WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION
Success. Pride. Strength. Welcome to MMG’s Women in Construction Series. We are proud to present women in the Greater Houston area who are dedicated and focused on providing their customers with the highest quality product and developing the backyard environment of their dreams.
Each woman featured has a different story to tell. From customer profiles and designing to running the business to getting in the dirt and working side by side, we hope you enjoy getting to know these incredible women. We know we sure did.
Each woman featured has a different story to tell. From customer profiles and designing to running the business to getting in the dirt and working side by side, we hope you enjoy getting to know these incredible women. We know we sure did.
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Lisa Holbrook - Owner,
Fox Family Pools
“Some of the greatest pride I’ve found with our organization is when our customers end up becoming our friends.” Lisa Holbrook of Fox Family Pools explained. “We must be detail-oriented and problem-solve,so we can ensure we provide our customers the best product.”
For more than 30 years, Fox Family Pools has been delivering on that promise. “Our industry has definitely grown, especially with the introduction of technology and AI. Everything can be controlled electronically or even by Bluetooth, but it’s so much more than just a computer. It’s highly advanced. Lisa explained. “The technology has assisted us in refining pool designs more efficiently and effectively, while continuing to fulfill the customer’s goals.”
During her time, Lisa has watched technological advancements improve their business. “It’s been rewarding to watch our team learn and grow with the technology available to us. They’ve taken on the challenge and work to problem-solve on their own.”
When asked about how Lisa feels being a Woman in Construction, she explained “I’m glad they see the growth, there are a lot more women working in the field than there used to be.”
Fox Family Pools
“Some of the greatest pride I’ve found with our organization is when our customers end up becoming our friends.” Lisa Holbrook of Fox Family Pools explained. “We must be detail-oriented and problem-solve,so we can ensure we provide our customers the best product.”
For more than 30 years, Fox Family Pools has been delivering on that promise. “Our industry has definitely grown, especially with the introduction of technology and AI. Everything can be controlled electronically or even by Bluetooth, but it’s so much more than just a computer. It’s highly advanced. Lisa explained. “The technology has assisted us in refining pool designs more efficiently and effectively, while continuing to fulfill the customer’s goals.”
During her time, Lisa has watched technological advancements improve their business. “It’s been rewarding to watch our team learn and grow with the technology available to us. They’ve taken on the challenge and work to problem-solve on their own.”
When asked about how Lisa feels being a Woman in Construction, she explained “I’m glad they see the growth, there are a lot more women working in the field than there used to be.”
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Tamie Boyd - Co-Owner,
Flamingo Custom Pools
When meeting with potential clients, the team at Flamingo Custom Pools approaches every conversation as the beginning of a true partnership.Transparency and respect are at the heart of how we work. “We see ourselves as trusted advisors guiding our clients through their entire pool journey,” says Tamie Boyd, co-owner of Flamingo Custom Pools. “Our goal is to deliver a quality product that exceeds expectations and becomes a natural extension of their home.”
Flamingo Custom Pools has witnessed significant changes in what homeowners want. Clients today are no longer simply looking for a swimming pool. They envision complete outdoor environments — spaces that include kitchens, living areas, and seamless extensions of their home. “Customers want more than water,” Tamie explains. “They’re looking for beautiful, functional outdoor living spaces where they can truly enjoy time with family and friends.”
The company takes pride in being present every step of the way. Clients often comment on how reassuring it is to see consistent communication and steady progress. Many share that they appreciate the personal attention and the sense that someone is genuinely looking out for their vision from start to finish.
When asked what she would tell women considering a career in the pool industry, Tamie offered this advice: “Don’t be afraid. Express yourself and let your personality shine. A friendly approach helps build strong relationships with clients — and that’s what makes the work so rewarding.” At Flamingo Custom Pools, our focus remains on earning trust through every interaction and delivering outdoor spaces that bring real joy and lasting value to each client’s home.
Flamingo Custom Pools
When meeting with potential clients, the team at Flamingo Custom Pools approaches every conversation as the beginning of a true partnership.Transparency and respect are at the heart of how we work. “We see ourselves as trusted advisors guiding our clients through their entire pool journey,” says Tamie Boyd, co-owner of Flamingo Custom Pools. “Our goal is to deliver a quality product that exceeds expectations and becomes a natural extension of their home.”
Flamingo Custom Pools has witnessed significant changes in what homeowners want. Clients today are no longer simply looking for a swimming pool. They envision complete outdoor environments — spaces that include kitchens, living areas, and seamless extensions of their home. “Customers want more than water,” Tamie explains. “They’re looking for beautiful, functional outdoor living spaces where they can truly enjoy time with family and friends.”
The company takes pride in being present every step of the way. Clients often comment on how reassuring it is to see consistent communication and steady progress. Many share that they appreciate the personal attention and the sense that someone is genuinely looking out for their vision from start to finish.
When asked what she would tell women considering a career in the pool industry, Tamie offered this advice: “Don’t be afraid. Express yourself and let your personality shine. A friendly approach helps build strong relationships with clients — and that’s what makes the work so rewarding.” At Flamingo Custom Pools, our focus remains on earning trust through every interaction and delivering outdoor spaces that bring real joy and lasting value to each client’s home.
Sonia Traugott - Co-Owner,
Sunset Pools
Sonia Traugott and her husband dreamed of something different when they created Sunset Pools in 2001. “We saw an opportunity to create a more complete outdoor living experience—not just build pools. That’s what led us to start our own company.”
What began in a home office with just the two of them has grown into a company with over 25 years in the industry, a portfolio of over 1,500 custom pools and outdoor living spaces, a 4,500-square-footdesign studio, and a talented team behind it. “We built the company through consistency, long hours, and a commitment to doing things the right way. Overtime, we expanded, moved into our own space, and built a strong team around us. Looking back, building a business that’s lasted over 25 years puts everything into perspective. We didn’t inherit this—we built it.”
Sonia had already built experience in the pool industry before starting her own company. “Starting a business always comes with challenges, but being a woman in a male-dominated industry—especially in sales—added another layer early on. I learned quickly that preparation and consistency go a long way. I focused on understanding the business inside and out, showing up confidently, and letting the work speak for itself.”
“The industry has evolved from being very build-focused to much more experience-driven. When I started, projects were simpler, and there was less emphasis on design and presentation. Now, it’s about creating a complete outdoor living environment—how it looks, how it functions, and how the client experiences the entire process. Clients are more educated, expectations are higher, and the level of detail has increased significantly,” Sonia explained. “I’ve also seen a major shift in the importance of branding, marketing, and client experience. The experience has always been the foundation for us, and as the industry has evolved, branding and marketing have become more important in how you communicate that. That’s been a part of how we’ve continued to grow.”
When asked about what excites Sonia about the future, she replied, “What excites me most is how people are starting to view their outdoor space differently. It’s no longer just a backyard—it’s becoming an escape, almost like a vacation at home. The spaces we’re creating now are not only functional, but also beautiful and intentional, and that’s how we’ve always approached it. It’s about designing a complete outdoor living experience and making sure every detail supports how the client wants to live and use the space. That shift toward lifestyle and experience is what makes the future of this industry so exciting.”
Sunset Pools
Sonia Traugott and her husband dreamed of something different when they created Sunset Pools in 2001. “We saw an opportunity to create a more complete outdoor living experience—not just build pools. That’s what led us to start our own company.”
What began in a home office with just the two of them has grown into a company with over 25 years in the industry, a portfolio of over 1,500 custom pools and outdoor living spaces, a 4,500-square-footdesign studio, and a talented team behind it. “We built the company through consistency, long hours, and a commitment to doing things the right way. Overtime, we expanded, moved into our own space, and built a strong team around us. Looking back, building a business that’s lasted over 25 years puts everything into perspective. We didn’t inherit this—we built it.”
Sonia had already built experience in the pool industry before starting her own company. “Starting a business always comes with challenges, but being a woman in a male-dominated industry—especially in sales—added another layer early on. I learned quickly that preparation and consistency go a long way. I focused on understanding the business inside and out, showing up confidently, and letting the work speak for itself.”
“The industry has evolved from being very build-focused to much more experience-driven. When I started, projects were simpler, and there was less emphasis on design and presentation. Now, it’s about creating a complete outdoor living environment—how it looks, how it functions, and how the client experiences the entire process. Clients are more educated, expectations are higher, and the level of detail has increased significantly,” Sonia explained. “I’ve also seen a major shift in the importance of branding, marketing, and client experience. The experience has always been the foundation for us, and as the industry has evolved, branding and marketing have become more important in how you communicate that. That’s been a part of how we’ve continued to grow.”
When asked about what excites Sonia about the future, she replied, “What excites me most is how people are starting to view their outdoor space differently. It’s no longer just a backyard—it’s becoming an escape, almost like a vacation at home. The spaces we’re creating now are not only functional, but also beautiful and intentional, and that’s how we’ve always approached it. It’s about designing a complete outdoor living experience and making sure every detail supports how the client wants to live and use the space. That shift toward lifestyle and experience is what makes the future of this industry so exciting.”
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Nic Hart - Operations Coordinator, Encantada Pools
Over 3 years ago, Nic Hart left the middle school math classroom for a new learning experience. “My husband acquired Encantada Pools four years ago, and I was looking for a change. So, with him working in construction, it was also relevant to me - a math person – and it worked out. I am collaborating with him while fulfilling my interests.”
Not only is Nic fulfilling her interests, but she also continues to mentor and teach her employees. “Here at Encantada Pools, we value personal skills, integrity, and humility. If you're always willing to do the right thing, even when no one's watching, you’re going to establish the proper standard. Academic skills are also important, pool construction, physics,geometry, and chemistry, it's amazing. We thought that we weren't going to have to do this when we got older, but we use it every day.”
“It was a learning curve at first, but I’ve had great mentors. Alyssa Schmieder and Cheryl Farbod, both well-established women within the pool industry, have been instrumental in my growth.” Nic discussed her own learning curve. “These ladies work unapologetically because they need to get it done. I admire their confidence in how much they do and how hard they work without seeming to break a sweat."
“It's important to show that women are right there with every body else. We are just as valuable to our industry as anyone else. When people stop being surprised that a woman is capable of something that has been deemed for a man, or they see us doing something like being in the dirt, then, we will know that women are receiving equal credit for equal contributions.”
Over 3 years ago, Nic Hart left the middle school math classroom for a new learning experience. “My husband acquired Encantada Pools four years ago, and I was looking for a change. So, with him working in construction, it was also relevant to me - a math person – and it worked out. I am collaborating with him while fulfilling my interests.”
Not only is Nic fulfilling her interests, but she also continues to mentor and teach her employees. “Here at Encantada Pools, we value personal skills, integrity, and humility. If you're always willing to do the right thing, even when no one's watching, you’re going to establish the proper standard. Academic skills are also important, pool construction, physics,geometry, and chemistry, it's amazing. We thought that we weren't going to have to do this when we got older, but we use it every day.”
“It was a learning curve at first, but I’ve had great mentors. Alyssa Schmieder and Cheryl Farbod, both well-established women within the pool industry, have been instrumental in my growth.” Nic discussed her own learning curve. “These ladies work unapologetically because they need to get it done. I admire their confidence in how much they do and how hard they work without seeming to break a sweat."
“It's important to show that women are right there with every body else. We are just as valuable to our industry as anyone else. When people stop being surprised that a woman is capable of something that has been deemed for a man, or they see us doing something like being in the dirt, then, we will know that women are receiving equal credit for equal contributions.”
Natalia McBride - Owner,
Township Pools and Total Pool Care
Natalia McBride, Owner of Township Pools and Total Pool Care,came on board with her husband 14 years ago, leaving a career in banking. “I have immense pride in my career here. I manage our bookkeeping, human resources, insurance, and benefits. We work diligently to retain our employees with competitive pay and good benefits. Natalia explained.
During her tenure with Township Pools and Total Pool Care, Natalia has seen the industry change and stay the same. “Pools are still built the same way and in the same phases, but the equipment, the automation and the materials have gotten more advanced and sophisticated. It has been nice to see.”
When asked about what she focuses on, Natalia stated, “We work hard at maintaining our 5-star reputation, and it is extremely rewarding.Along with managing our maintenance division, my husband, Mike, sold one of our largest remodels that we are currently finishing. This industry is not going anywhere. We are ready for it to gear up again.”
While Natalia has a knack for managing a team and their business in this industry, she has watched the changes as a woman in construction. “While it’s still a mainly male-dominated industry, we can absolutely be a part of it and thrive in it.” Natalia said, and she has this advice for her fellow women. “Hold your ground and know your worth.”
Township Pools and Total Pool Care
Natalia McBride, Owner of Township Pools and Total Pool Care,came on board with her husband 14 years ago, leaving a career in banking. “I have immense pride in my career here. I manage our bookkeeping, human resources, insurance, and benefits. We work diligently to retain our employees with competitive pay and good benefits. Natalia explained.
During her tenure with Township Pools and Total Pool Care, Natalia has seen the industry change and stay the same. “Pools are still built the same way and in the same phases, but the equipment, the automation and the materials have gotten more advanced and sophisticated. It has been nice to see.”
When asked about what she focuses on, Natalia stated, “We work hard at maintaining our 5-star reputation, and it is extremely rewarding.Along with managing our maintenance division, my husband, Mike, sold one of our largest remodels that we are currently finishing. This industry is not going anywhere. We are ready for it to gear up again.”
While Natalia has a knack for managing a team and their business in this industry, she has watched the changes as a woman in construction. “While it’s still a mainly male-dominated industry, we can absolutely be a part of it and thrive in it.” Natalia said, and she has this advice for her fellow women. “Hold your ground and know your worth.”
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Linda Goff - Owner,
Great Escapes Custom Pools
Growing up with engineers, Linda set her initial career choice on computers and technology. In 2009, Linda was presented with a new path and joined her husband and growing Great Escapes Custom Pools.
“Building spaces in a home to take in beauty and being able to relax in that space that touches on all the senses, hearing water, smelling and seeing is exciting,”Linda said. “When I worked in computers, we only saw one aspect of a job. Here we are able to watch the project unfold from vision to existence.”
It’s not only listening to customers that sets Great Escapes apart, but they also focus on the customer experience. Linda believes that their success in construction comes down to listening, integrity, and the ability to create spaces that truly reflect the homeowner’s vision. “We’ve had at least 8 clients who have built more than one project with us,” Linda explained. “When this happens, we can seethe family grow from small children into adults. We also hear how our client still enjoys the pool years later.”
When asked about providing advice to younger generations of women interested in joining the industry, Linda explained, “Don’t be afraid to jump in there and do it. Before I started in computers, my family business was engineering. Now that I’m in construction, a more male- dominated field, you just have to jump in.Plus, don’t think that you cannot have a family and a career, you can have both. Women listen better, are more visual, and more detail-oriented; we can thrive.”
Great Escapes Custom Pools
Growing up with engineers, Linda set her initial career choice on computers and technology. In 2009, Linda was presented with a new path and joined her husband and growing Great Escapes Custom Pools.
“Building spaces in a home to take in beauty and being able to relax in that space that touches on all the senses, hearing water, smelling and seeing is exciting,”Linda said. “When I worked in computers, we only saw one aspect of a job. Here we are able to watch the project unfold from vision to existence.”
It’s not only listening to customers that sets Great Escapes apart, but they also focus on the customer experience. Linda believes that their success in construction comes down to listening, integrity, and the ability to create spaces that truly reflect the homeowner’s vision. “We’ve had at least 8 clients who have built more than one project with us,” Linda explained. “When this happens, we can seethe family grow from small children into adults. We also hear how our client still enjoys the pool years later.”
When asked about providing advice to younger generations of women interested in joining the industry, Linda explained, “Don’t be afraid to jump in there and do it. Before I started in computers, my family business was engineering. Now that I’m in construction, a more male- dominated field, you just have to jump in.Plus, don’t think that you cannot have a family and a career, you can have both. Women listen better, are more visual, and more detail-oriented; we can thrive.”
Cheryl Masters - Owner,
Backyard Oasis
If you’ve had the opportunity to meet Cheryl Masters, it may have been in the office, or it may have been on a jobsite - quite possibly when Cheryl was “in the hole” - “I had some big shoes to fill when I came to Backyard Oasis.” Explained Cheryl.
Those big shoes came in the way of her parents and specifically, her dad, Bob.“When I started, I needed to figure out how to fit into what had long been Bob’s world.” Cheryl said.“I had the passion to build upon our reputation. So, I continued my education through PHTA (Pool and Hot Tub Alliance) and became both a Certified Building Professional (CBP) and a Certified Pool Operator. Those certifications, which include 40 hours of education and passing certification exams, are requirements to work at Backyard Oasis.
”Along with education and passion, Cheryl has watched major advancements in technology and a shift in customer wants throughout her career. “When I joined the industry, we were building 400 sq ft freeform pools. Now we're building 2000 sq ft pools with backyard lazy rivers. What will we be building next year?”
The change in size, design and scope of projects, like lazy rivers, have had an impact on Cheryl! “My favorite project was a lazy river I did 11 years ago - and that was when my dad officially retired. He decided to retire when I was building a project that I had never built before –and it was amazing and beautiful, and the customers loved it. But the follow-up to that excitement was when my daughter sold her first lazy river, and I really realized then that we had come full circle.” Cheryl said.
While Cheryl isn’t slowing down anytime soon, she’s found another calling in her career path. “I want to make it easier for women to get into the pool industry. I want to lay the groundwork for them,mentor them, and help them acclimate to any construction industry, or any male-dominated industry, for that matter. I want to give them an opportunity to have a woman’s perspective.”
Backyard Oasis
If you’ve had the opportunity to meet Cheryl Masters, it may have been in the office, or it may have been on a jobsite - quite possibly when Cheryl was “in the hole” - “I had some big shoes to fill when I came to Backyard Oasis.” Explained Cheryl.
Those big shoes came in the way of her parents and specifically, her dad, Bob.“When I started, I needed to figure out how to fit into what had long been Bob’s world.” Cheryl said.“I had the passion to build upon our reputation. So, I continued my education through PHTA (Pool and Hot Tub Alliance) and became both a Certified Building Professional (CBP) and a Certified Pool Operator. Those certifications, which include 40 hours of education and passing certification exams, are requirements to work at Backyard Oasis.
”Along with education and passion, Cheryl has watched major advancements in technology and a shift in customer wants throughout her career. “When I joined the industry, we were building 400 sq ft freeform pools. Now we're building 2000 sq ft pools with backyard lazy rivers. What will we be building next year?”
The change in size, design and scope of projects, like lazy rivers, have had an impact on Cheryl! “My favorite project was a lazy river I did 11 years ago - and that was when my dad officially retired. He decided to retire when I was building a project that I had never built before –and it was amazing and beautiful, and the customers loved it. But the follow-up to that excitement was when my daughter sold her first lazy river, and I really realized then that we had come full circle.” Cheryl said.
While Cheryl isn’t slowing down anytime soon, she’s found another calling in her career path. “I want to make it easier for women to get into the pool industry. I want to lay the groundwork for them,mentor them, and help them acclimate to any construction industry, or any male-dominated industry, for that matter. I want to give them an opportunity to have a woman’s perspective.”
Casey Gasparde - Office Manager and Purchasing, Marquise Pools
After spending more than a decade in the dental industry,Casey realized she was ready for a change.
After speaking with a friend, who designed pools, Casey took a chance and altered her career path. “Honestly, it wasn’t what I envisioned growing up, but when I was presented the opportunity in 2022, I knew I was drawn to the mix of design, engineering, problem solving aspects of building pools,” Casey said. “I enjoy seeing an idea start on paper to grow to a completed project. Then seeing how happy a client is when the project is done is truly the best.”
While Casey may not always be in the trenches, her education about the pool industry has become extensive. “Even though the pool industry might still be more male-dominated, the number of talented women stepping into it is growing every year, and that’s a great thing for the future of the industry.
“I have been incredibly blessed to be surrounded by knowledgeable people. You learn so much being surrounded by people who have done it so long, and they all provide great information.”
After spending more than a decade in the dental industry,Casey realized she was ready for a change.
After speaking with a friend, who designed pools, Casey took a chance and altered her career path. “Honestly, it wasn’t what I envisioned growing up, but when I was presented the opportunity in 2022, I knew I was drawn to the mix of design, engineering, problem solving aspects of building pools,” Casey said. “I enjoy seeing an idea start on paper to grow to a completed project. Then seeing how happy a client is when the project is done is truly the best.”
While Casey may not always be in the trenches, her education about the pool industry has become extensive. “Even though the pool industry might still be more male-dominated, the number of talented women stepping into it is growing every year, and that’s a great thing for the future of the industry.
“I have been incredibly blessed to be surrounded by knowledgeable people. You learn so much being surrounded by people who have done it so long, and they all provide great information.”
Lisa Prince – General Manager, Ocean Blue Pools
Lisa Prince brings more than 20 years of experience to the pool industry. She joined the family business in 2002 at the encouragement of her brother, Baron. Early on, Lisa recognized that to truly understand the industry—and earn respect—she needed to immerse herself in every aspect of the construction process.
“Being a woman in construction used to be such a challenge.I remember being on the phone with an upset customer and having to hand it off to my boss to calm him down. I didn’t want to accept that, so I educated myself on the entire process. I learned about the equipment, the stages, and started visiting job sites. I made it a point to understand every phase so I could handle challenges with confidence.”
Lisa credits her success to a core set of principles:listening, honesty, customer service, and communication. “No two projects are the same—whether it’s the design, the backyard, or the customer. Focusing on those key areas allows me to adapt and move seamlessly from one project to the next.” What brings Lisa the greatest pride is the impact her work has on families. “Every laugh and memory created by the pool is because they trusted Ocean Blue Pools.”
Lisa Prince brings more than 20 years of experience to the pool industry. She joined the family business in 2002 at the encouragement of her brother, Baron. Early on, Lisa recognized that to truly understand the industry—and earn respect—she needed to immerse herself in every aspect of the construction process.
“Being a woman in construction used to be such a challenge.I remember being on the phone with an upset customer and having to hand it off to my boss to calm him down. I didn’t want to accept that, so I educated myself on the entire process. I learned about the equipment, the stages, and started visiting job sites. I made it a point to understand every phase so I could handle challenges with confidence.”
Lisa credits her success to a core set of principles:listening, honesty, customer service, and communication. “No two projects are the same—whether it’s the design, the backyard, or the customer. Focusing on those key areas allows me to adapt and move seamlessly from one project to the next.” What brings Lisa the greatest pride is the impact her work has on families. “Every laugh and memory created by the pool is because they trusted Ocean Blue Pools.”