From Estimator to Changemaker: Ashley Carlson on Building Differently
Ashley Carlson, Estimator and Founder of Mac Design, joins Voices That Build for a bold and deeply personal conversation about life on the job as a neurodivergent woman in construction. In this episode, Ashley opens up about the realities of working in a male-dominated industry, from being paid $55,000 less than male peers to handling microaggressions on site and the mental toll of always having to prove herself. She talks about the challenges and advantages of ADHD, why traditional communication and tech tools often fall short, and how she’s building a company where people are allowed to make mistakes, learn, and lead differently. Ashley doesn’t hold back as she challenges outdated degree requirements, questions who really gets to lead in construction, and shares why she’s determined to make the industry better for the next generation, especially her daughter. This is a must-listen for anyone rethinking what leadership, equity, and inclusion in construction should actually look like.