Women in Construction: Alicia Brentzel
This Woman in Construction is all the way at the top!
Alicia is the President of Brex Enterprises and a wife and the mom of four kids, three dogs, and a fish.
“I’m also the chief financial officer, project administrator, business development, everything but bidding and the actual digging 😂”
We really appreciate her time for going over a few questions for us, and enlightening us on just how she does it all. #InTotalAwe
What challenges have you overcome as a women in this position?
Alicia Brentzel: Being an owner, I don’t feel I am ever taken seriously. It caused serious confidence issues in the beginning. It’s getting better after 8 years, but I still get asked how working for my husband is.
It’s just assumed I do the “books”. Now, after getting women business certified, I am able to attend events and promote our business with confidence that I have as much to do with our success as my husband.
Advice for other women looking to enter your industry? Pros and Cons?
“It didn’t help that as a woman, I felt I had to overprove myself, and was hesitant to ask for help or guidance, out of fear for looking stupid, or inexperienced. ”
AB: I entered the construction industry after being in mechanical engineering (designed sleep apnea masks) for 6 years. I knew nothing about construction and lacked major confidence. It didn’t help that as a woman, I felt I had to overprove myself, and was hesitant to ask for help or guidance, out of fear for looking stupid, or inexperienced.
However, it wasn’t until I did start asking questions, that I began to learn and gain confidence.
My biggest piece of advice is don’t be afraid to ask. You don’t have to know it all right away. There are so many helpful people out there that want to help. I’ve found that it’s better to ask for help, then pretend and look like a fool.
Describe a time when you totally kicked ass on the job:
AB: Running a business is all about getting your assed kick, and kicking ass 😂😂
How do you create a work-life balance?
AB: With being married to my coworker, 4 kids, 3 dogs, and 2 businesses, my whole life is balance.
We have built a whole system of support, from our nanny, all the way to employees who will take our kids around the shop while I work on my computer. We set designated family time to disconnect, and aren’t afraid to use a babysitter to connect as husband and wife outside of work.
The business, family, and marriage are intertwined and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Are you part of any volunteer organizations, groups, clubs, or other social events?
AB: Women in Energy Network treasurer, Association of Builders and Contractors.
In three words, how would you describe you and your friend group:
AB: Motivated. Intelligent. Caring.
What is your "self care" routine?
AB: Being productive is honestly the best thing for me. Making lists and getting things done motivates me. I enjoy working out and reading, and with 4 kids, I still savor the alone time.
What is the one thing or product that you can't recommend enough to anyone who'll listen?
AB: Athleta leggings
Follow Alicia on her adventures through construction on her Instagram ❤️