Hard Hats, Higher Standards: The BuildHERS Blueprint

Episode 195-In this episode of The Build Zone Podcast, brought to your by the ABC Self Insured Group, we sit down with Ronnie Kassif and Suzanna Gal Gombos, the driving forces behind Boston BuildHERS, a company that is reshaping what leadership and opportunity look like in the construction industry. Their story isn’t just about building projects—it’s about building pathways, breaking barriers, and creating space for more women to thrive in the trades.Ronnie and Suzanna share how Boston BuildHERS was founded with a clear purpose: to elevate women in construction while delivering high-quality work that stands toe-to-toe with any firm in the industry. A major milestone in that journey has been becoming a Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certified company—a designation that not only validates their leadership but also opens doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and projects that prioritize diversity and inclusion.But as they explain, WBE certification is more than just a credential—it’s a responsibility. It means representing a broader movement, advocating for equity in hiring and contracting, and proving every day that diverse teams drive innovation and success. Ronnie and Suzanna dive into what it took to achieve certification, the challenges they faced along the way, and how that recognition has impacted their growth and credibility in a competitive market.The conversation also explores the real, on-the-ground experiences of being women in a traditionally male-dominated field. From job site dynamics to leadership expectations, they offer an honest look at the obstacles—and the progress—that define the industry today. More importantly, they highlight the importance of mentorship, visibility, and community in creating lasting change.Whether you’re in construction, workforce development, or simply interested in leadership stories that challenge the status quo, this episode delivers both inspiration and practical insight. Ronnie and Suzanna remind us that change doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built, project by project, decision by decision.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to lead with purpose while pushing an entire industry forward, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Listen to the full episode here- https://www.abcma.org/Membership/The-Build-Zone-PodcastLearn more about ABC Massachusetts visit www.abcma.orgPlease visit our sponsors:Presenting Sponsor Ryan Foye: https://www.abcma.org/Membership/ABC-Insurance-Programs/ABC-Self-Insured-Workers-Compensation-Group-SIGLightning Round Sponsor: https://attaintechnology.com/#abcmeritshopproud #abcma #thebuildzonepodcast #passion #wbe #boston #Passion #construction #building #contractor #hvac #massachusetts