Here at Southeastern Equipment, we're truly fortunate to have remarkable women making a difference in every department. We recently had the pleasure of catching up with Erin Miller, Megan Laughlin, and Breanna Monter to hear their inspiring stories about being groundbreakers here at Southeastern. Join us as we dive into their journeys and discover why they find being part of our team so meaningful.
Erin Miller – Sales Support Associate
What is your current role, and what does a typical day look like?
"I'm a Sales Support Associate (SSA) at Southeastern Equipment Co., collaborating closely with salesmen on deals from inception to delivery. I assist four salesmen across Northern Ohio, handling quoting, vendor negotiations, paperwork, and troubleshooting. Mornings start with emails and catching up with salesmen to plan the day. Some days, it is smooth sailing, and other days, there are fires to put out every 5 minutes. I strive to help my salesmen succeed, and when they succeed, I succeed. That is one of the many satisfactions of my position.
What's the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is working with the people I work with, inside and outside of Southeastern. A few individuals have gone from coworkers to friends, for which I am incredibly grateful. Daily, I speak with people from all different backgrounds, but one thing we all have in common is construction. So many people in the construction industry have different stories, and I love hearing all of them. Every day, I speak to someone new and learn something new; how could it get better than that?
Do you have any advice for another woman starting in the construction industry?
As a woman, you can encounter a lot of resistance. Do not let this discourage you; let this fuel your fire. Allow the resistance to push you to do better and to be better. Don't be afraid to try something new. I didn't think that in 2018, when I started with this company as an administrative assistant, I would be here five and a half years later, working with the sales department and loving everything about heavy equipment sales. Don't be afraid to ask questions. You have to start somewhere.
Megan Laughlin – Director of HR
What is your current role, and what does a typical day look like?
I am the HR Director for Southeastern Equipment Company. There is no typical day, that's for sure! Each day is a surprise, so I have to embrace it.
What do you love most about your day?
My favorite part of my day is when someone calls me asking for help in their own development or one of their employee's development. We spend so much time focusing on negative things or problems I really enjoy helping someone further their career and development. Those conversations give me so much energy.
What's the most exciting thing about being in this industry?
I love being a part of an industry that matters, knowing that what we do makes a difference in the world. We help build schools, homes, hospitals, roads, and bridges.
What advice would you give to another woman starting in construction?
Don't be afraid to speak. As a minority in this field, you have an incredible perspective. Also, don't be afraid to apply for a promotion or volunteer for a project!
Breanna Monter – Service Writer
What is your current role, and what does a typical day look like?
My current role is as a service writer. My day typically starts by scheduling the technicians and getting them ready for the day. Throughout the day, I answer phone calls, help answer technical questions, open and close service work orders, and schedule work for the following day.
Do you have any advice for another woman starting in the construction industry?
Don't be afraid to be yourself, and always have confidence in everything you do!
What's the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is learning something new every day. All the technicians and the operations manager are knowledgeable and always willing to help further my knowledge of equipment. A great line of communication and a respectful relationship with the technicians is also a bonus!
Who has inspired you along the way?
I inspired myself. Growing up, I never thought, "I can't do this because I'm a girl." If I wanted to do something, I was going to do it. I went to trade school and college to become a diesel mechanic. People would look at me as if I shouldn't be there, but I did not let that detour me. I keep going for myself—I don't let others decide where I should be.
These are just three examples of the incredible women on our team. We’re honored to have you here, so keep up the great work!