March 6-12, 2022 is Women in Construction Week. We are recognizing some of the women who own and operate construction businesses, or work as construction safety professionals in the Philadelphia region’s construction industry. These women and their companies are changing the Philadelphia region, both its physical and cultural landscapes.
This week, we’re spotlighting Marie Affatato, Laborer Foreman, LF Driscoll.
How and why did you pursue a career in construction?
My story is not much different from many people. I needed a better paying job. I knew that construction paid very well so I made several phone calls. In 2002 Carson concrete gave me a shot. Dennis Hart put me on a team at Phillies Ballpark, now Citizen’s Bank Park. In 2007, I became part of the LFD (LF Driscoll) family. At Comcast 1, I learned a different side of the construction industry.
What keeps you going, or inspires you, on the jobsite?
As a laborer I am always doing something different: bulking out, patching holes or sweeping, whatever the day calls for. As an LFD laborer, I wear many hats, including public interaction. We are the front line of the company we work for.
What is one of your favorite past or current projects, and why?
My favorite or most interesting projects have been Penn Medicine projects. From the West Tower, to South Tower and South tower expansion: I have countless stories. I love to help build places that end up making an impact. For example, I think about the South Tower 9th floor clean room for Dr Carl June, a world-renowned medical researcher. His team does some amazing things with TCells. He has cured many people with leukemia.
My current job site is Penn Medicine’s Pavilion. I call it home.
Several GBCA member companies are owned by women. Click below to see a full list of GBCA members that are certified Women-Owned Business Enterprises:
About Women in Construction Week
WIC Week was founded by The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) which includes over 115 chapters across the country. NAWIC offers its members education, support, and networking to help advance their careers in construction, build their technical skills, and become leaders.
