Bren McNeely’s career path is a testament to the idea that some of the most rewarding journeys begin with a leap of faith into the unknown. When she started as a marketing intern at Gainey’s, in Holden, La., she was unfamiliar with the precast concrete industry.
“I had no idea what precast was,” McNeely said. “I needed experience, but I was such a ‘girly girl,’ how was I going to relate to this?”
The answer she quickly discovered, was a lot easier than she thought. Years later, she’s found a welcoming, supportive community that values her drive and willingness to learn. This environment, she says, is what makes the industry so special.
This initial internship was more than just a stepping stone; it was the start of a deep dive into an industry that has become her passion.
The Unseen Foundation of Daily Life
As McNeely settled into her role, her understanding of the precast industry deepened from a vague concept to an appreciation for precast’s role in our daily lives.
“I didn’t realize how involved it is; it’s fundamental,” she said.
Precast concrete, she learned, is a hidden gem.
“When we talked about roles in high school, no one ever mentioned this,” McNeely said. “They build structures inside the ground. Everything we do improves the infrastructure and your daily life.”
This realization transformed her perspective, turning her job from a simple task into a meaningful contribution to society. She’s now driven by the knowledge that the work she and her colleagues do is the unseen foundation for the world around us. This passion is shared by her husband, Mason McNeely, whom she met during their internships at Gainey’s. He is now a business developer in the company’s outside sales team. Their shared experience and commitment to the industry have only deepened their bond, a powerful reminder of how work can bring people together.
“Working on these jobs is life-changing,” McNeely said, reflecting on her own journey and the connections she’s made.
The industry she’s found is built on a foundation of collaboration and a shared desire for success.
“With the competitors, we all want to do well and see improvements,” McNeely said, emphasizing a sense of shared purpose creates a unique culture. “People who work in this industry are very helpful and very welcoming, and there’s a great culture because of it.”