CHARLOTTE, N.C. — According to the National Association of Women in Construction, more than one million women work in construction jobs across the country.

Senior Construction Inspector Edrina Maben-Collins has been working in construction for 28 years, most recently for the City of Charlotte Stormwater division.

She says while it hasn’t always been easy navigating the male-dominated field, she says being a part of the community is what brings her the most joy.

"That to me is one of the best parts of it all,” Maben-Collins said. “I’m here, but I'm here. I don’t live on this street, but I’m a part of this community while we build this project."

Women who work in construction are also closing the gender pay gap. The National Association of Women in Construction reports women are earning on average 99.1% of what men make.