Build-Her, Be Heard: Creating Space for Women in Construction with Renae Sams

Apr 24

This story is part of our Skilled AF podcast series, spotlighting diverse and inspiring voices connected to the skilled trades & construction community.

The construction industry has been a launchpad for transformation for Renae Sams. Raised with limited resources, pushed out of the education system, and shaped by early loss and toxic relationships, Renae found strength, purpose, and financial independence through building.

What started as a temp job turned into a decade-long career leading mission-critical construction projects for the military and major tech companies. That experience and the barriers she faced along the way, inspired her to launch Build-Her.org, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing visibility and creating real pathways for women, especially women of color, in construction and the skilled trades. She’s also the author of Build-Her, Be Heard – a personal growth guide and journal that helps women claim their stories, reflect on their journeys, and tap into their power.

In this interview we cover:

From Chaos to Construction: Renae shares her early life story and journey, and how a temp job at an engineering firm opened the door to the world of construction

Mission Critical Builds & Military Infrastructure: From Guam to Hawaii to Phoenix, Renae reflects on the high-stakes projects that taught her how to lead.

Financial Independence = Freedom: How a career in construction helped her escape a toxic relationship, gain financial security, and reclaim control over her life.

Launching Build-Her.org: After years of seeing the same barriers for women in the field, Renae stepped up to do something about it. She shares how Build-Her was created and the community she’s cultivating.

Representation, Respect & Real Talk: We dig into cultural change and how women are still underestimated, and why representation matters at every level of the industry.

The Importance of Sharing Your Story: Why owning your journey—and sharing it—can inspire others, challenge stigma, and create powerful ripple effects.

What It Takes to Succeed: Renae reflects on the soft skills, grit, and humility needed to thrive in the industry, and offers advice for anyone considering the path.

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