Reuseable Bags > Plastic Waste

At CI, we live the concept of Kaizen. Kaizen is the approach of continuous improvement & the notion that positive changes, no matter how large or small, can have a considerable impact. Kaizen reminds us that everything is a work in progress, and keeps us humble and eager to keep learning.

A small, but mighty change that we have made this year is utilizing reusable bags to deliver our string wire to job sites. We previously stacked string wire on a pallet and wrapped them with shrink wrap. This shipping method led to wires being damaged in transit, disorganization, and plastic waste that needed to be disposed of. With the introduction of reusable bags, we’ve eliminated shrink-wrap altogether. The bags sit atop wood pallets while maintaining organization and providing protection on their journey to the solar array. Once they’ve done their job safely delivering our string wire, they head back to our warehouse where they’ll begin their next journey. 

We will continue to find more environmentally friendly solutions in our day-to-day operations no matter how big or small. 

#kaizen #constructioninnovations #environment #waste #reuse #processimprovement

Women in Construction Week – 7 Questions with Mollie Reioux

To celebrate Women in Construction Week, we interviewed Production Project Executive, Mollie Reioux, and asked her 7 questions. Mollie has been with Construction Innovations for 7 years and began her career at CI as an Assistant Project Manager.

1. What’s the best thing about being a woman in the renewables industry? 

The opportunity – not only as a woman, but to be a part of an industry with such a broad future. I have always loved construction, so participating in the evolution of renewables is exciting. 

2. Did you set out to work in this industry? 

I definitely knew I wanted to be in the construction industry. It’s really satisfying to work with a team, create something tangible, and provide our clients with a quality product.

3. What did you want to be when you were a child? 

My dad was in construction and my mom was a teacher. I was inspired by them at a young age to pursue either career path. I grew up visiting job sites and watching my dad work with his crews, subs, and clients. I loved watching his builds from dirt to completion. I remember him speaking very highly of a female Project Manager he worked with and how sharp she was. This emboldened me to pursue construction. 

4. What advice do you have for women who are wanting to enter any male-dominated field? 

Be confident in your own skills and abilities. Everyone has different skillsets and that’s what makes things work. Find a company that appreciates and listens to your unique perspective. Apologize only when you’ve got something to apologize for. We all make mistakes, and that’s a part of the learning process. 

5. What is your favorite part of your job? 

Do I have to pick one thing?!  Working with the teams – both internally and externally. When people come together and focus on the common goal of successfully completing the project and the decisions are directed there it’s very rewarding.

6. What impact would you like to make in this industry? 

I would like to continue to grow and make even more room for women in the industry. There’s much more I want to do, but I can’t give away all my secrets. 

7. What concerns do you have about the solar industry?

I would like to see more US Manufacturing in the solar industry.  I feel we are too reliant on international manufacturers – it’s getting better, but there are so many more possibilities.