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Overseeing the Y’s massive construction and renovation project comes naturally for Granger project manager Alisa Platte.
Family ties introduced her to the construction business and to Granger, where her leadership skills have played a crucial role in the steady progress of the Y’s project. Following in the footsteps of her grandfather and father, both of whom worked as superintendents at Granger, she now helms construction teams across the region, serving as the point person to make sure the job gets done, and gets done well.
A project manager needs to stay positive, trust their gut, and exude confidence ― especially as a woman in what’s often considered a man’s profession, Platte says.
Women often excel at construction management, and she knows several other female project managers at Granger. Still, Platte says, clients sometimes seem surprised to see her in a leadership role. Older generations, in particular, ask if she’s an intern or assume she doesn’t know as much as a male manager.
“I always end up proving them wrong,” she said with a laugh. Women leaders bring strengths to the construction world, including intelligence, patience, and logic. They might be more willing to get input from a peer than a man and readier to listen to multiple voices, making for a strong end product, Platte said.
Women leaders in construction do have to bring a certain amount of toughness to the job and set aside emotional responses in difficult moments. Construction leaders need to exude confidence ― something women sometimes don’t feel empowered to do. In the midst of “direct” contractors and confronted by difficult decisions in stressful circumstances, ”You’ve got to be a little bit of a badass,” Platte said.
That confidence can include leaning on resources, including male peers, and not being afraid to say you don’t know an answer, she said.
With strong family ties to Granger, she’s long felt connected to the construction world and “just followed my roots” into the field. A bachelor’s degree in construction management from Ferris State University prepared her for overseeing the day to day operations of a major project such as the one at the Y, which currently takes all her attention. When working on smaller projects, she can sometimes manage several at once.
The Y project is currently on track to be completed by mid-May, Platte reported.
To other women considering pursuing leadership roles in traditionally male fields, she gives straightforward advice: Keep your head on your shoulders. Lean on your peers. Trust your gut.
“You have to be a tough cookie,” Platte said. She likes the challenge of taking on a role where some people think she doesn’t belong. Women can be as tough as they need to be, she says ― “so let’s get ‘er done!”
SPRING BREAK CAMP
What parent wouldn’t want to send their kids to Hawaii for spring break?
After a short hiatus from kids camps because of construction, the Y excitedly welcomes kiddos back for a luau-themed SPRING BREAK CAMP, March 24-27. This year, with the building not yet back at full capacity, we’re running a half-day camp. Parents may choose from morning or afternoon sessions filled with crafts, music, games, and companionship.
From palm tree pretzel treats to sea turtle crafts, the camp’s activities will put kids in an islander mood, whatever the weather. Each day will start with a sit-down craft, easing new participants into the session and helping them feel at home.
While Y camps draw many repeat-attendees, new participants will be welcomed with open arms, said Megan Hunt, Y executive program director.
The camp’s staff includes some team members assigned specifically to watch for kids who might be shy or uncomfortable around new people. The expected smaller size of the camp, which will be capped at 30 participants, will help all participants feel comfortable and at home, Hunt said.
While spring break can mean lazy days at home, it’s also a great time for kids to connect with their peers in a fun but structured way that keeps them active and creative. The Y’s day camp fills that need, Hunt said. Her own children always seem more energized and positive after day camp, and she feels good knowing she’s given them a positive experience in a safe environment.
Registration for Spring Break Camp is open now. To register or to learn more, visit the Y website at www.Jacksonymca.org or call 517.782.0537.
WHAT: YMCA Spring Break Camp
WHEN: March 24-27, 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 1-4 p.m.
WHERE: Downtown Jackson YMCA
WHO: Jackson-area kids aged 5-12
COST: $79 per week per child for Y members or $99 per week for community members
MEET ME AT THE Y
A new membership promotion at the Y gives members the chance to kick their own commitment to health up a notch, and help a friend, too.
Between now and April 30, members can invite a friend to join them for a free, one-time visit to the Y. If the friend decides to join, the member receives one month free membership.
During their free visit, the friend can use any exercise equipment or even join in on an exercise class, including a paid class.
Most people who exercise at the Y want to stay healthy, but building and maintaining good habits can be tough. When you exercise with a friend, you boost your chances of sticking with your chosen exercise, said Theresa Horne, senior director of member engagement and healthy living.
“You take that habit of being together and commit it to the Y,” she said. With a friend by your side, what might seem like a chore becomes an adventure. “It’s almost like a cheat code,” Horne said.
The “Meet me at the Y” membership promotion extends a welcoming hand to people who want to explore the Y’s many options but feel uncomfortable going in by themselves. An invitation might be just the thing they need to walk through the Y’s doors and, if that results in a new membership, the promotion turns that into a plus for everyone.
The Y is a place where friendships are made and relationships are built. What could be more natural, Horne wondered, than encouraging members to bring a friend to enjoy everything it has to offer?
For more information about the Meet me at the Y membership promotion, visit www.JacksonYMCA.org or call 517.782.0537.
SHAMROCK SHUFFLE
Strap on those lucky running shoes! The 3rd annual Shamrock Shuffle kicks off at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, and it’s not too late to register. This 5k run/walk benefits YMCA’s Strong Communities program, which makes sure the Y’s doors stay open to everyone.
The race begins at Horace Blackman Park and includes a brisk run or walk through downtown. Registration costs $30 through March 14 or $40 on race day. Kids can also sign up for free for the Little Leprechauns Kid Run, scheduled to start at noon on the 15th.
Nearly 150 runners have already registered, and we want to double that number. Don’t miss out on the fun! Visit https://runsignup.com/.../Jackson/JacksonYMCAShamrockShuffle to sign up for the race.
The Shamrock Shuffle is part of the ORS Race Series.
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