Builders Exchange of Michigan: How did you earn your first dollar?
Camille Reed: Cleancore Services LLC started out as a carpet cleaning service in 2009. The first dollar we made came from a carpet cleaning project for a small nail shop.
BX: What drew you to the construction industry?
CR: It started from investing in residential real estate. Buying and rehabilitating properties is how we grew into the construction industry.
BX: What does a typical day look like on the job for you?
CR: First thing at 6:30 AM, I am following up on emails, by 7:00 I’m in morning meetings and project check-ins. By about 8:30, I’m on job site tours, then meetings for upcoming projects by 10:30. After lunch and a short walk, I’m on to marketing and project meetings for the remainder of the afternoon.
BX: What’s an exciting project that you’re working on?
CR: I’m very excited to be working on the improvements to Rosa Park Circle in Grand Rapids, Michigan!
BX: What’s the best career advice you’ve ever heard?
CR: Decide what you want and go after it, and understand that it will come with sacrifice. You are only as good as your team.
BX: What makes Cleancore Services special?
CR: Our painting division offers a hands-off approach to our commercial maintenance service; from the quality control audits to the finished product. This is a very efficient and cost-effective way for our clients to maintain the cosmetic aspects of their business image.
BX: What were your goals when you began your position at Cleancore Services? How have you achieved them?
CR: My goal was to build this company from the ground up into a successful business. We have an awesome team that has helped make this possible and many great relationships throughout the area.
BX: What challenges have you overcome and what experiences have you had to get to where you are today?
CR: The challenge of being the only woman on a walk-through. I want to see more women taking up space in the construction industry. I had to ask a lot of questions to get to where I am today, and I didn’t stop once when I was told no!
BX: What advice would you give to other women who would like to go into the same career field you’ve chosen?
CR: Stand strong on your word and don’t give up. I’d recommend joining professional organizations like NAWIC or seek out programs like Project Accelerate. There are tons of courses and programs that expose women to the construction field through education and training.
BX: What can other members of the construction community do to encourage women to participate in the construction industry?
CR: Offer more apprenticeship programs, mentorship programs, and extend Women in Construction week.
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