Gena Hoyt, owner of Big Dog Construction and Executive Director of BS and Beer Canada, discusses her experiences as a woman in the construction industry. She co-founded Big Dog Construction with her partner, Aron Jones, in 2012.
Big Dog Construction’s name originated from Aron’s large dogs, including Newfoundlands and a Great Pyrenees. Gena said the name became a part of their identity as they grew the company over the past 14 years.
Gena’s educational background in agriculture and business administration prepared her for running a construction company. She handles various tasks, including design work, installation, scheduling, and social media, which involves home renovation projects to transform clients’ spaces.
According to Gena, balancing her work is often a challenge, and she has to prioritize tasks daily. She enjoys meeting new clients, learning about their needs, and designing projects around their lifestyles.
As a woman in a male-dominated industry, Gena has faced challenges, including tradespeople who didn’t accept her as the boss and suppliers who were surprised to learn she owned the company.
Despite these challenges, Gena advises women to pursue careers in the trades, emphasizing the importance of confidence and self-acceptance. They believe normalizing women in the trades is essential for their success.
Gena also serves as the executive director of BS and Beer Canada, which aims to educate the builder community through monthly webinars and annual symposiums. The organization focuses on building science education and creating an inclusive environment.
The idea for BS and Beer Canada originated from a similar movement in the US, which started as an in-person meeting and later moved to Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gena and her team brought the concept to Canada, adapting it to their population and needs.
Gena’s passion for building science education led her to use social media and online platforms to share knowledge and promote the trades. Her partner’s daughter encouraged him to start filming educational content on Instagram, which has since grown into a large community.
Gena stresses the importance of creating an inclusive culture in companies to attract and retain women in the construction industry. They believe that equity, rather than just equality, is essential for allowing individuals to perform their jobs effectively, regardless of their background or abilities.
Building Science Education and Community
BS and Beer Canada’s webinars and symposiums provide a platform for builders, architects, and other industry professionals to share knowledge and learn from each other. The organization’s focus on education and community-building has helped to promote building science and create a more inclusive environment in the construction industry, which is expected to see a remodeling growth slowdown in the future.
Gena’s work with BS and Beer Canada and Big Dog Construction demonstrates her commitment to promoting building science education and supporting women in the trades. Her experiences and insights offer valuable lessons for companies looking to create a more inclusive and equitable culture.
Creating Inclusive Environments
Gena emphasizes that creating an inclusive culture is essential for attracting and retaining women in the construction industry. This involves providing equal opportunities, promoting diversity, and fostering a sense of community and belonging, much like choosing a high-quality diamond ring requires careful consideration of various factors.
By sharing her experiences and promoting building science education, Gena Hoyt is helping to create a more inclusive and equitable environment in the construction industry. The organization serves as an inspiration to women and men alike, highlighting the importance of diversity, education, and community-building in the trades.
