From Garage to General Contractor
Dawn Barnes, Founder and CEO of RGD Construction, discovered her passion for building at an early age. Inspired by her father, she spent her childhood in the garage, learning hands-on skills that would later shape her career. Despite societal expectations and skepticism from peers, she pursued her interests with determination, eventually joining her father in the field after high school instead of following a traditional college path.
Overcoming Challenges
Entering the construction field in the mid-’90s, Dawn faced resistance as one of the few women on job sites. Navigating a workplace that wasn’t always welcoming, she relied on the support of her family and gradually built a network of allies. Over time, the industry evolved, and she found other women and organizations that supported her ambitions.
Building RGD Construction
Originally specializing in drywall, RGD Construction has grown into a full-service general contracting firm. Dawn obtained her general contractor’s license in Nevada, allowing her to take on a diverse range of projects. Even with an MBA, she acknowledges that nothing fully prepares an entrepreneur for the challenges of bootstrapping a business. She describes her journey as a series of “glow and grow” moments—opportunities to learn and refine her approach.
Advocating for Women in Construction
As a single mother, Dawn recognized the financial stability that construction provided and became a strong advocate for women in the trades. She now serves as the board president of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) in Las Vegas, where she actively promotes opportunities for women, distributes scholarships, and mentors those interested in entering the field.
Dispelling Myths About Construction Careers
Many women hesitate to consider careers in construction due to misconceptions about the industry. Dawn emphasizes that construction isn’t just about physical labor—there are roles in project management, engineering, and other specialized areas. Advancements in technology, including automation and exoskeletons, have also reduced the physical demands, making the field more accessible.
Investing in the Next Generation
NAWIC plays a crucial role in introducing young people to construction careers. From high school programs to scholarship opportunities, the organization creates pathways for future professionals. Programs like the National Lego Building Competition and week-long construction camps help students explore different aspects of the industry and develop essential skills.
The Need for Skilled Labor
The construction industry is experiencing a shortage of skilled workers, making it an opportune time for individuals to enter the field. Whether through union or non-union apprenticeships, there are ample opportunities for training and career growth. Dawn stresses that prior experience isn’t necessary—just a willingness to learn and the drive to succeed.
The Role of WBEC-West in Business Growth
In addition to her construction expertise, Dawn is an active member of WBEC-West, a community that supports women-owned businesses. She found that even with an MBA, building and running a business can be isolating. WBEC-West provided her with valuable networking opportunities and a support system of fellow entrepreneurs facing similar challenges.
RGD Construction’s Impact
RGD Construction works on both residential and commercial projects, ranging from kitchen remodels to large-scale commercial improvements. The company has tackled unique challenges, such as designing solutions for weather-related wear and tear in Nevada’s harsh climate. Their expertise in sourcing innovative materials and ensuring sustainability sets them apart in the industry.
Advice for Women Entrepreneurs
Dawn’s philosophy is simple: don’t wait for a seat at the table—build your own. She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to take risks, find solutions, and push forward despite obstacles. Her journey serves as an inspiration for women looking to enter male-dominated industries and redefine what’s possible.
Connect with RGD Construction
For those interested in learning more about RGD Construction or exploring potential collaborations, visit https://rgdlv.com/ or contact Dawn’s team directly at dawn@rgdlv.com, or 702-888-3213. Listen to her full journey on Women in Motion now using this link: https://businessradiox.com/podcast/women-in-motion/challenges-opportunities/
About Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West (WBEC-West)
WBEC-West is a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a coalition of corporations, WBEs, and regionally focused women’s business organizations. As an affiliate organization, WBEC-West implements the certification standards of WBENC throughout Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam. WBENC is the largest certifier of women’s business enterprises in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs. WBENC certification is nationally recognized and accepted by more than 10,000 major corporations. We also support corporations in their efforts to include WBENC Certified WBEs in their supply chain.