Tira Doran, Detailer

What are some challenges you’ve faced in the field of construction?

[TD]: When I started in construction over a decade ago as a builder and project manager, one of the biggest challenges was being taken seriously. Being about the size of a framing nailer and having blonde hair, I didn’t exactly match the traditional picture people had in mind for someone running a jobsite. There were definitely moments early on when I had to prove I knew what I was talking about before I was fully trusted. It pushed me to be exceptionally prepared, direct, and confident in my decisions. What’s been encouraging is how much the industry has evolved since then. Over the years, I’ve seen a real shift in mindset. Women are no longer viewed as an exception. We’re recognized as skilled professionals and leaders in the field. Those early experiences sharpened me, but I’m proud to be part of an industry that continues to grow and become more inclusive.

What stands out about doing your position now in the construction industry vs prior roles?

[TD]: What stands out most about my current role as a detailer compared to my previous roles as a builder, project manager, and designer is that it’s definitely easier and cleaner, not so hard on my body, but still so rewarding and keeps me connected to the whole process. No job site travel, no manual labor, just me, my computer, my coffee, and those ever so important Teams meetings. I feel comfortable and confident in my work as a detailer because I understand how decisions in design and planning translate to the job site. The role allows me to combine technical skill with practical knowledge without the stress of constant site visits, and I enjoy seeing designs come together accurately and efficiently. I like to think of it as construction with a front-row seat without the dust and early mornings. It’s a different kind of satisfying, the kind that comes from seeing something start on paper and knowing it will actually stand tall in the real world.

What’s one thing you appreciate about stair design / construction or the industry?

[TD]: What I love about monumental stairs is that they’re both art and engineering. Every piece has to be perfectly precise, but they also need to inspire. Designing and building them requires creativity, technical skill, and collaboration across multiple disciplines. The stair industry fascinates me because it combines craftsmanship, innovation, and problem-solving in a way that’s rare in construction. It’s a field where attention to detail isn’t just appreciated, it’s essential, and seeing a complex design come together is incredibly satisfying.

What would you say to other women who aspire to join the industry?

[TD]: I would say to any woman thinking about joining the construction industry: welcome! It’s exciting to see more women discovering the love for building, designing, and problem-solving in this field. Things have changed a lot since I started, and today there’s more support, recognition, and respect for women in construction than ever before. Be confident, be curious, and don’t be afraid to speak up, because your perspective matters. And don’t worry about fitting a stereotype. You don’t have to act or look for a certain way to belong in this industry. You can be feminine and still be extremely skilled, respected, and essential on any project.

What’s a moment in your construction career that made you feel especially proud?

[TD]: One moment that made me feel especially proud in my construction career wasn’t about a single project or a monumental achievement, but a small, everyday moment during a regular workday. I reached the point where colleagues relied on my input and treated me as a go-to person for complex decisions and problem-solving. It wasn’t verbally recognized, but it was clear through their actions that my expertise mattered and that I was making an impact. That subtle acknowledgment reminded me why I love the industry and why persistence, preparation, and confidence really pay off.

What’s one misconception people have about working in construction?

[TD]: One common misconception about construction is that it’s a men-only industry or that women don’t belong. Often, people think that because construction is considered dirty and dangerous and that you have to be physically strong to succeed, it must be a men’s world. What they don’t realize is that construction includes a wide variety of roles. It’s not just about lifting heavy materials on a job site. Women bring a mix of skills, perspective, and problem-solving that make the industry stronger. We lead, collaborate, and pay attention to details in ways that make projects better. You don’t have to fit any stereotype to succeed. Being skilled, creative, and confident is what really matters, and women are proving that every day.

What drew you to work on stair projects?

[TD]: What drew me to work on stair projects was really a happy coincidence. I hadn’t planned to work in the stair industry and at first I had no experience in it. When the opportunity came up with a steel stair company, I jumped in and quickly realized how complex and fascinating stairs can be. In the past, I had done architectural stair designing, but this role gave me the chance to go much deeper, combining design with the technical side of fabrication through detailing. When the opportunity came with Synergi to work on monumental stairs, it was a perfect fit. It brought together my experience in design and my interest in the technical side of the stairs, all in one.

Nicole Dorsey, Detailing Manager

What are some challenges you’ve faced in the field of construction?

[ND]: Somehow designs keep changing but the budget and schedule never seem to!

What’s one thing you appreciate about stair design / construction or the industry?

[ND]: It’s never dull! You very quickly learn the art of solving problems, working with people, and pivoting quickly. Problems will inevitably arise but it’s being able to anticipate these early and determine solutions quickly that sets the successes apart from the failures.

What would you say to other women who aspire to join the industry?

[ND]: Do it! I’ve been fortunate to work alongside many talented women during my time in the construction industry and I’ve found they often bring a unique perspective and approach that’s incredibly valuable in this line of work. I’d love nothing more than to see more women sitting at the table and out at the jobsites!

What’s a moment in your construction career that made you feel especially proud?

[ND]: My grandfather was a structural engineer, and being able to show him my first drawing package was a particularly memorable moment. I have a hand drawn set of his framed above my desk as a reminder of that moment.

What’s one misconception people have about working in construction?

[ND]: There’s a lot more roles out there than people think! Going to school it seemed there was only a few paths but this is not the case. There’s lots of opportunities to find your niche and run with it whether you’re interested in the creative side, technical side, software, management, budgeting, getting your hands dirty out on the jobsite, or a mix of all of it.

What drew you to work on stair projects?

[ND]: There is SO much that goes into a stair. Stairs serve as a design statement, an engineering marvel, and a matter of public travel & safety. Creating a stair that achieves all three while keeping to a strict budget and schedule is no easy feat, and being able to contribute to the impressive stairs that Synergi gets involved with has been especially rewarding!

Gizelle Dolores, Accounting Manager

What are some challenges you’ve faced in the field of construction?

[GZ]: The biggest challenge when I first started was having no prior experience in the construction industry. But that didn’t hold me back—I focused on learning and adapting to new skills. My background in accounting and auditing from the hotel and airline industries gave me a strong foundation, and I worked hard to grow and succeed in this field. I’m proud to have built a career in construction finance for so many years.

What stands out about doing your position now in the construction industry vs prior roles?

[GZ]: What stands out in construction finance compared to the hotel and airline industries is how project-focused it is. Each project has its own budget, timeline, and challenges, so I’m always tracking costs, managing billing, and supporting the team. Unlike hotels and airlines, where finances are more predictable, construction requires quick problem-solving and active involvement, which makes the work dynamic and engaging.

What’s one thing you appreciate about stair design / construction or the industry?

[GZ]: I appreciate stair design and construction because it combines precision and creativity. Stairs are functional but also a key part of a building’s design, and it’s impressive how careful planning and craftsmanship make them both dependable and beautifully designed.

What would you say to other women who aspire to join the industry?

[GZ]: Don’t feel intimidated. The construction industry needs strong finance professionals, and there are plenty of opportunities to grow. Believe in your skills and stay open to learning. Your attention to detail and perspective truly make a difference.

What’s a moment in your construction career that made you feel especially proud?

[GZ]: A moment I’m proud of was joining this company and meeting its founder, Mr. Myles Admiraal. I had the opportunity to assist him and support the team in various ways. I got to experience firsthand its close-knit, values-driven culture, which is very inspiring and reflects how Synergi started.

What’s one misconception people have about working in construction?

[GZ]: A common misconception about construction is that it’s only hard physical work and only for men. In reality, it takes teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving, and women can succeed and make a real impact in this industry.

What drew you to work on stair projects?

[GZ]: What drew me to work on stair projects was the opportunity to assist my team and be part of a “one team” approach. I enjoy supporting everyone and contributing from an accounting perspective, helping ensure the projects run smoothly and successfully.

Posted by Synergi LLC on March 6th, 2026