37 Issue 4 Winter Edition 2017 UPWORD BUILDING HER STORY SERIES: TRACI CLUFF C reative thinker and adventure-seeker Traci Cluff began cultivating a deep connection with the art of construction decades before becoming a red seal carpenter and, later, project management student. From a very young age, building and handiwork were naturally intertwined with her family’s story, as her dad grew up in a house his dad built, and the two of them often undertook projects together. “I’ve always been driven by creativity – constantly drawing or crafting something,” says Cluff, who joined the woodworking program at 4-H, a mentorship organization that pairs youth with volunteer leaders and develops various skills through collaborative projects and hands-on activities. After a bit of adventure that had Cluff all over the world, including working in a mine and backpacking through Mexico, she decided to explore her fascination with construction and enrolled in the pre-employment carpentry program at Red River College. She soon learned that with new careers paths, come new hurdles. The high level of math the industry demanded proved to be difficult for right-brained Cluff, who loves carpentry for its creative and hands-on components. She recalls having to work much harder than some of her mathematically-gifted peers. “Starting out from square one was very hard and I was scared to admit that I didn’t really know anything about anything,” she recalls, attributing her success to tenacity and diligence. “Everyone has their own unique skill sets,” she explains, “and sometimes being strong isn’t about what you can lift. If (you’re) willing to work hard, be dedicated and stay focused, everyone should be given an opportunity and be recognized for their contributions.” Cluff’s employer, Bockstael Construction Limited, has done a remarkable job recruiting, supporting and encouraging women in the field. “One of the things I love about my work environment is that expectations are equal for both women and men – we don’t get special treatment, we’re all part of a team and there’s a strong sense of collaboration and unity,” she says. “We welcomed Traci to Bockstael several years ago as an apprentice,” recalls President and CEO John Bockstael. “She was paired with a mentor in her earlier days of employment and we encouraged and tracked her progress through all levels of apprenticeship.” Bockstael explains. Unfortunately, a neck injury two years ago and subsequent reoccurring injury this past year has prevented her from resuming on-site duties. Although Cluff initially had doubts about the future, she transformed the negative incident into an opportunity, avidly pursuing her passion for project management. With the support of her employer, she enrolled in courses working towards a certificate in project management while assisting with administrative tasks at the company office. “We further encourage post-secondary or supplemental training to enhance skills, and we support it financially,” Bockstael says, adding the company also supports Cluff’s participation in industry events, including serving on Manitoba Women in Construction’s Trades Outreach Committee. Cluff believes that mentorship plays a pivotal role in success and accredits much of her achievements to support from her employer and colleagues, and motivation and guidance from Manitoba Women in Construction. “I’m always interested in doing anything I can to encourage other women to build careers in construction,” says Cluff.