Rebecca Heustess is a certified tile installer, a lead tile setter with Grazzini Brothers & Company, an ambassador for NTCA (National Tile Contractors Association) and on the advisory board for Empowering Women in Industry. She is, in her own words, "more than just someone who gets the job done – I'm a leader." 

Heustess credits NAWIC for much of her success so far, and for supporting her journey to become, "the best leader I can be – for my company, for my team, and for anyone working alongside me."  

"NAWIC has changed everything for me," Huestess says. "It helped me find my voice, my confidence…it's pushed me to share my story, step up, and to take pride in what I've built." 

NAWIC also reignited her passion for the trade and made her "prouder than ever to be a woman in the field." 

Heustess began in the construction industry 18 years ago when she and a family member started a soft flooring business. After a few years of doing vinyl and carpet, she made her way into hardwood. "The passion I found turning "boring" surfaces into something beautiful and eye-catching led me into the tile trade. It's there I grew and thrived," Heustess says. "When I set my first tile, I knew I was where I was meant to be." 

Over the years she's faced challenges, including overcoming her own self-doubts. She's felt like she had to work harder, and longer, to prove herself to those around here. But, she says, "I've been very fortunate to have incredible teammates who never judged when I had questions. My mentors took the time to teach me. Sometimes it took a few tries!" Still, she never gave up and her team never gave up on her. 

Grazzini Brothers & Company not only doesn't give up on Heustess, but has been incredibly supportive of her journey with NAWIC. The company makes sure she's able to attend conferences and stay actively involved, including serving as the Chapter President of Dakota Prairies, the Midwest Region Chair- Tradeswomen Committee and WIC Week Chair. 

In addition, Grazzini Brothers actively commits to advancing women in construction by serving as a Platinum Annual Sponsor of NAWIC Dakota Prairies and maintaining membership in Minnesota's Association of Women Contractors (AWC). "Their continued investment in these organizations shows they're not just talking about change – they're helping make it happen," Huestess points out. "That kind of support empowers me to lead with confidence, both in the field and in the industry at large."  

The growing presence of women in the industry is exciting, Heustess says, especially because they are not just in office roles but out in the field. "Seeing more women pick up the tools and take pride in the trades is inspiring."  

For future generations of women in construction Heustess hopes for an even stronger, more visible presence in the trades. "I truly believe our attention to detail gives us a unique advantage in this industry. It's important for women to know that their career options go far beyond traditional roles in healthcare or office work – women can build. And I want to be part of showing them that they absolutely belong here." 

Not just belong, but shine, as she herself did as the only female tile installer on the team that built the Sanford Fargo Medical Center – one of the largest medical facilities in the Midwest. In 2017, their work was recognized with the Pyramid Award for Excellence in Construction by the Associated Builders and Contractors of MN/ND. "Being part of a project of that scale, and having our craftsmanship honored, was an unforgettable milestone in my career," Heustess says. 

It's a career she says she loves in an industry that is, "quite literally building the world. There's something incredibly fulfilling about knowing the spaces we create will become part of someone's story – lived in, worked in, and remembered for years to come." 

This is part of her story, one she shares not just to inspire the next generation, although she's honored to be a mentor helping the next generation find their place in the construction industry, but to encourage and uplift those already in the workforce. "There's power in showing what's possible, and I hope to keep using my voice to lead by example," Heustess says. 

As for women unsure about joining the construction industry — let go of the doubt and say yes Heustess says.  "You don't need to have it all figured out. Just say yes. Yes, I belong here. Yes, I have something to offer. Yes, I will grow, lead, and make an impact. The industry needs your perspective, your voice, and your drive. Don't wait for permission say yes – and watch what happens!" 

If you know of a NAWIC member that deserves to be recognized as a Best Person for the Job, contact us today!