DHI Canada Honours Our “Women In Construction” - Michelle Hawkins

Michele Hawkins 

Contract Sales Consultant

Pinder's Security Products A Division of Allmar Inc.

Responsibilities:

Growing relationships with General Contractors, Architects & End Users to position Pinder's as a full service Contract Hardware Supplier.  I am currently writing Hardware Schedules, doing takeoffs & estimating, contacting End Users and meeting with potential new customers.   

What led you to the door and hardware industry?

I started in the industry in 2010 working for a friend who owns a Contract Hardware Company.  It was to be temporary as I was pursuing the role of Firefighter.  A car accident injured my shoulder and I found myself reconsidering my career goal.  By the time I had surgery to correct the damage, I was already 4 years into the Industry and working the inside sales & website orders.  

How many years have you been in the industry?

Celebrating 14 years in June.

What was your first job?

Office Administrator which included Purchasing, Accounts Payable, Receivables, Payroll and Shipping/Receiving.

What is your proudest professional moment?

Recently, I wrote a Hardware Schedule for a small project at a local College.  It was terrifying, exciting and an absolute sense of accomplishment to see the words "Hardware Consultant - Michele Hawkins". I am working towards my DHT so this was a very proud moment.  

What has been your biggest challenge?

I've been working on the sidelines supporting Contract Hardware Accounts for several years. It's a very different role when you are the individual driving growth for your Branch in Division 8.  I have to remind myself to focus, get the work done and be detail focused.  

Who do you consider a mentor or hero?

Gordon West, Strongbar Industries.  Gordon and his wife Pam, are personal friends who I met at the Hospital for Sick Children when my daughter was ill.  Pam & Gord belonged to a support group called  B.r.a.i.n.child.  They welcomed me into this network of parents & families of children with brain tumours.  Although my daughter had a brain injury and not a tumour, the support was like a warm hug.   Gordon hired me in 2010 and I often reach out to him for advice.  He is always a great sounding board. 

What is the best advice you ever received?

Keep your eyes on your own paper because that's where the right answers live.  

What is the best advice you never received?

Don't sell yourself short.  There is a special moment in your life where you can rise to the challenge and make choices that reflect your honest desires and not your fears.

What changes have you seen in the industry over recent years?

The evolving changes in Access Control, Intrusion Alarms & CCTV becoming more intuitive and tied into one system.  End Users are investing more time and money into a one stop solution.

What changes do you see facing our industry in the future?

We've experienced long lead times during the Pandemic.  Some areas are a struggle and getting in front of project delivery dates remains a challenge.  

Fun fact you wish to share

Recently, I had my 75 year old cedar strip sailboat refurbished.  You will find me out sailing on Georgian Bay this summer.