What is the root of a woman's independence? A new book is exploring the concept against the backdrop of one woman's role in a historic engineering project.
In Pipe Dream: An Alaskan Adventure, Deborah Brownlow brings readers along on a modern day "gold rush" as she provides an insightful and often humorous look into her role in the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System construction project in the 1970s. Not content with living a comfortable life in suburban Michigan, Brownlow recounts her quest for unknown horizons, unimagined experiences and her journey to find herself among a world of men.
"My book and I are one in the same," says Brownlow. "I have been given many opportunities to travel in my life, and fortunately have been able to fulfill my dreams of living the life of an explorer or pioneer."
Touching on discrimination issues and the rise of empowered women seeking equal pay, the book explores Alaska as the last frontier and overall humanity. Brownlow revisits her part in forging a path through unchartered land, in reference to both the geographic climate and her own work climate dominated by men.
Additionally, Pipe Dream provides insight into the challenging engineering project, complicated by extreme cold and isolated terrain.
"It was always my dream to become a part of history," says Brownlow. "In working on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline project, I found my opportunity to do so. Now, my strength lies in my sense of independence. I know I have the ability to accomplish anything thrown my direction, and I want to be a source of encouragement for other women."
For more information, visit www.dbbrownlow.net. BD+C
Related Stories
| Jun 11, 2012
SimplexGrinnell highlights integrated suite of web-based technologies at NFPA Expo
eservices platform uses the power of the Internet to deliver more value to customers.
| Jun 11, 2012
Reed Construction announces new hire and promotion
Reed Construction hired Augie Insalaco as a project manager and promoted Matt Mahoney from project intern to project engineer.
| Jun 11, 2012
Hill International selected as CM for Porto Arabia Towers in Qatar
The complex is a mixed-use development featuring both residential and commercial properties.
| Jun 8, 2012
Living Building Challenge wins the 2012 Buckminster Fuller Challenge
The Living Building Challenge was chosen from a pool of 122 of entries from around the world.
| Jun 8, 2012
Nauset Construction completing sustainable dorm for Brooks School
Student input on green elements provides learning experience.
| Jun 8, 2012
Skyline Construction names Millitello president
Millitello is a 31-year veteran who has overseen the construction of campus-size projects.
| Jun 8, 2012
Thornton Tomasetti/Fore Solutions provides consulting for renovation at Tufts School of Dental Medicine
Project receives LEED Gold certification.
| Jun 8, 2012
Allsteel names Kris Yates to head architectural products group
Yates is responsible for the start up, launch and ongoing sales and marketing of Allsteel’s new Beyond movable walls.