Tools of the trade
Grit Contracting Owner Cari Goodman sharpens her skills as a wife, mom and entrepreneur
On a Tuesday afternoon you may find Cari Goodman tucked in the back room of her cozy Savage, MN Salon, Swanky Scrap, shears in hand serving as the sounding board to one of her longterm hairstyling clients. The faithful have been cheering Cari on for more than two decades for her skills in hairdressing, coloring, and extensions. The next morning, you may just as likely see Cari with a ballcap on, pacing in the dirt as she patiently checks on her next concrete delivery. That’s because for Cari life has never been about meeting the status quo.
She was content with her roles as wife, mother and self-employed hairstylist but the pandemic gave her the nudge she needed to add another title to her résumé, taking on the role of contractor. She runs her highway-heavy construction business, Grit Contracting, with her husband Eric serving as project manager. Together they provide quality retaining walls, boardwalks and other custom structures, often with the purpose of community engagement. Get to know Cari Goodman.
What made you decide you wanted to get involved in construction trades?
I grew up in a trades family. It was only a matter of time before I jumped into the construction sector myself. I saw an opportunity with that line of work when COVID was impacting our world. I wasn't able to go into the salon to do what I love and provide for my family but the construction crews were still out working. It was my highlight to a new career opportunity.
“International Women’s Day means a day to take a deep breath, remember the reason it’s on the calendar, not for validation in ourselves but to honor those that paved the way for what we can do today. ”
Are there parallels between hairstyling and construction?
I believe there are many similarities to both paths. My favorite two are that they both share a creative opportunity, but precision to detail to be able to execute a quality end result.
Do both careers share equal time in your work week?
My weeks are ever-changing. I would say I spend 80% of my time with Grit and 20% with Swanky Scrap.
Running Grit Contracting is a family affair. Cari’s husband Eric is the primary project manager.
Do your daughters have an opinion about you working in two contrasting fields?
I don't think my daughters truly comprehend what I really do every day. Some day they will. I hope my impact is for them to be proud and inspired.
What do you wish people knew about women working in the construction trades?
The number one thing I wish people knew about women in construction is that (a woman’s presence) is only an added perspective coming to the table. I'm not out to wow. I’m here to appreciate the details and to recognize the possibilities. Our community is who overall benefits.
What do you love about your jobs?
The best part of my position is connecting with others, being able to fulfil their visions and execute the process seamlessly is shared in both my industries.
Grit Contracting crews pour a concrete snow removal pad at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.
What can you tell others about achieving work-life balance?
My advice to other moms that share an entrepreneurial spirit is to appreciate the chapter you're in. As it's ever changing day by day; tomorrow isn't guaranteed.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
International Women’s Day means a day to take a deep breath, remember the reason it's on the calendar, not for validation in ourselves but to honor those that paved the way for what we can do today.
You have worked with Anthologie for many years? What accounts for this loyalty?
I have chosen to exclusively support Anthologie for almost 20 years. The detail and creative side of Dan's photography leave me wowed every time. He has a way of capturing moments I'm not even aware of happening. He is absolutely the best!
