Her Story
About Gina
Gina Sheehi is a accomplished mechanical construction professional who serves as a Mechanical Estimator at American Combustion Industries, Inc. (ACI). She brings a valuable combination of field experience, technical knowledge, and estimating expertise to her role. She began her career in the construction industry in 2019 as a helper, gaining firsthand experience with the demands of mechanical construction before entering the Steamfitters Local 602 apprenticeship program. Her commitment to learning and professional development eventually led her to transition from the field into the office during her third year of the apprenticeship, where she began working as a mechanical estimator. In this role, she is able to draw on her practical understanding of the trade while applying her analytical and problem-solving abilities to estimating and project planning.
Sheehi achieved a significant milestone in 2025 when she completed the Steamfitters Local 602 apprenticeship program as the first female valedictorian in the history of the apprenticeship program. Her achievement reflects the dedication, persistence, and discipline she demonstrated throughout her training. She was also honored with the Louis J. Boland Jr. Seal of Excellence Award from the Mechanical Contractors Association (MCA), further recognizing her accomplishments and excellence within the mechanical construction field. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Sheehi remains actively involved with Steamfitters Local 602 and WEMI, an organization dedicated to supporting women working in mechanical construction. Through her career and involvement in the industry, she demonstrates the opportunities available to women who pursue technical careers and commit themselves to continued growth.
A strong influence throughout Sheehi’s career has been her mentor, a mechanic whom she deeply admires for the knowledge, guidance, and encouragement he provided. She attributes much of her motivation to the desire to honor those lessons while continuing to become the professional and person she wants to be. Sheehi approaches challenges with perseverance and resourcefulness, particularly in an industry where the physical demands can require her to find different ways to accomplish a task. Rather than allowing those challenges or being outnumbered in the field to limit her, she has learned to trust her knowledge, think creatively, speak up, and contribute with confidence. Grounded in her faith and values of God, family, and community, Sheehi remains focused on continuing to advance her career, expanding her expertise, and encouraging other women to confidently pursue their own paths in the skilled trades.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Gina
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the person I aspire to become in the future and to the mentor who has played such an important role in my journey. I have tremendous respect and appreciation for my mechanic mentor, whose guidance, knowledge, and encouragement have shaped both my career and my perspective. His belief in me motivates me to continue learning, growing, and challenging myself. I want to keep advancing in my career, reaching new milestones, and making him proud of how far I have come.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received came from my parents, who taught me to keep going, especially when times get tough. They encouraged me to put my head down, stay focused, keep pushing forward, and trust that I would eventually reach my goals. Their guidance taught me not to buckle under pressure or allow difficult circumstances to discourage me, but instead to remain persistent, resilient, and committed to seeing things through.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the mechanical construction industry is not to let the fear of being the odd one out prevent you from pursuing your goals or creating your own path. It can be intimidating to enter an industry where you may not see many people who look like you, but do not be afraid to take that first step. Believe in your abilities, embrace the opportunities in front of you, and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. You never know where that decision may lead or what opportunities may come from having the courage to move forward.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced in the mechanical construction industry has been the physical demands of the work and recognizing that I may need to approach certain tasks differently. Rather than allowing those challenges to hold me back, I learned to think creatively, find solutions, and use my knowledge and problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles. Another important part of my growth has been learning not to fear being wrong or speaking up, even when I am one of the few women in the room. I have learned to trust my expertise, ask questions, share my ideas, and contribute with confidence, regardless of being outnumbered.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are God, family, and community. My faith provides me with a strong foundation and guides how I approach challenges and opportunities. My family keeps me grounded and motivates me to continue growing, while my commitment to community reminds me of the importance of supporting others, giving back, and making a positive difference in the lives of those around me.
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