International construction company Skanska has taken a significant step by launching a new program focused on assisting small businesses and bolstering the workforce. In Douglasville, Georgia, there is a pressing need for skilled labor as the construction industry continues to grow. According to the Associated Builders and Contractors, over 450,000 workers are required to meet the rising demands. Skanska's program aims to address this issue and empower local small businesses.

Skanska's Impact on Small Business Growth and Workforce

Murphy's Journey in the Construction Industry

Some might consider Virginia Murphy an unlikely CEO of Waste Water Industrial Solutions. As she herself would tell you, a lot of her work is behind walls and not immediately visible. When she walks into a room, nine times out of ten, she is the only female present. But her expertise quickly shines through. She started her business in 2017 with just five employees and has since grown to 35. Murphy's determination and skills have been key to her success.She now sees a new partnership with Skanska as a crucial opportunity to take her business to the next level. "Because of the things that Skanska has taught us, we'll be able to manage that growth better," she shared with Good Day's Lindsay Tuman.

Skanska's Excellence in Construction Leadership Program

Skanska chose Murphy's company as one of the small businesses for its Excellence in Construction Leadership Program. This program connects Skanska leadership with local construction companies, offering executive-level training and networking opportunities. Matt Frey, the vice president and account manager of Skanska USA Building, explained, "It is designed to impact that local small business, empower them to grow their forces. When they're empowered, they have the ability to reach down and bring up more workforce, and it just trickles down. It's a chain effect we're proud to lead with the small business community."The program provides valuable resources and guidance that Murphy is leveraging to expand her business and bring in more employees. Some of these employees receive skills training right on-site.

The Impact on the Community

Murphy emphasizes the importance of respecting the hard work of these employees who build America. She believes that with the support of Skanska, her business can make a significant impact on the community. As Frey stated, "Now we're changing the community, now we're changing schools, now we're changing health care facilities. The entire community starts to change, grow, and be better together."This collaborative effort between Skanska and small businesses holds the promise of filling more jobs and narrowing the gap in the workforce, ultimately leading to a more prosperous future for all.