Builders at Heart: Maria Arevalo

This article is part of our series Builders at Heart, where we highlight the passions and backgrounds of the Clark team — the things that shape us — that allow us to tackle challenges head-on, solve complex problems, and build what matters. 

Meet Maria Arevalo, a carpenter apprentice for Clark Concrete currently working on the Twinbrook Quarter project and participating in the form builders apprenticeship program. Read about who has had the biggest influence on her life and what she likes best about working in construction.

Tell us about your background.

I am originally from San Juan Opico, El Salvador. I moved to the United States five years ago, and I am happily married. 

Who has had the most influence on your life and why?

My mother. She taught me that I have to work hard for what I want, and I can do anything that I set my mind to. She was always there for me in my moments of need. 

How long have you been with Clark?

Almost two years!

What made you want to pursue a career in construction?

I've always liked carpentry. Before Clark, I worked as a carpenter for homes, and I was always curious about construction and building and wanted to learned more about the process.

Tell us more about your current role.

Since I am in Clark Concrete's apprenticeship program, I do a bit of everything, from forming columns to walls to reading project plans.

What do you like most about your current role.

I like that I get to do new things, and I'm not stuck doing only one thing. 

What is your proudest accomplishment? Either personally or professionally?

Finding peace and joy in myself despite the many difficulties I have encountered throughout my life.

What is your favorite thing about working in construction?

It offers so many opportunities and allows you to create something that has a significant impact on communities.

What is your favorite thing about working at Clark?

I like everything. If you are ever stuck on something, you have the support of your team members and the company. They give you many opportunities to learn not only practical things but also theoretical ones. I learn how to do a task plus how I could potentially apply a technique beyond the immediate task.

Tell us about your experience with Clark Concrete's apprenticeship program.

As part of Clark Concrete's apprenticeship program, I have been able to expand my knowledge of carpentry and learn about different aspects of construction and engineering that I wasn't familiar with before the program. For example, we learned how to read a project plan and about the steps it takes to prepare to start a project. The knowledge helps me understand the construction process as a whole and how carpentry plays a role in it.