Her Story
About Grace
Grace Wilkins is the Chief Process Officer at E&M Concrete in Fuquay Varina, North Carolina, where she leads company-wide process improvement initiatives focused on standardizing procedures, strengthening operational efficiency, and creating clear pathways for employee training and advancement. She also serves as the Operations & Finance Lead for the company’s sister organization, E&M Fleet Service, overseeing accounts payable, payroll, invoicing, scheduling, and other essential financial and administrative functions. Wilkins entered the construction industry approximately three and a half years ago after a college connection introduced her to the company through a remote data entry opportunity. Through her strong work ethic, organization, and commitment to continuous improvement, she steadily advanced into leadership. Alongside her professional responsibilities, Wilkins is pursuing her MBA in Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies at the Walker College of Business at Appalachian State University, having previously earned her B.S.B.A. in Business Administration from Appalachian State University. She also serves as a part-time Graduate Administrative Assistant, balancing her academic responsibilities with full-time professional leadership. She considers successfully pursuing graduate education while working full time and contributing as a graduate assistant among her most notable accomplishments. Throughout her career, she credits her boss and mentor, Micke Martinez, with playing an instrumental role in her professional development by introducing her to the industry, providing extensive training, and encouraging her growth as a leader. Wilkins is passionate about operational excellence, financial management, professional development, and creating systems that enable organizations and employees to succeed. She places a strong emphasis on social awareness, professionalism, and being intentional about how one presents oneself in the workplace. Her advice to young women entering the industry is to avoid making themselves smaller to fit expectations and instead confidently make their voices heard. Beyond her professional and academic commitments, Wilkins supports E&M Concrete’s charitable initiatives, including efforts to provide affordable housing for individuals with disabilities and support animal rescue organizations. Through her leadership, community involvement, and commitment to personal growth, she continues to build a career defined by resilience, organization, and purposeful impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Grace
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of hard work, organization, continuous learning, and the guidance of strong mentors. My journey into the construction industry began through a college connection that led to a remote data entry opportunity with E&M Concrete. From there, I remained committed to learning, taking on new responsibilities, and growing within the organization. One of my proudest accomplishments has been balancing full-time work with E&M, part-time graduate assistant responsibilities, and pursuing my master’s degree. I am also incredibly grateful to my current boss and mentor, Micke Martinez, whose guidance, trust, and extensive knowledge of the concrete business have played a significant role in shaping my professional growth and success.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to never make yourself smaller to fit into a workplace or industry. Be confident in your abilities, speak up, and make your voice heard. Take initiative, ask questions, share your ideas, and do not be afraid to step into opportunities that challenge you. Your perspective and contributions have value, and you should have the confidence to take up space, advocate for yourself, and pursue the growth you deserve.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my professional and personal life are integrity, self-awareness, compassion, and service. I believe in being socially aware and intentional about how I present myself, communicate, and contribute in the workplace, while also recognizing the importance of confidence and ensuring that women do not undersell their abilities or perspectives. My educational and professional growth reflects my commitment to continuous learning and development. A significant personal loss also profoundly shaped my perspective and strengthened my appreciation for meaningful relationships, empathy, and purposeful leadership. I carry these values into my work and community involvement, particularly through my company’s charitable efforts supporting affordable housing for individuals with disabilities and organizations dedicated to animal rescue.
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