Dispatcher, South Main Maintenance Facility
Years at O&G: 2
How long have you been in the construction industry?
I only started in the construction industry two years ago when I came to work for O&G. I brought nearly 19 years of trucking experience, and I’ve learned quite a bit in the short time I’ve been here. I know that I have only begun to scratch the surface of all that is involved in construction, and I look forward to learning more about it!
Describe your role/ ”a day in the life of.”
My workday begins at 6:00am, I prepare the day’s paperwork for the drivers that Kevin Clark methodically schedules, so our Teamsters Dom Gallo and Lee Dudley, along with Paving Roller Hailey Bond (small dump) and Nick Mancini (parts) know exactly what deliveries need to be made to which job sites or other O&G locations, along with any equipment that may be returned to South Main.
I apply for the OS/OW permits when needed for hauls out of the Torrington area, which can be quite tedious, especially with our busy season right around the corner, but we always seem to get what we need from our friends in the CT DOT Office.
I also receive and record all requisitions for any and everything that our locations and/or job sites request, transfer or return. These requisitions then prompt equipment and tool moves in JD Edwards that I enter daily to ensure these items are shown at the correct physical location.
I prepare and send to our payroll department sheets that are not associated with the repair shop but still fall under South Main.
I really enjoy working with Pete Yablonski, Alan Santopietro, Kate Stakum, Jorge Formigal, Geoff Smith, and Mike Foley whenever parts are needed for their locations. I also manage all the oil samples, from South Main, Danbury and the 691-Meriden job, entering them into the MOBIL App online and adding newly acquired equipment as our fleet grows and changes with time.
And dare I do not forget…I also get to work with Carl Johnson who takes two days from his regular schedule to help with our used oil pick up.
What skills do you think are essential for success in the construction field, and how have you developed them?
I think the most important tools to be successful in the construction field are basic knowledge of it and willingness to build on that. Equally important are people skills. Whether you are working under or above someone, be respectful, be the bigger person and be a leader. There is always someone after you who is looking for guidance, so be sure to give that freely.
What’s your advice for other women looking to enter the construction industry?
My advice would be that it is not only okay to challenge yourself but it’s mandatory to grow as an employee and a person in general. The more open your mind, the more questions you ask, the more you will learn.
What’s most exciting/fulfilling about your role?
While there is a routine in daily tasks, there is always going to be that curve ball, so it’s necessary to be able to bend without breaking. Taking on new tasks is something I’ve come to expect, and I tackle anything that comes my way.
How does the company support you in your role?
My immediate supervisor, Kevin Clark, and all his knowledge and experience has been the best supporter for many of the obstacles that I face day to day here at South Main.
Additional comments from Penny:
The longer I’m here, the more I learn, and the more valuable I become.
