AWP Empowers and Celebrates Women in the Industry

Growing up, I was told I can do anything I wanted, as long as I had a willing heart. I was encouraged to go after my dreams and reach for the stars, and so I did. After college, I was fortunate to have found a home within Area Wide Protective. At AWP, there are no limits. If you want to grow, you can. All you need to do is work hard, dedicate yourself to safety, and never stop learning.

This past week was an extra special week to me, as I got to share in the celebration of  Women in Construction (WIC) week with my team at AWP. Inspiring stories were shared about our female protectors in the field and what these women in the traffic control industry mean to AWP. It was especially exciting to see two inspiring females featured on our social media as they shared advice for other women in our industry.

Shanelle Sellers is the Facility Manager in Lima, Ohio. Every day, Shanelle oversees the traffic control operations that our team provides in Northern Indiana, Southeast Michigan, and Northwest Ohio. Her advice for other women in the traffic control industry is to always be confident.

“You are smart, capable, and you are here for a reason. Do not let being in a predominately male industry dull your shine or quiet your voice. Someone out there is dying to hear what you have to say, don’t let them down.” – Shanelle Sellers

Mandy Parker joined the AWP team in 2012 as a Traffic Control Specialist and was quickly promoted due to her hard work and dedication to safety. Today, Mandy is the manager of the AWP Support Center, which is the heart of our centralized scheduling and dispatch for our entire footprint.

“Keep your chin up and keep giving your all, it does pay off. When I came to AWP as a TCE, I never imagined that I would be where I am today. The only limits to your potential are the ones you put on yourself.” – Mandy Parker

These women are a true inspiration to females in our industry who continue breaking molds and shattering stereotypes in a predominantly male industry.

I’m proud to work for a company that recognizes talent and skills regardless of gender – a company that provides equal opportunity to all. I tip my hat to all the ladies on Team AWP. Thank you for all you do!