Today we’d like to introduce you to Marisol Arboleda-Diaz.

Hi Marisol, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Prior to joining Gables Construction Group (CGC), I was in charge of directing the successful mass manufacturing of very large home developments with numerous unique factors.

During my career, I was the first woman ever to earn the distinction of receiving the Director of the Year Award from the Latin Builders Association (LBA), where I served as a member of its Board of Directors for many years. While on the LBA’s executive board, I was vice president for seven years and also served as chairperson of the committees in charge of events, membership, and education.

I truly enjoy serving and contributing to the community. I served on the Miami-Dade County Development Process Advisory Committee (DPAC) from 2006 to 2007, where I advised the Mayor and Miami-Dade County Commissioners on matters impacting the building industry while reporting to the County Manager’s office. In 2008, I sat on the County Board for Commission for Women and in 2007 I was a nominee to serve on the Public Health Trust for Miami but I did not accept the seat.

I also had an opportunity to serve as director and board member at the Coral Gables Junior Woman’s Club and the Coral Gables Crime Watch Committee. More recently, I am on the Executive Board of Directors for the Builders Association of South Florida, a member of the National Home Builders Association (NHBA), the Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA) and a state-certified roofing contractor.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
With any successes, there are struggles and challenges along the way. There are “growing pains” as a company expands their footprint and team. Over the years, we have developed the perfect team to reflect our high standards. Our recent challenges have been similar to those of many other companies with supply chain issues.

We’ve been impressed with Gables Construction Group, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Gables Construction Group is a full-service construction firm with a focus on luxury commercial and residential development in South Florida. When customers, architects, and designers are looking for competent, honest, and high-quality service for their most ambitious projects, our team of experts are here to answer their needs.
Gables Construction Group has a senior management team with more than 35 years of total construction management expertise. We take pride in our hands-on approach and outstanding communication that is required for extraordinary real estate ventures, as are vision, discipline, and results.

With that in mind, Gables Construction Group (GCG) has built an amazing team of specialists that are committed to exceeding industry standards and expectations and offering impeccable service you can trust.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
First and foremost is my faith in God. Second are my husband and children. I’m fortunate to have an adopted father who served as my high school guidance counselor. He was an angel from above. I learned his “10 steps to success” and have trained my mind to face each day cheerfully never forgetting to smile by following these guidelines for success and the combined love of my family.

Contact Info:

• Email: priscilla@gablesconstructiongroup.com
• Website: https://www.gablesconstructiongroup.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gablesconstructiongroup

As the pandemic wanes, many women find themselves returning to work, but Marisol Arboleda-Diaz, who started a construction firm with her husband, has been on the job the entire time.

“A significant influence on our way of life and work has been caused by the pandemic. CEOs from a wide range of industries have been forced to take a step back, pivot, and, in some cases, completely rethink their company plans as a result. Introspection and advancement on both a personal and professional level were made possible.

I consider myself lucky to be able to work closely with my husband in the running of our commercial and residential construction company, Gables Construction Group, which we started together. When we got married, I said “I do” to everything, and we became one as a result. Over the years, I’ve come to realize that our church is home, and our workplace is state. We don’t combine the two…and thus far, it’s been successful for us. Working with my husband is enjoyable. It has always been a source of comfort, but it has become even more so during the pandemic.

Covid claimed the lives of two members of my family, my uncle and first cousin with whom I grew up. While I was dealing with my loss and caring for my family, the construction business experienced a major shift. When construction shortages occurred, we had to assist our staff (as well as ourselves) in adjusting to the new situation. In order to keep up with demand, we must now plan our orders months in advance and hope that the materials arrive on time. We have to manage the expectations of our clients. Moreover, we must have faith that there are no additional shortages in our firm that have not yet been identified.

With 26 years of construction experience under my belt, I’ve earned the respect of my colleagues and leaders in the business. Despite the fact that men dominate the construction industry, there are several opportunities for women in the industry, both in the office and on the job site. However, according to the Associated Builders and Contractors, the construction industry would require 650,000 workers by 2022, notwithstanding the pandemic, and women already account for only 10 percent of the workforce. Many organizations, including the National Association of Women in Construction, have stated that the gender pay gap in the construction industry is small, with women earning 99.1 percent of what men receive.

In the construction business, women’s job opportunities include, but are not limited to, hammering, crane operating, and concrete pouring. Administration, planning, design, client service, and project management are some of the other essential responsibilities of a project manager. As a result of the pandemic, new positions have been created to assist in the management of new protocols, regulatory compliance, and supply chain difficulties that have arisen.

Despite the obstacles created by the epidemic, I am comforted by the fact that our company is still thriving as we look to the future. Our leadership, the foundation my husband and I have built, and a fantastic team of professionals who have become like family to us are all factors in our success, which I credit to our team.”

This is a time for virtual community and sharing. If you would like to contribute to this ongoing narrative on the impact of the pandemic, please send an e-mail to esherberg@bizjournals.com.

Women confront particular difficulties when it comes to asserting themselves in the workplace. Success in management and leadership depends on the ability to assert one’s authority. Female leaders are more prone to apologize, add disclaimers, or be unduly careful when speaking. Some go beyond with the explanations and apologies, even when they aren’t necessary.

After working in a male-dominated industry for more than two decades, I’ve come across many instances earlier in my career where I’ve felt like my input didn’t matter, that my opinions weren’t taken seriously and that I was reluctant to speak up about issues about which I was well-versed.  I attribute my change to the three C’s: Communication, Constraints, and Confidence.

Communication: Effective communication to share your position or point of view is not a sign of insecurity. When you communicate clearly, you will quickly notice that you command more attention and respect, and you will receive more satisfactory responses. Avoid statements about “you” and instead focus on your team and how they will benefit from the conversation.

Constraints: There will always be constraints in any industry, but managing these constraints in the construction industry is highly likely in your day-to-day operations. Don’t wait for the “ideal time” to address these constraints with employees and clients. Getting ahead of issues will make your staff and clients feel more at ease with the overall process and/or project. Remove the fear of being disliked or labeled; your job is to identify constraints and develop positive solutions to help move everyone forward.

Confidence: It may not come easily, but you have to dig deep and find it. Anticipate challenges and prepare effective responses so that you know exactly what you’re talking about. You want to demonstrate to your team and clients that they can rely on you and your decision-making processes. Be well-versed in your idea so that you can defend it with confidence and facts. Know and believe in your unique abilities.

Speak clearly and don’t be afraid to express yourself. Seek mentorship, and professional assistance, and continue to educate yourself to help cement your leadership growth in the workplace.