S2 Episode 9: Transforming Construction through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: A Conversation with WSDOT Roger Millar
Welcome to the Construction DEI Talks podcast, where we explore the crucial topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion as they pertain to the construction industry. In this episode, our co-hosts Jorge Quezada, Vice President of Inclusive Diversity at Granite Construction, and Stephanie Roldan, Director of Lean Culture at Rosendin, engage in a thought-provoking conversation with the esteemed guest, Roger Millar, Secretary of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).
Roger, an experienced land use and transportation engineer, planner, and program manager, is renowned for his innovative approaches to conservation and development. Throughout his illustrious career, he has focused on planning and implementing transportation systems that not only drive economic vitality but also prioritize environmental stewardship, social equity, public health, and aesthetic quality.
In this episode, Roger begins by sharing his profound understanding of stewardship and dispelling the misconception that WSDOT’s role is solely limited to constructing roads. He reveals the monumental scope of the department’s projects, having invested over $200 billion in publicly owned infrastructure, including roads, bridges, ferries, railroads, and more. Roger emphasizes that his real responsibility lies in stewarding the public’s investments.
Drawing from his experiences as a child in an army family, Roger reflects on the transformative power of moving from place to place. He recounts the moment he stepped off a plane in Shanghai, where he felt a profound sense of difference. Discover how this upbringing cultivated his capacity to see the world through a steward’s lens and how each new location taught him valuable lessons about communication and diverse perspectives.
The conversation then delves into the fundamental role of relationships in the construction industry, highlighting WSDOT’s comprehensive diversity, equity, and inclusion program. The department strives to diversify its workforce by welcoming more women and people of color into the traditionally male-dominated construction field, ensuring that their work benefits the entire community. By acknowledging past industry missteps and embracing an inclusive future, Roger explains how Washington State can reap the tremendous benefits of a broad range of backgrounds and cultural experiences by 2050, where no majority culture is projected to exist.
Prepare to be inspired as Roger unveils WSDOT’s powerful and inclusive strategic plan, one that engages every individual and prepares the department to navigate natural disasters and shifting demographics. Discover how WSDOT’s pre-apprenticeship support programs collaborate with community colleges, labor groups, and contractors to bring men and women from diverse backgrounds into the construction trade. As a result, an impressive 45% of apprentice hours worked on WSDOT contracts are contributed by women and people of color.
As the episode concludes, Roger leaves us with three impactful calls to action: be yourself, listen to people, and educate yourself. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from Secretary Roger Millar and WSDOT as they lead the way in transforming the construction industry through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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Connect with Secretary Roger Millar and WSDOT to stay updated on their remarkable initiatives.
