Jacqueline Pruitt is the visionary founder and owner of Marvella Steel Placers, a standout female- and Black-owned rebar installation company in Los Angeles County. Hailing from Long Beach, Jacqueline exemplifies leadership, innovation, and resilience in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Since its founding in 2016, Marvella Steel Placers has expanded its footprint to collaborate with some of the world's largest construction companies, including Skanska, among others.
Marvella Steel Placers has played a key role in working on some of the region’s most visible and high-profile infrastructure projects, such as rebar installations at three stations along Skanska’s Purple Line Extension and three stations at the Regional Connector Transit Project. We connected with Pruitt over email for a few questions.
Q. What got you interested in the construction industry?
Jacqueline Pruitt, founder and owner, Marvella Steel PlacersMarvella Steel Placers
Q. What challenges had you faced as a woman in this traditionally male-dominant industry? How have you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced early in my career was earning respect in a male-dominated industry. Male workers often didn’t take me seriously, and there were times when they would ignore or refuse to cooperate with me simply because I was a woman. It was frustrating, but I learned to stay focused, work hard, and prove through my actions that I could do the job just as well as anyone else. Over time, this determination helped me earn their respect.
A pivotal moment in overcoming these challenges came when I attended the Skanska Small Business Boot Camp, a eight-week program where small, minority-, women- and veteran-owned firms learn different aspects of working on public works projects with Skanska. The program provided me with invaluable technical training, a chance to network with both men and women in the industry, and, most importantly, reinforced the importance of confidence in leadership. It helped me realize that confidence, combined with skill, could break down the resistance I had faced. It was empowering to see that the construction industry, though still evolving, was becoming more inclusive, and that experiences like the boot camp are part of that change.
Though the challenges I faced early on are becoming less common as the industry moves toward more inclusion and diversity in leadership roles, it’s still a journey. These changes are important, but we still have work to do to ensure women have equal opportunities for leadership and skilled roles.
Q. Where do you think women can find the most opportunity to break into concrete work with contractors?
Women can find the most opportunity in apprenticeships, mentorships, and programs focused on diversity and inclusion. Many contractors are actively seeking to diversify their teams and recognize the benefits that women bring. With more initiatives aimed at women, particularly in skilled trades like concrete work, it's a great time to enter the field. There are also more resources and mentors available to guide women into these roles, which makes it smoother to break into the industry.
Q. What was the best advice you received? In what ways did this advice help?
The best advice I received was to not take any “wooden nickels.” This means not settling for less than you’re worth. I applied this by always valuing my skills, holding firm on my rates, and knowing when to walk away from a deal if it wasn’t beneficial. It helped me build a sustainable business by ensuring I didn’t undervalue myself and my team.
Q. What advantages do you feel a female perspective lends to your job performance and success?
Having a female perspective allows me to bring a unique approach to problem-solving. Women often excel in multitasking, communication, and relationship-building, all of which are vital in construction and concrete work. One of my biggest successes was starting my own company in 2016. I’ve also been able to gain respect from clients and contractors by delivering high-quality work and building a reliable team. I attribute this to a strong work ethic, empathy, and communication skills that I bring to every job.
Q. What advice do you have for concrete contractors?
For concrete contractors, my advice is to not underestimate the power of communication and trust in your team. Building relationships with your crew, your clients, and your partners is just as important as the work itself. In addition, make sure you are managing the financials carefully and know your worth - don’t settle for less.
Q. What message do you have for the women already in the concrete industry?
For women already in the industry or looking to join the field, I’d say keep pushing forward. The journey might be tough, but the rewards are well worth it. Keep proving your value with hard work and dedication. And remember, you belong in this industry as much as anyone else. There’s room for all of us, and the more we push, the more we make space for future generations.
