How do you define success?

I define success as being in a position of financial and professional security that allows me the opportunity to give back to others and the community. It’s extremely rewarding to be able to help others, and I try to lead by example to instill the importance of charity and philanthropy in my children.

What do you hope to see in your industry in the next 10 years?

The construction industry is constantly evolving. Within the next 10 years, I’m hoping that increasingly sustainable methods and materials will be used, which will make construction more environmentally friendly. Hopefully, technological advances will also provide innovative tools, systems, and techniques which will make construction faster, safer, and more efficient.

What do you love most about your job?

Construction is very diverse and has many different components. I love the fact that I’m always learning! Since I started working for Hawaii LECET, I have learned about building codes, different types of construction (industrial, residential, commercial, infrastructure), the various work that different construction trade unions are responsible for, safety and compliance requirements for service, maintenance and public works construction projects, etc. I have also met many wonderful people, some of whom have taken the time to mentor me and teach me important aspects of this industry.

What are some of the biggest challenges facing your industry?

At the moment, supply chain issues and rising material costs are challenges that are affecting the construction industry. Supply chain issues are a problem since some materials are not readily available. Currently, cement is in short supply which has led to rationing here in Hawai‘i. Low inventory nationwide has led to stockpiling, which increases the already high cost of construction materials. Permitting delays and rising interest rates also lead to uncertainty and increased costs.

What are some words of advice for an exit strategy?

I like this quote by Richie Norton: “Exits are great, but it’s better to do it as a choice, not a consequence of bad moda operandi.”

What do you do for fun?

I always enjoy spending time with my family and friends. When I have time to myself, I like to golf. I find it relaxing to be outdoors in the sunshine and fresh air. Since I started golfing, my ability to focus, concentrate, and attention to detail have strengthened. I also enjoy gardening. Right now, I’m trying to grow different types of miniature teacup roses.

Describe your ideal day.

I’m always on the go, so my ideal day would start by sleeping in, followed by a breakfast of Cheetos and Coke and spend the rest of my day at home binge- watching Netflix.

What are some surprising lessons you learned in becoming a leader?

I never thought of myself as a leader, but I was able to grow into leadership positions by helping others. A few years ago, I joined Soroptimist International of Honolulu (SIH), a nonprofit organization that helps women and girls achieve economic empowerment through education. This year, as President-elect, I was responsible for service projects, which was new for me. I wasn’t sure if my first service project would be successful, but our school supply drive collected a record-breaking $6,000 in cash donations and supplies, which were donated to the Institute for Human Services. I have found that by helping others, I’m able to learn the necessary skills to become a leader and grow personally and professionally.

As you reflect back on your life and career, would you change anything personally or professionally?

My daughter recently asked me a similar question and I told her I wouldn’t change anything. Even though our family went through a period of hardship and adversity, it taught us resourcefulness, resilience and perseverance. All of us would not have achieved our level of success without the lessons gained from those experiences. However, if I could go back in time, I would honor my intuition. There are many instances in the past where I followed logic over my intuition and my intuition was always correct.