Bork finds lasting home in construction

For Maggie Bork, no two days at work are the same.

Bork, a project manager at Mortenson, said every project she takes on almost inevitably undergoes changes from day to day.

“I also very much enjoy the people,” said Bork, who has worked on a number of big projects, including the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. “Many of the crews that I work with have a lot of pride and passion for the work they and it just makes construction that much more rewarding.”

Bork initially wanted to pursue a career in architecture but changed her mind after taking on an internship in construction. She always knew she wanted to build things, but her counselors encouraged her to take up design. It wasn’t until the end of her college career that she was introduced to construction management.

“My path was not traditional, and I wonder if I had been a male in high school saying I wanted to build things, (if) they would have shown me more of a construction management or engineering type roles instead of directing me to design,” she said. “As I engage with elementary and middle schools now, my message is very much about looking beyond a defined gender specific role and find something that interests you.”

Bork said that one of the hardest thing to do at work is to strike a blance between her career and family and private life. “I don’t think it is something that will ever go away. Unfortunately, there are still people that don’t care about it either and give you a hard time because you have to leave by 5 p.m. to pick up your kids from day care,” she said.

Lauren Giannini, marketing coordinator at Mortenson, said that Bork also takes part in a great deal of nonprofit work. For the past five years, Bork has headed up Mortenson’s United Way campaign, organizing its corporate and team-member fundraising and volunteers.

“Maggie’s leadership on Mortenson’s annual United Way campaign is invaluable,” said Jeff Gruhn, Mortenson director of project development.