"I would like to thank CPS Energy and HOLT CAT for giving us this amazing opportunity to compete alongside so many talented women operators," Ortiz said. "I took the skills I have learned throughout my 31 years at CPS Energy and the training HOLT CAT provided to perform to the best of my ability. This was a great event, and I am honored to have competed and placed in the top 10 in the first-ever event. I look forward to the next opportunity to highlight women in construction."
The two-day event tested the participants' skills in precision, speed, and accuracy across a variety of machines. This included expertise on a small wheel loader, compact track loader, and small hydraulic excavator. Additionally, the event provided a platform for women in the construction industry to network and gain insights from trailblazers who have broken barriers in the industry.
"This event challenged me in ways I never have [experienced] before, and I thank CPS Energy and HOLT CAT for providing the necessary tools to be successful at this event," Menchaca said. "I am honored to have been a part of this event and will take many lessons back to be a better operator."
Ortiz and Menchaca’s showing comes at a crucial time for the construction industry, which continues to grapple with surging demand amid a pressing need for women within the workforce. Despite women comprising only 14 percent of construction workers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, women such as Ortiz and Menchaca are playing an increasingly pivotal role in driving the industry forward.
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Peter J. Holt, CEO of HOLT CAT, expressed his pride in Ortiz and Menchaca’s achievements at the competition. “Their success is more than individual accomplishments; it is a win for all of us and serves as an inspiration to future female machine operators," he said. "Their journey underscores the importance of fostering a supportive environment where women can thrive and excel in traditionally male-dominated industries.”
“I am extremely proud of Letty and Miranda's top 10 finish at the competition. Their triumph symbolizes the limitless potential of women shaping the future of the construction industry,” said Richard Medina, Chief Energy Delivery Officer at CPS Energy. “We are extremely proud to have them on our team."
Ortiz and Menchaca are two of five female machine operators employed at CPS Energy. Both natives of San Antonio, Ortiz has been in the construction industry for more than 40 years and has been an operator for 31 years while Menchaca is completing her first year as an operator.
