Women in Construction Week 2019: Vickie Parken

Vickie has been with Sellen since 1999. She started her career as a warehouse worker and has since worked her way to up to Labor Foreman.  In her tenure, she’s worked on 17 projects including Russell Investment Center (formerly WaMu tower), Triple Door, and Hec Edmundson Pavilion. She is currently working on the Block 20 project, a 37-story office tower.

What drew you to the construction industry?

“As a single mom, I needed to provide for my family. The pay and the benefits offered by the construction industry created an opportunity for me to be a homeowner and care for my children.”

How long have you been with Sellen and how has your role changed over time?

“I’ve been with Sellen for 20 years. I started as a journeyman laborer. I then moved to work at the Sellen warehouse doing deliveries and records retention. After my time at the yard, I was given the opportunity to become a foreman, and I took it!” 

What do you enjoy most about your job?

“The people – I spend one-third of my life at work. The people I work with have become an extension of my family.”

 What do you enjoy most about working at Sellen?

“Sellen is like a family to me. Over the years everyone has become family – not just acquaintances, but family.”

What advice do you have for other women in the industry or interested in working in the industry?

“There are so many different types of jobs that so many people can do. Earn all of the certifications you can, learn from positive role models and build upon their experience.”

What do you find most rewarding thing about your job?

“Accomplishing your tasks and then going above and beyond for the team is very satisfying and incredibly gratifying. Enjoy what you do and do a good job.”