Employee Exclusive – Get to Know Marni Goodrich

1. You’ve worked at Yearout Mechanical for over 2 decades. What has kept you motivated and engaged all this time?

The amazing, talented, and smart individuals at Yearout and in the construction industry motivate me and keep it engaging. The best people work in construction! It is so inspiring to work with problems solvers, and construction is the best place to find problem solvers.

2. How has your transition from Director of Business Operations at Yearout to Manager of Risk Management at Legence changed your perspective on leadership?

It definitely takes a wider lens and broadens my perspective. Change can be challenging, but without change, none of us would be here, working so hard to move our company forward and enrich our employees’ lives. I appreciate all opportunities to serve, learn, and grow.

3. What skills do you think are most critical for employees looking to grow into leadership roles in the mechanical contracting industry?

Good leaders work hard to become good leaders. Leadership skills that are most critical are integrity, empathy, listening (really hearing what people are saying), and empowerment of others. Seek mentors and opportunities to develop and support your goals at work and in your life. If you work on growing yourself in these areas, you will grow into a great leader.  

4. What progress have you seen in creating more opportunities for women in construction, and what challenges still need to be addressed?

Each year, the numbers of women in the construction industry continues to grow, slowly, but growth is growth. There have been so many trailblazing women in construction that have helped to open the door of opportunity for all of us. The amazing stories of women in construction coming into the skilled trades, engineering, or administrative roles and finding their passion in construction are so inspiring. Changing mindsets and stereotypes is always challenging and we continue to address this every day in construction. We need to continue developing our skills and using our voice, so that we are heard in the construction industry. What women bring to this industry is invaluable and with our collective and continued efforts, we will continue to open doors for those that come after us.  

5. What’s your spirit animal and why?  

Hmmm, that is an interesting question that I have never really thought about. I would have to go with a dolphin. I love water, even though I live in the high desert, I like to be with others, and I can be a bit ornery and loud. 😊