Switching Gears: from Fear to Confidence Women in Construction Week 2026
Ady Bollinger’s father gave her the confidence to pursue her goal of being a heavy equipment mechanic, breaking the stereotype that the construction industry is only for men. Now, with graduation around the corner, Ady is close to earning the qualifications she needs to be a professional mechanic. And it’s not just her dad in her corner anymore. She has a team of women working alongside her.
Ady – a student at Carroll County Career and Technology Center – is currently a mechanic intern at Gaines and Company. She anticipates graduating this Spring and wants to find a company that she can stay with long-term.
“I like the challenge and variety that this work brings, and I know I have the confidence to get it done. But there are a lot of guys in the field,” said Ady, who instantaneously made friends with the only other girl in her class. “I love having a female friend who understands.”
Females are not sparse at Gaines and Company. In fact, you will find women working throughout our Maryland and North Carolina offices, shops, and job sites.
In fact, Brandy Smith started with us over two years ago when she was looking for an opportunity to better herself. Since then, she has grown her job into a career, continually advancing her knowledge and seamlessly tracking and maintaining about 400 pieces of equipment and over 150 vehicles as our Equipment Specialist.
“Brandy is essential to our team. She – quite literally – keeps our wheels moving,” said Safety Director Dominic Pope, who works closely with Brandy on DOT inspections and compliance.
“When people think ‘construction’, they likely think ‘men’. But behind the scenes, there are a lot of females in the office and field working just as hard, doing a job needed to make the business successful,” said Brandy.
Like Ady, Brandy has a close friend and mentor at work.
“Anytime I have a question or need guidance, Eileen [Brandy’s mentor] is always there to help,” said Brandy. “It is good to have another female in the industry as passionate about her work as I am.”
What advice do Ady and Brandy have for other females considering the construction industry?
“The industry is dominated by men. When you find a company like Gaines that offers equal opportunity, you can make a career for yourself. If you work hard, anything can be done,” said Brandy.
Ady added, “Don’t be scared to do it. I was so scared, but I told myself that I’ll be fine. And here I am doing it, and I’m fine. I’m really enjoying it!”
Thanks to all the ladies who have impacted our industry-leading site development work – from interns to veterans throughout our offices and job sites. We recognize your contributions for Women in Construction Week and appreciate your dedication all year long!
Featuring just some of the amazing women excelling behind the scenes at Gaines & Company
Gaines and Company is a full-service grading and excavation company with offices in Maryland and North Carolina. The organization has over 70 years of experience in underground utilities, grading and excavating, sediment and erosion controls, and road work. Gaines and Company delivers safe, reliable, turnkey site development services in Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C., on time and within budget.
