In the traditionally male-dominated construction industry, Misha Homara stands out as a beacon of change. At just 30 years old, she serves as the CEO of Tricore Panels in the Bay Area, a family business specializing in metal, wood, and concrete paneling for construction projects. Homara's journey to leadership exemplifies resilience, innovation, and a commitment to gender diversity in the workforce.
With women making up only 14% of the construction workforce in the U.S. and a mere 1% of chief executives in the field, Homara's ascent to the top is noteworthy. Neither she nor her father, Sean, the founder of Tricore Panels, initially envisioned a career in construction. However, circumstances led them to the industry, where they found an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Despite facing challenges and stereotypes as a young woman in a male-dominated field, Homara seized the opportunity to reshape the company's culture and workforce composition. Rising through the ranks from office manager to CEO, she implemented initiatives to empower employees, foster inclusivity, and promote collaboration within the organization.
Homara's leadership extends beyond the confines of Tricore Panels. She actively engages with industry associations and serves on the board of directors for the Silicon Valley chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction, advocating for greater opportunities for women in the field. Her dedication to mentorship and education aims to inspire the next generation of female construction professionals.
As CEO, Homara is committed to increasing the representation of women within Tricore Panels, setting a goal to achieve gender parity among staff within the next five years. Recognizing the importance of intentional efforts to promote diversity, she emphasizes the need for education, training, and community outreach to attract and retain women in construction roles.
Her vision for a more inclusive and diverse construction industry aligns with broader trends indicating a gradual increase in the representation of women in the field. Labor experts cite initiatives to remove hiring barriers, increase training opportunities, and better support women on worksites as contributing factors to this positive shift.
Beyond addressing gender disparities, Homara highlights the numerous benefits of a diverse workforce, including fewer mistakes, greater attention to detail, and improved communication styles. Her efforts underscore the value of diversity and inclusion as drivers of innovation and success in the construction industry.
As Homara continues to pioneer change and champion gender diversity in construction, her leadership serves as an inspiration to aspiring female professionals and industry leaders alike. With her determination and vision, she is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in construction.