The Best Home Builders for First-Time Buyers
Women in Construction Week is a time to celebrate the women who dedicate their careers to building our homes and communities from the ground up.
At M/I Homes, women play vital roles across our construction teams, and this week gives us a special opportunity to highlight a few of their stories that reflect their expertise, leadership, and passion for homebuilding.
Finding Purpose in an Unexpected Place
For some, construction is a lifelong dream. For others, it’s a path they discover along the way. Lexi Steinmetz, a Construction Manager in Tampa, didn’t plan on a career in construction at all. She was working toward a nursing license when the pandemic changed everything.
“Construction was not part of my long-term goal initially. COVID is what really pushed me into it. I realized I liked the problem-solving aspect and the daily change of scenery. What started out as a backup plan turned into something I genuinely enjoy.”
Nearly four years later, she’s built a career she loves; one defined by constant movement, new challenges, and meaningful interactions with homeowners.
“No two days look the same. I’m always moving to different homes and communities. I also like talking with the buyers and hearing their post-closing plans for their homes.”
A Career Built Over Decades
Linda Dignon, a Senior Construction Manager in Orlando, has a story that stretches back nearly four decades—proving that women have been shaping the homebuilding industry for generations.
“I fell into it. In 1986, my boyfriend at the time was a framer. On my days off, I would go to the jobsite with him. I fell in love with working outdoors and actually building something.”
After learning how to frame homes, she was recognized for her potential, promoted quickly, and never looked back. “I love working with the customers and building their dream home. It’ll be 40 years in September!”
Her favorite part of the job still comes down to the people: “Honestly, the customers. I love making them happy.”
Breaking Stereotypes With Confidence and Humor
When asked about challenges, both women shared perspectives that might surprise you.
“A lot of people expect my answer to be about not getting respect because I’m a woman, but that hasn’t been my experience,” Lexi said. “When you do what you’re supposed to do, the respect comes naturally.”
Her biggest ongoing challenge? “Probably the farmer’s tan I’ve developed since working here. It makes wearing dresses a little more difficult.”
For Linda, the challenge early on was proving her knowledge. “A lot of times, I had to work harder. I love it when they realize I know what I am doing.”
The Traits That Make a Difference
Success in construction requires more than technical skills—it takes communication, empathy, and grit.
“My customer service and communication skills have been my biggest asset,” Lexi confessed. “I deal with a lot of people, and I’ve always been comfortable putting myself in their shoes when problems arise.”
Linda credits those skills to her upbringing and personal drive: “My mom worked second shift, so I grew up with my dad and my brother. I was always a tomboy. I’ve always challenged myself to be the best.”
Advice for the Next Generation
Both women had clear, encouraging advice for other women considering a career in construction.
Lexi: “Take the opportunity if it’s something you think you’d enjoy. A lot of the things that hold us back are in our own heads before you even step onto a job site.”
And from Linda, someone who’s seen it all: “It is hard work and comes with a lot of stress. But the feeling you get when a customer cries at their New Home Orientation and thanks you for building their dream home is worth all of it.”
Building More Than Homes
Women in Construction Week reminds us that building homes is ultimately about building trust, relationships, and futures. We’re proud to work alongside women who show up every day ready to solve problems, support homeowners, and raise the bar for what this industry can be.
This week, and every week, we celebrate the women whose dedication helps us deliver homes and communities our customers are proud to call their own.
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