As Idaho’s Treasure Valley continues to experience rapid growth, the construction industry is booming to meet the increasing demand for housing and commercial developments. However, despite the economic surge, women remain significantly underrepresented in the field, making up only 11% of the workforce.

One woman defying this trend is Mary Peters, the founder of Sasquatch Contracting and Treasure Floor Covering and Designs. Nearly a decade ago, Peters started her business with a mission to raise industry standards in a state where contractors don’t need to pass a licensing exam. Her goal was to improve the professionalism and quality of construction work while supporting her local community.

Changing the Industry from Within

“I wanted to change how construction is done, and I wanted to change it in my community,” Peters explained. “We’re giving it back to the client, we’re putting control in their hands, we’re educating them and we’re asking them questions. We’re saying, ‘How do you want this done?’”

Despite the challenges, Peters has thrived in a sector dominated by men. And with her success, she’s hoping to inspire more women to take on leadership roles in the field. The industry is ripe for new talent, and organizations such as the College of Western Idaho and Idaho State University are working to introduce more women to construction through mentorship programs, trade school partnerships, and initiatives like Women in Construction Week.

Overcoming Challenges

Even with these growing efforts, Peters acknowledges that the path for women in construction can be tough. She advises young women looking to break into the field to be strong and well-prepared.

“Be strong... be strong and don’t doubt yourself,” Peters said. “Go in and be very, very well educated in what you’re doing. You have to know more than the men that are around you. That is just the reality of it.”

She continues, emphasizing that success in construction is built upon education, hands-on experience, and developing strong relationships with colleagues and clients.

A Call for More Women in Construction

Peters is passionate about seeing more women enter the field. “It’s an industry that needs more women. Eleven percent is a low number. We need more women in the industry. Let’s do it. Let’s go in strong, find a mentor, and have somebody to stand behind you and say, ‘Yep, you’re doing it right,’ and just have the willpower to keep going,” she said.

With the Treasure Valley's construction industry continuing to grow at a rapid pace, Peters hopes that this boom will lead to more women taking the leap into construction, helping to shape the future of the sector.

Looking Toward the Future

Peters encourages young women to consider a career in construction, despite the challenges. “And for any young women who want to go into the industry, I highly recommend it,” Peters said. “There’s a place for you, and there’s a great deal of opportunity.”

The path is not always easy, but with determination, mentorship, and the right support, women like Peters believe the construction industry can become a more inclusive space for future generations. As the Treasure Valley continues to develop, there’s hope that women will be a driving force in shaping the industry’s future.

Originally reported by Riley Shoemaker in Idaho News 6.