Check out Episode 41 of Mothers In Construction Podcast - Girls Can Do Anything with Mollie Elkman, author of The House That She Built and Amanda Jewell , author of Panda the Project Manager - Builds Her First Home. Both of these ladies have authored books that encourage representation of women in the construction industry through children's literature. It’s important for us to normalize women being in our industry by showing our children it’s possible. Reading about it allows them to dream and explore endless possibilities.
Mollie Elkman is a mom and the owner and president of Group Two, a national full-service marketing partner for home builders. With a deep understanding of new home marketing and a forward-thinking approach, Mollie has helped continue to keep Group Two at the forefront of the industry for over 50 years. She has shared her thoughts with thousands across the housing industry, including business owners, builders, and sales and marketing professionals. Mollie is the author of the children's book, The House that She Built, published by NAHB Builder Books. She is passionate about proactively sharing the successes of those in housing in order to diversify and grow the number of people in the skilled trades.
Amanda Jewell is a mom of two girls, who are growing up around the construction industry and are fascinated by the home building process just like their mom. Her family has been in the home building industry and has been for over 40 years, French Brothers Homes. Amanda's father is currently building his personal home and does not have time to do many of the tasks involved, so he asked her for help. She became Panda the Project Manager. During this building process, and through the family business, Amanda has seen first-hand the challenges women face in construction, as well as the fascination little girls have with home construction.
Additionally, Amanda has a Masters in Mental Health Counseling, and am a Nationally Board Certified Counselor. She has worked with adults, children, and teens individually and facilitated group counselors for teens and adults. With a family history in construction and a background in counseling Amanda combines STEM themes with emotional and social development in children’s literature.
