Under the Hard Hat with Shavay King

At Clark, we are proud to be made up of individuals from a variety of backgrounds and talents. Our “Under the Hard Hat” series is designed to showcase the diverse people who make up the Clark team.

To celebrate Women in Construction Week, we are excited to highlight the incredible contributions and stories of women across our organization, including the new Clark team member and operator in training, Shavay King. As a third-year apprentice, Shavay is learning the tricks of the trade and gaining the necessary skills and knowledge to advance in her career.

Where did you grow up?

I am a native Washingtonian and currently live in the Fort Totten area.

How did you get your start in the construction industry?

I joined the construction industry in 2020 and enrolled in the Operator Apprenticeship program through the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 77. I began working with Clark in August 2022.

You’re in training and learning about different types of equipment. What has that experience been like?

Since joining Clark, I’ve been focused on learning how to operate several different pieces of construction equipment.

I started out learning about the colloidal mixer, which pumps grout to a machine that installs tiebacks. From there, I transitioned to learn how to operate the drill rig for the tieback machine, which is a really interesting piece of equipment. The rig uses air and water to drill, so it can get kind of dirty when you’re working with it. I’ve enjoyed working alongside pile drivers on previous projects; they’ve taught me a great deal. As an apprentice, I’m learning something new every day.

Which piece of equipment has been the most challenging to learn to operate?

The most challenging piece of equipment I’ve worked with is the tieback machine. To safely and properly operate the machine, it has to be positioned at a certain angle while simultaneously hooked to different pieces of equipment. It can be challenging to operate in inclement weather because the machine can sink or tip over if the ground is wet. Unlike a mixer with a simple on/off switch, the tieback machine is much more complex.

Describe a typical day in your role. 

Every day we start our morning with a team meeting and a stretch and flex exercise. From there, the operator and I begin safety inspections, review what work needs to be completed, and strategize our plan of attack for the day. The work can be demanding, but it's a lot of fun, too.

What do you enjoy most about the construction industry?

I love being outside. Also, witnessing the before and after transformation where a jobsite goes from dirt lot to a completed building is amazing!

What is your favorite project you have ever worked on and why? 

I enjoyed working on the WMATA Northern Bus Garage Replacement and POD 6 Museum Support Center with Clark.

I recently started work on the new project for Inova, which is being built on the Landmark Mall redevelopment site in Alexandria, VA.

What advice do you have for women interested in building a career in the construction industry?

Just do it! Don't think you’re incapable because you are a woman. It's fun.

What is something you enjoy doing outside of work?  

When I’m not at work, I enjoy cooking ... especially on the grill. One of my favorite meals to prepare is lobster bisque.