Preston Companies is participating in Women in Construction (WIC) Week by showcasing some of the powerhouse women at Preston.

Women in Construction Week celebrates and promotes the role of women in the construction industry. Started by NAWIC (The National Association of Women in Construction), the first WIC Week began in 1998 and has grown and expanded each year since.

Today, Preston’s employee resource group POWER (Preston Opportunities for Women to Excel and Rise) would like to highlight Executive Assistant Heather Garza.

Tell us about your role and background at Preston.
I am an Executive Assistant for Ian McCoog at the Milpitas office. I have worked at Preston and in the construction industry for 14 years. I started out as the Receptionist, then became a Project Assistant and Senior Project Assistant.

Explain what a Project Assistant does, and what you feel is the most vital aspect you provide to ensure a successful project.
A project assistant’s job description entails a wide range of tasks that are impossible to list them all. Preparing contracts, insurance, forecasting, project planning, monitoring budgets, managing project documents, setting up meetings, and coordinating tasks and activities. The most vital aspect I provide as an Executive Assistant is being very organized, collaborating effectively with the project management teams, supporting colleagues, and maintaining positive working relationships.

It’s no secret that women dominate the Project Assistant role. Why do you think that is? Do you feel that’s a good thing, bad thing, or are you neutral? Anything you want to see change in the future for the role of Project Assistant?
I think women have typically dominated the Project Assistant role because we have been perceived as being detail-oriented, organized, nurturing, and supportive, qualities considered valuable in administrative roles. I feel men can also make great assistants, but stereotypes have hindered change in most industries. It would be great for the job title of Project Assistant, admin or receptionist, no matter what field you work in, to be recognized as the glue of their department or company. Especially in the Construction field, as we are essential to the success of our team and their projects.