Subcontractor of the Year

Habermehl shares her success with the industry

By Jeanne Wieland

When Sylvia Habermehl decided to leave her career as a teacher 25 years ago to work in the electrical field, she knew her days of learning were not over.

In fact, they were just beginning.

Now, Habermehl's efforts to stay educated and on top of the issues and concerns facing subcontractors has led The Daily Reporter Publishing Co. to name her Subcontractor of the Year.

The award doesn't come as a surprise to Don Croysdale, executive director of the American Subcontractors Association of Greater Milwaukee. He said Habermehl, the owner of Habermehl Electric Inc. in Franklin, is a natural for the honor, especially considering her strong involvement with various associations for subcontractors.

"In addition to owning and running her business, she also has given a great deal of time and support to the ASA and other associations," he said. "She's very involved and gives of her time voluntarily."

In turn, her dedication has paid off in terms of helping her learn all she needs to know to be successful with her business. And she's willing to share that knowledge with others in the industry.

"She is very aggressive in trying to put into practice what she learns from these groups," Croysdale said.

Habermehl is involved with the ASA, the National Electrical Contractors Association, the Wisconsin Underground Contractors Association and several state-level committees. She also was a past president of the National Association of Women in Construction.

Her involvement with these associations has made Habermehl a powerful and informed source for state officials.

"Sylvia stands up for the rights of subcontractors," Croysdale said. "She often calls or writes letters in support of legislation" that pertains to the subcontracting field.

Right now, for example, Habermehl is involved in setting goals for the Transportation Advisory Committee, of which she is a member, and working to get certified firms involved with the state Department of Transportation.

Habermehl also uses what she learns to mentor other contractors, particularly those just starting out. Her position as the leader of a successful woman-owned business also gives her a unique perspective when talking to women or minorities interested in going into construction.

"She is very sympathetic to the plight of women and minorities in construction," Croysdale said. "Her insight helps them avoid problems she faced when she started."

Habermehl said she was pleasantly surprised to be nominated for the award. She admits that being as active as she has been with the associations and committees keeps her a little too busy at times, but she would not have it any other way.

"Getting active in the associations was a way for me to learn the industry," she said. "It's helped me grow and learn the business."

Mentoring others who are starting out is a natural outgrowth of the knowledge she's gained, she said.

"I've spent many hours talking to people about this business," she said. "If I can help with what I've been through, that's what I want to offer."