Forging Her Own Path: Story of Laura Wacik
Laura Wacik, AHC FDAI FDHI
Vice President /Partner at JC Ryan EBCO/H&G, LLC & JC Ryan International, Inc.
Leadership takes many forms. Some grow into it, others step up when opportunity calls—but for Laura Wacik, Senior Vice President and partner at JC Ryan, it has been decades in the making. From navigating male-dominated job sites to steering a thriving business, her career is a testament to perseverance, skill, and an unshakable belief in herself.
Laura’s career didn’t begin in construction—it started in retail, where, at just 18, she took on the remarkable challenge of managing 13 departments. This early leadership experience sharpened her problem-solving skills and ability to navigate complex situations, laying the foundation for her future success.
In her early twenties, an opportunity arose to transition into the door hardware and hollow metal industry, and Laura embraced it with enthusiasm. As her interest in the field grew, she committed to a rigorous five-year apprenticeship with DHI, and later earning her Architectural Hardware Consultant (AHC) certification. Her dedication and quick mastery of the industry earned her recognition, opening doors to new opportunities.
While working as Operations Manager at EBCO/H&G in 1998, Laura encountered a pivotal moment—an opportunity to facilitate a key investment in what became JC Ryan EBCO/H&G. Despite financial hurdles, she remained determined, securing buyers and given the opportunity to buy in. Her vision and tenacity played a crucial role in merging and expanding the company, shaping its long-term success.
Laura shared that one of her greatest influences was her mother, Rosie the Blonde, a successful businesswoman who instilled in her the power of goal-setting, negotiation, and positive thinking. Watching her mother balance faith, family, and an ambitious career shaped Laura’s own approach to leadership.
When asked about gender in the workplace, Laura’s perspective is clear: “It shouldn’t matter.” She has always approached her career with a mindset of equal treatment, earning respect by demonstrating expertise and capability. Like many women in male-dominated industries, she faced skepticism from male contractors early on. On job sites, she encountered the all-too-common catcalls and scrutiny, but she never wavered. Instead, Laura stood her ground, responding with professionalism, expertise, and results—letting her work speak for itself.
Looking ahead, Laura believes the best way to support women in the workplace is through fair and balanced leadership, where merit and skill take precedence over gender. She strives to create an environment where every team member feels valued, much like her mother did. “And I do love them all… I genuinely care for them. That’s why I make decisions to shift roles and departmentalize, ensuring everyone is positioned for success.”
Now, over four decades into her career, Laura continues to pave the way for future generations of women in the industry. When asked what advice she would give to young women entering the field, she emphasizes resilience, confidence, and the power of expertise. Stay focused, keep learning, write down your goals and don’t be afraid to stand your ground. Your knowledge and skills will earn you respect—so make sure you bring them to the table.
Thank you for sharing your story, Laura! As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re proud to highlight inspiring women in our industry this month. Stay tuned for more stories that showcase the strength, dedication, and leadership of women shaping our field.
Happy International Women’s Day!
