Forging Her Own Path: Carly Rush’s Journey as a Leader in Construction

Carly Rush never imagined herself in a corporate office. The traditional desk job didn’t fit her energy, her drive or her desire to create something tangible. Instead, she found her calling in construction.

“I realized I didn’t fit into corporate office life,” Carly shared. “I wanted to work with my hands and make good money doing it.”

That realization led her to the Oregon Tradeswoman Pre-Apprenticeship program where she was introduced to the world of sheet metal. From the moment she built her first piece, she knew she had found her future. She joined McKinstry in 2022 and quickly demonstrated her skills and leadership, earning the role of sheet metal field foreman and becoming a member of the safety committee.

Now, Carly leads crews on high-profile projects, including her recent work as the lead field foreman for a major sheet metal crew. Colleagues and apprentices look to her as an example of excellence in leadership and craftsmanship.

“Carly Rush is an amazing example of a woman in construction paving the way for other women in the field,” said Joryn Korth. “She sets a great example by demonstrating how women in the field succeed in leadership roles, all while still bringing their authentic selves to work each day.”

Building Success, One Crew at a Time

For Carly, success isn’t just about personal achievements — it’s about building a strong, motivated team.

“I feel most successful when my team is happy and we’re getting it done,” she said. “I’ve found when your crew knows you care about them and they feel taken care of, they work safer and harder.”

Her leadership has made an impression. Brent Larson, who has worked alongside Carly, recognized her for her dedication and mentorship.

“Carly works harder than almost every other sheet metal worker I’ve worked with before,” Brent said. “She cares tremendously about the job, her role in the job, and especially the other workers — not only on our crew but in other trades too. She’s a great mentor to all the apprentices who have come through our projects. She’s serious about the work but also keeps it fun.”

WIC Week and International Women’s Day: Celebrating Impact and Expanding Career Opportunities

Carly knows that representation matters and that Women in Construction Week and International Women’s Day are more than just celebrations; they are opportunities to showcase the unique strengths women bring to the industry.

“It gives us a time to highlight the different benefits women bring to the workforce,” she said. “Our presence brings a different vibe to the jobsite that’s positive, and our different perspectives lend to new, innovative ideas.”

That presence is growing, but Carly wants to see even more progress. She hopes that as more women enter the industry, they receive the respect and recognition they deserve.

“I hope to see more women consider construction as a career because we are pretty good at this!” Carly said. “I want people to know that construction isn’t a last resort or a fallback—it’s a rewarding career that can help you become financially stable and still have time for your family.”

Breaking Stereotypes and Inspiring the Next Generation

“My apprenticeship was very rigorous, and some of the smartest people I’ve ever met work in the sheet metal industry,” she said.

That’s a message she hopes reaches more young women who might not have considered construction as an option. Her advice?

“Let your work and ethics show your value. Don’t fall into the cliques and always be willing to learn from anyone, no matter what point they are at in their career.”

That willingness to learn and a strong work ethic are what helped Carly rise into leadership. It’s also the best piece of career advice she’s ever received:

“Show up every day with a good attitude, and you can be taught everything else.”

Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Inclusion and Opportunity

Carly is proud of the work she’s doing, not just in shaping projects but in shaping the future of the industry.

Amy Cook, who has worked closely with Carly, has seen firsthand the impact she’s making.

“Carly is one of the most professional and competent foremen I’ve worked with,” Amy said. “It’s a privilege working with her.”

Carly’s journey is proof that the construction industry is changing, and she’s a driving force in that transformation. She’s not just building sheet metal structures — she’s building a legacy of hard work, leadership and opportunity for the next generation of women in construction.

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