At Kirby-Smith Machinery Inc.’s (KSM) Odessa, Texas, branch, women are not just part of the construction industry, they’re helping reshape it. Through their dedication, growth and passion for serving customers, employees like Angelica Aguilar, Gissel Pacheco and Keisha Garcia are proving that opportunity in this field is as wide open as the West Texas landscape they call home.

The women are doing more than moving parts or processing claims — they’re supporting customers, strengthening their team and building meaningful careers. Through their voices, one message is clear: the construction industry is opening doors for those willing to step through them and reap the rewards.

Solving complex claims

For Aguilar, construction is more than a job, it’s a career built on persistence, adaptability and pride in helping others. Over her 12 years with KSM, she has steadily climbed the ranks, gaining experience in multiple roles before settling into her current position as the warranty administrator for the western region.

Aguilar’s work is detailed as she’s managing warranty claims across more than 20 manufacturers, each with its own unique requirements. She said the reward comes from knowing her work directly impacts both the company and its customers.

“Our techs go out there for a reason, to work on a machine, and we have to make sure that we have every single aspect of what was done to that machine in order for us to get paid,” explained Aguilar. “When everything comes together and the claim is successful, it feels really good knowing you helped everyone involved.”

Aguilar takes pride in being an advocate for KSM and customers relying on their machines. One recent high-value claim, where her efforts secured more than expected, stands out as a defining moment.

“Being able to share that with our team and ensure the customer was taken care of was a great feeling,” said Aguilar.

Just as meaningful to her is the environment at KSM, which she describes as both supportive and family oriented.

“The support I get is amazing,” Aguilar stated. “I never thought I would see myself in a higher position, but Kirby-Smith has faith in me and trusts me. Knowing that they value me means more than I can imagine, and that’s a big reason why I’m still here.”

Outside of work, Aguilar stays busy with her nieces and nephew, attending dance competitions and spending quality time with family. They remain her biggest motivation, inspiring her to continue growing and succeeding.

Discovering passion in the fast pace

Pacheco didn’t initially envision herself in construction, but once she stepped into it, she quickly found her place. With a background in shipping and receiving, she joined KSM a little more than a year ago and now plays a key role in keeping parts moving efficiently through the branch.

Her days are filled with receiving shipments, processing returns and ensuring technicians have what they need to service machines. It’s a job that requires focus, communication and adaptability. Pacheco enjoys every bit of it.

“I like the fast pace and dealing with all the parts and machines that we have,” commented Pacheco. “There’s always something going on, and it keeps you busy. It’s fun being in an environment where you’re constantly moving and working with different things every day.”

Pacheco also values the people she works with and the opportunities she’s been given to grow.

“Kirby-Smith is a really good company to work for,” Pacheco declared. “They give you the training you need, and when you have questions, they’re always willing to help. It makes you feel supported, and it gives you confidence to keep improving and taking on more responsibility.”

Pacheco is especially passionate about challenging the misconception that warehouse and construction roles are only for men.

“People think it’s a man’s job, but anyone can do it if they are willing to learn and put in the effort,” Pacheco emphasized. “I tell my friends not to be scared, because once you get in, you realize how much opportunity there is.”

Family plays a central role in her life, and she enjoys spending her free time with loved ones. That balance between work and home helps keep her motivated as she continues building her career.

Finding fulfillment through teamwork

For Garcia, the transition into KSM felt natural thanks to her prior warehouse experience. What’s truly made the difference are the people she has met along the way.

“As soon as I walked in, everyone greeted me and made me feel welcome,” said Garcia of her initial start with KSM. “It wasn’t just about the job — it was about the team. You could tell right away that it was a place where people actually enjoy working together.”

In her role as a warehouse associate, Garcia ensures parts are received, organized and delivered accurately. It’s work that directly supports both technicians and customers. She takes pride in knowing her efforts help keep operations running smoothly.

“The most rewarding part is when you get that ‘thank you.’ When someone comes in and says, ‘That’s exactly what I needed,’ it makes everything worth it,” reflected Garcia. “It lets you know you’re doing your job right and helping someone out at the same time.”

Garcia thrives in the energetic, team-driven environment and appreciates the variety of personalities among her coworkers.

“Everybody brings something different to the table, and I love that,” said Garcia. “You’ve got your quiet ones, your loud ones, your rambunctious ones — it makes the day go by faster. I look forward to coming to work, and not every job gives you that feeling.”

As a married mother of four, Garcia balances a busy home life with her career. Outside of work, she enjoys creating TikTok videos, cooking, gardening and staying active with her family.

Her advice to other women considering the industry reflects her own confidence and enthusiasm: “Don’t be scared. Just do it. If you can drive a car, you can drive a forklift. If you can pick up your baby, you can pick up a part. It’s all about believing in yourself and giving it a chance.”

Rewarding with many opportunities

Each of these women has seen firsthand how the industry is evolving. What was once considered a male-dominated field is becoming more inclusive, with growing opportunities for women across all roles.

Aguilar remembers a time when there were only two women at the Odessa branch. Today, the presence of women throughout the office and warehouse is much higher.

“I don’t think a lot of women realize that this isn’t just a male industry,” said Aguilar. “It’s for everybody. If more women gave it a chance, they would see how rewarding it can be and how many opportunities there really are.”

Watch the Odessa Women in Construction video: https://youtu.be/sg3bBHFOf-g

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