Women Entrepreneurship Day November 19, 2021

As women supporting women, the NWIR DEI Committee would love to know your unique insight on being a woman owned roofing business.

1. Name, Title
Jennifer Grove

2. Business Name:
TORI Construction, LLC

3. Location (City and State)
Alsip, IL

4. How did you get into the roofing industry?
After several years as a construction management firm, I decided it was time to try something new. Decided that roofing appealed to my need to learn something new, so I took the state of Illinois license exam in 2019 and the rest is history.

5. What is something unique about your business – what sets you apart?
TORI Construction is not only 100% woman owned and operated, but we are family-owned business. Having a close family relationship has been important to our company culture since day one.

6. What challenges have you encountered as a woman owned business?
Getting invited to a seat at the table for sure. I have had to learn that I do not need an invitation, I make my own spot. I may be newer to the roofing industry, but I have been a part of commercial construction my whole life.

7. What advice would you give other women looking to start their own business?
Do it! Don’t let outside bias’s deter you. Construction is changing and woman owners are leaving their mark! You will find that there are so many resources and people available to help you through your growing pains. If construction is your niche don’t be afraid to go for it. Having regrets is one thing I know I will never have about having taken the roofing plunge.