to see him in action. While her brothers got to tag along to his jobs, she never had the chance because ‘she was a girl’. When Carmen saw that Women Wear Hard Hats ad, she decided to act and enrolled at Summit Academy. Five months later, she was receiving job offers and preparing to graduate from the program.

It was tough early on for Carmen physically and mentally. “As a woman, some people didn’t think I knew what I was doing and I constantly have to prove myself even after all this time,” she shared. Fortunately, there were a couple of women on the job that helped her find her footing. “I wouldn’t be here today without them,” she claimed.

Now, after 15 years in the industry, Carmen is leading teams and running projects. “I used to have to fight to even look at the blueprints, but now I’m leading work,” she shared. 

For the past year, Carmen has loved her time with JE Dunn where she is currently working on the Minnesota Capitol State Office Building Renovation project, the largest renovation project to date on the Capitol complex. Her experience has shaped her into a strong leader and she is now determined to give back. 

Carmen is very involved in her Sisters in the Brotherhood (SIB) committee in the Twin Cities, attending many of the networking, volunteering, and group events that the organization hosts. She is also committed to maintaining a balanced life. As a dedicated gym-goer, she encourages other women in the industry to stay fit and strong. “You’ve got to condition your body to be able to do this work, especially as a woman,” she said.

Carmen on the job earlier in her career. 

Her skills, dedication and commitment have now set Carmen apart and she is being recognized for her contributions. Carmen is a finalist for the 2025 Finance and Commerce Women in Construction Awards as an outstanding tradesperson/craftswoman. She is leading on and off the job site and inspiring others and has become a mentor encouraging the next generation of women in construction.