When you talk with Sheryl Woodhouse, what stands out most is her curiosity and quiet confidence in building things that last. As Director of Building Value, she reflects with contentment on two years of leadership — taking inventory of the team, systems, renovations, and tools that have taken shape along the way. From new technology and tracking systems to a growing staff, she describes the work as deeply satisfying. Not because it’s finished, but because it’s working.
She was brought on with a clear directive: lead the change required to strategically grow the social enterprise as it celebrated its 20th year in business. Drawing on entrepreneurial experience across art, wellness, entertainment tech, sustainable products, and property management, Sheryl stepped into the construction world with both respect and a fresh perspective.
“We’re providing training for jobs that AI won’t take away or replace.”
“I’ve just been delighted, knowing how many of our graduates built the new convention center,” she said, referring to the 14 program graduates who worked on the newly renovated First Financial Center. “Living downtown, I’ve been able to watch their progress week to week. It makes me feel good — I’ve enjoyed thinking about their sense of accomplishment, all the work they put into a landmark building for Cincinnati. What an incredible opportunity for them!”
At the heart of Sheryl’s leadership is mission. As a first-generation college graduate, she knows firsthand how real pathways to stability matter. “Everyone needs opportunities and mentors — but also the discipline and mindset to grab hold of them and make something happen.”
“We’re providing training for jobs that AI won’t take away or replace,” she said, noting that graduates also gain the necessary skills to make repairs to their own homes. “I know not everyone wants to go to college, and I also know they need to make a way for themselves in the world.”
Over the past year, that belief has translated into measurable impact: 61 people have enrolled in the Building Value Construction Training Program, with 32 graduates and 32 participants placed in long-term jobs. Notably, 18 percent of participants were women — more than four times the industry average for women in skilled trades. That number is personal for Sheryl. Having walked into a role where she managed an all-male team, she understood from day one that diversifying both staff and training crews would be essential to making the program genuinely welcoming to young women.
“It’s been inspiring to watch everyone come together and bring their skills, interests, and talents to the work.”
One of her proudest accomplishments has been overseeing the social enterprise’s new cohort model, which allows Building Value to train more people while offering a consistent, supportive experience. But she points out that programs don’t succeed without strong foundations. Expanding the business model, developing new staff members, and supporting supervisors are all part of making the mission possible.
“We’ve hired people into three new roles this past year, and have already seen tremendous results,” she said. “It’s been inspiring to watch everyone come together and bring their skills, interests, and talents to the work — really contributing to what Building Value is creating.”
Two years in, Sheryl is energized, hopeful, and deeply invested in what comes next — and so is the team she’s shaped around her. As we celebrate Women in Construction Month, we’re proud to recognize her leadership and commitment to building something that lasts.
