For a Little Girl, Mom is a Superhero

At Home and On the Job

Recently, at the suggestion of the Overhead Door Company, a young girl took out her crayons and drew a picture of her mom at work. Sharing this image for her mom’s recognition as a Woman in the Garage Door Business.

Consolidated Overhead Door & Gate - Celebrating Women in Construction

Along with the picture, she wrote, "I nominate my Mom, because she is good at work at garage doors." It’s a simple statement, but it speaks volumes. To this impressionable daughter, her mother is more than just a business owner or an industry leader—she’s a role model, proving that women belong wherever their talents take them.

Breaking Barriers in the Garage Door Industry

Women in the construction and trade industries have always had to push past barriers, proving their expertise in fields traditionally dominated by men. Niki Van Buren, the leader of Consolidated Overhead Door & Gate, is one of those women, balancing the demanding role of running a company while also raising a family.

Women like Niki are leaders, problem solvers, and innovators, often juggling work responsibilities while making sure lunches are packed, homework is finished, and bedtime stories are read. They lead companies, oversee projects, and deliver exceptional service—all while setting examples for the next generation.

Another remarkable story to share is that of Hope Von Schmidt, a Service Technician at Santa Barbara’s Consolidated Overhead Door & Gate. Hope is part of an exclusive group of female garage door technicians. While many women in the garage door business work in sales, administration, or support roles, Hope is in the field every day, defying stereotypes and exceeding expectations!

Celebrating Women in Construction Week

This Women in Construction Week (March 2–8, 2025), established by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), celebrates the hardworking women who power the garage door industry—from innovation to installation (wicweek.org).

Women like Niki and Hope are showing that leadership in this industry isn't just about experience and skill, but also about setting an example for future generations. Young girls like Ireland are growing up knowing that they can do anything—whether it's leading a business, managing projects, or working hands-on in the field.

So today, we recognize not just the women in construction, but the daughters who look up to them, the families who support them, and the businesses that thrive because of their contributions. Because when women build, they don’t just build structures—they build legacies.

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