Canadian Design and Construction Report Meghann Miller joined the Prince George, B.C.-based Vanway Cabinets Ltd. when her father bought the busi- ness. Starting slowly and learning the business along the way, she is now the family business’ general manager Before joining Vanway, Miller had worked as a service advisor in the au- tomotive industry so she knew service and working with people suited her personality. “With Vanway I now over- see 22 to 28 employees from the de- sign process to the installation process and follow up.” She says that although she is see- ing more women in trades and con- struction now, the experience between men and women in the in- dustry differs. “Being a woman in this industry requires you to gain the re- spect and trust of customers, as well as contractors. As a woman you have to work harder for that respect and trust more than if you were a man.” She says with time, and more women entering the field, that should change. Miller says when her father pur- chased Vanway, the company had a 25-year history in the industry. She says there were challenges in learning the business and taking the reins, while upholding the company's repu- tation. As well, she needed to stay on top of the new trends, colours and design ideas to keep up with the ever-chang- ing kitchen design market. “Imple- menting these changes within our sales division and with the shop per- sonnel who manufacture the cabinets takes effort,” she said. “Change is good, but also very challenging.” She says she enjoys the industry's diversity and she loves dealing with customers and contractors, putting their visions into new kitchens, baths and desks. Miller says she also enjoys her staff and that everyone works together as a team. “We are a family-owned and operated business and we try to treat our employees like family. I take great pride in the business I run and the product we manufacture.” Miller would certainly recommend the field to other women she says be- cause, although it’s challenging, it is also very rewarding. Her advice: “Be strong. Some days are going to be tough and stressful and you are going to make mistakes, but you will only learn from that.” Vanway Cabinets Ltd. is a member of the Canadian Home Builders’ Asso- ciation. We specialize in kitchens, vanities, laundry rooms, desks, fireplace cabinets, and closets. All of our custom cabinets are built right in our shop, saving you time and money. FREE in-home measurement and consultation. Our cabinetry services include: • • • • • • Laminate tops Granite/quartz Thermofoil/PVC Excelsius doors Painted doors Full line of wood doors • Handles, pulls & organization 1699 S Ogilvie St Prince George, BC, V2N 1W7 Phone: 250-561-2801 Fax: 250-561-0536 Toll-Free: 1-877-561-2801 www.vanwaycabinets.com email: salesvwc@shawcable.com The Canadian Design and Construction Report — April-May 2015 – 33