From Real Estate to Roofing: How This 51-Year-Old Built a $180K Business Without a Degree

At 51 years old, Bridgette Tena has carved out an impressive niche for herself in the roofing industry, a field traditionally dominated by men.

Earning over $70,000 annually, she owns B. Barela Construction, a company that has achieved $180,000 in annual revenue in just its second year.

Despite representing less than 10% of women in U.S. construction, Tena has not just entered but thrived in this demanding sector.

Tena’s journey to success underscores her resilience and determination.

Initially working as a real estate broker, she sought a career that offered more fulfillment than office work.

With a rich family heritage in construction, she drew inspiration to delve into a vastly different path.

Tena faced an intimidating, male-dominated industry head-on, ultimately overcoming the challenges posed by gender bias.

Launching her own business amidst pandemic lockdowns, Tena obtained her general contractor license and invested $20,000 of her own savings into B. Barela Construction.

Today, she works long hours, from 6 AM to 4 PM, while also being available for emergency repairs, illustrating her unwavering dedication to her craft.

As a fierce advocate for women, Tena aims to create an inclusive environment within her crew, always encouraging more women to consider careers in construction.

Her story not only highlights the potential for significant earnings and stability in roofing but also the intrinsic rewards of protecting homes and providing essential services to the community.

Journey to Construction

Seeking Fulfillment Beyond Office Work

Bridgette Tena’s journey into the construction industry began from an unlikely starting point: the world of real estate.

As a seasoned real estate broker, she found herself longing for a more hands-on, fulfilling career that went beyond the confines of office walls.

The routine of paperwork and sales cycles left her yearning for a more active role where she could see tangible results of her efforts.

Inspired by Family Background

Construction had always been a part of Bridgette’s life, thanks to her family’s deep roots in the industry.

Her uncle and grandfather were both general contractors, and their stories and achievements in the field left a lasting impression on her.

“It’s something that was always tugging at my heart,” Bridgette recalls, “but it took me years to finally chase that dream and follow that career path.”

Overcoming Intimidation in a Male-Dominated Industry

Despite her passion for construction, Bridgette was initially hesitant to enter what she perceived as a “man’s world.”

She recounts her apprehensions about joining an industry where women are vastly underrepresented—less than 10% in the U.S. construction workforce.

“It was scary and intimidating to get into that kind of work on your own,” she admits.

Yet, she overcame these barriers with determination and resilience, pushing past the intimidation to carve out her place in the industry.

Without formal academic qualifications, Bridgette utilized her practical experience and family knowledge to navigate the challenges of a traditionally male-dominated field.

Her commitment to breaking gender barriers not only helped her personally but also inspired her to create more inclusive opportunities for women in construction.

Through her story, Bridgette exemplifies the spirit of resilience, proving that with determination and a willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone, it’s possible to forge a rewarding and successful career in even the most unexpected fields.

Building the Business

Starting a roofing business during a global pandemic might seem daunting to many, but for Bridgette Tena, it was the perfect opportunity.

During the lockdown, Tena put her extra time to good use by drafting business and marketing plans, and honing her installation and repair techniques on a shed in her backyard.

Her determination paid off when she obtained her general contractor license in New Mexico.

Launching B. Barela Construction

February 2021 marked the official launch of B.

Barela Construction, named in honor of Tena’s grandfather, Lino Barela, who was a significant inspiration in her journey.

With $20,000 of her personal savings invested, Tena was ready to take on the roofing industry.

Despite the challenges posed by a male-dominated field, her passion and dedication shone through.

Initial Investments and Training

Tena didn’t stop at just obtaining her license. She continued to pursue specialized licenses and even attended a free two-week training program in 2023, exclusively for women in Denver, Colorado.

This program provided her with a roofing certificate covering essential skills like shingle installation and roof coating.

Such training opportunities are crucial for expanding her business services and ensuring high-quality workmanship.

Her initial investment, although significant, was strategic.

The costs of becoming a roofer, including training, licensing, and equipment, can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more.

By investing $20,000, Tena ensured she had the best possible foundation for her business, setting the stage for future growth.

Drumming Up Business

Tena’s existing network in Santa Fe, built over years in real estate, proved invaluable.

Her connections with builders, construction foremen, and other potential clients helped her quickly drum up business.

By leveraging these relationships, she established her presence in the industry, showcasing the importance of strong professional networks.

As B. Barela Construction began to thrive, Tena’s decision to diversify her skills and continually invest in her business paid off.

The company generated about $180,000 in revenue last year and is on track to surpass $200,000 for 2024.

Bridgette Tena’s journey from real estate broker to a successful roofing business owner highlights the immense potential and fulfillment in non-traditional career paths for women.

As her business grows, she handles the daily challenges and advocates for inclusivity in the industry, leaving a lasting impact on those around her.

Daily Life as a Roofer

Bridgette Tena’s day starts early. By 6 AM, she’s already geared up and ready to head out to her first project site.

The life of a roofer is demanding, particularly when you lead a company like B. Barela Construction.

From early mornings to strenuous physical labor, Tena’s commitment is nothing short of remarkable.

Structured Workday

Tena typically works from 6 AM until 4 PM, ensuring projects are completed efficiently and safely.

Her responsibilities are extensive and multifaceted.

She balances hands-on roofing tasks with managerial duties, coordinating a team that includes four full-time employees and nearly a dozen contractors.

On top of standard hours, emergency repairs are part of the deal, requiring availability at all times to address urgent issues like leaky roofs or structural damage.

Safety First

Safety is paramount in Tena’s line of work. Each day, she climbs ladders and works atop buildings that can rise from 8 to 30 feet high.

With hazards such as saws and nail guns, it’s critical to minimize risks.

Tena and her team use rigorous safety measures, sporting hard hats, thick leather gloves, and safety harnesses to prevent injuries.

Roofing involves removing old materials, installing new shingles, and making precise repairs, all while navigating potentially dangerous conditions.

Team Management

A significant part of Tena’s day involves managing her workforce.

Leading a predominantly female team poses its own challenges, particularly in a male-dominated industry.

Yet, Tena has cultivated an inclusive environment, frequently receiving help on bigger jobs from her mother and daughter.

She recalls instances where clients were skeptical of an all-women crew, but she uses these opportunities to build resilience and solidarity among her team.

Professional Fulfillment

Despite the strenuous nature of the job, Tena finds profound fulfillment in her work.

Roofing is a critical service, offering a sense of purpose that few careers provide.

“People are always going to need a roof over their heads,” she says.

This constant demand not only ensures job stability but also offers the gratification of protecting clients’ most cherished possessions—their homes.

The day-to-day reality of roofing is taxing yet rewarding.

By balancing on-site work with leadership, Tena mirrors the potential within the industry, encouraging others to see the possibilities in non-traditional career paths.

With a steady hand and determined spirit, she navigates the complexities and hazards of roofing, creating a dynamic and inclusive company culture.

Breaking Gender Barriers

Rafted in an industry heavily dominated by men, Bridgette Tena faces challenges and skepticism head-on.

When she arrives at work sites with her predominantly female crew, she often encounters glaring doubts.

Some customers plainly ask, “Where are the roofers?” expecting male figures.

Calmly and confidently, Tena assures them, “We are the roofers.”

It is not an easy pill to swallow for many, but Tena’s composure and skill show that quality craftsmanship knows no gender.

Creating an Inclusive Environment

Tena’s dedication to fostering an inclusive work environment extends beyond just employing women.

She emphasizes creating a supportive atmosphere where everyone, especially women, feels valued and encouraged.

Family is also a central pillar for Tena, given that her mother and daughter often join her on larger projects.

This inclusive approach makes strides in normalizing the sight of women on construction sites, breaking a long-standing stereotype.

Advocacy for Women

As a beacon for women in construction, Tena actively advocates for more women to join the field.

She believes that roofing, while tough, offers a sense of fulfillment and stability that is hard to find elsewhere.

Tena often speaks about the rewarding nature of her job, highlighting that roofers not only work but also protect what’s most important to people—their homes.

This sense of purpose drives her to encourage other women to consider this career path.

Facing both overt and subtle biases, Tena and her team continue to pave the way for more women in construction.

Their resilience and unwavering spirit serve as an inspiring lesson, showcasing that, with determination, the barriers surrounding gender roles in industries like construction can undoubtedly come down.

As Tena continues to thrive despite the odds, her journey carves a path for the future of roofing and beyond, marking the beginning of a more inclusive era.

Industry Outlook and Opportunities

High Demand for Roofers

Roofing is one of the most in-demand jobs in the U.S. With nearly 15,000 job openings projected annually over the next decade, it’s a career with significant stability.

The need for roofers is driven by ongoing construction projects, renovations, and the essential nature of roofing for home protection.

Potential Earnings

The earning potential in roofing can be substantial. Experienced roofing contractors in the U.S. can earn well over $100,000 annually, according to estimates from ZipRecruiter.

Owning a roofing business like Bridgette Tena’s B. Barela Construction can further increase earnings, allowing contractors to set their prices and take on more clients.

A Stable Career Path

Roofers enjoy a stable career path due to the consistent demand for their services.

People will always need roofs over their heads, making roofing a vital and enduring profession.

This stability is particularly appealing in an ever-changing job market, providing professionals with peace of mind and security.

In addition to financial rewards, roofing offers a unique sense of fulfillment.

Roofers play a crucial role in protecting homes, which are among the most important investments individuals make.

The job’s rewarding nature, combined with its stability, makes it an attractive career choice for many.

By embracing this fulfilling and lucrative career, individuals can secure a stable future while making a significant impact in their communities.