Her Story
About Alicia
Alicia Berzinis is a union glazier with almost 10 years of experience specializing in glass installation on buildings. Her work encompasses full installation from layout and setting up frames to installing and waterproofing, including exterior glass on high-rises and interior applications such as curtain wall storefronts, shower doors, and mirrors. She also works as an instructor for the union, where she trains the next group of apprentices and supports the future of tradeswomen and men. Berzinis entered the field after pursuing environmental biology in school and working through a temp agency and a waterproofing company before joining the union for better opportunities. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, she emphasizes persistence in learning the trade and plans to focus on outreach to encourage more women to enter the trades while advancing toward leadership roles.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Alicia
01What do you attribute your success to?
One of the biggest factors that lead me to where I am today was people telling be what I wasn’t capable of doing. Driving me to prove to myself that I am capable of anything I put my mind and effort into.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t be afraid to ask for the opportunities. The worst case scenario is you’ll be told no. Though that will show your interest towards what you would like to pursue.
You may be surprised and given those opportunities.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You are going to have hard days. You are going to get push back not everyone is going to be willing to teach you.
Stand strong, hold your head high and continue on. Know there are so many women who will support you and have an ear to lend in those moments.
The culture of the construction industry is slowly changing you can be part of that change.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
So of the greatest challenges are the same we have been facing for decade. There is a particular culture within this industry.
as a whole we are making great strides to change this dynamic and there has been some great progress made.
it’s going to take time, though we will get there.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Maintaining a positive attitude even in face of challenges while holding on to my own personal morals.
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