From Model to Builder: Shillae Davis Redefines Beauty in Construction

The Watcher

9 months ago

Introduction
Modeling Days in LA
New York: A Shift in Energy
Discovering Passion in Renovation
Plumbing School and Breaking Stereotypes
Vigilante Plumbing: Breaking Barriers
Learning on the Job
Navigating Through the Pandemic
Model Builder, LLC: A New Chapter
Building a Reputation, One Job at a Time
The Impact of Shillae’s Journey
FAQs about Shillae Davis
Stay Connected with FLAG PULSE

Introduction

Shillae Davis, a Chicago native turned model, took an unexpected turn from the glamorous runways of Los Angeles to the gritty construction sites of New York. In this extensive report, we delve into her journey, exploring the twists and turns that led her to become the founder of Model Builder, LLC.

1. Modeling Days in LA

After seven years in Los Angeles, Shillae realized the city’s glitzy facade wasn’t her cup of tea. In an exclusive interview, she shares, “L.A. makes you want to fit into their mold, and I’m a Chicago girl – we keep it real.”

Life in LA was synonymous with constant jet-setting between modeling gigs, acting roles, and music video appearances. Despite majoring in accounting, Shillae found herself increasingly caught up in the whirlwind of the entertainment industry. The financial success she achieved left her questioning the need to return to college.

“Why go back to college when I’m already making the income I want?” she pondered. Instead, drawn by the vibrant energy of New York City, she made the cross-country move. Here, she not only continued her modeling career but also discovered a city that celebrated individuality, a stark contrast to the conformity of Los Angeles.

“I didn’t like L.A. because I kind of didn’t fit in,” she reflects. “I’m a Chicago girl; we keep it real, we’re kind of down to earth. L.A. is just very fake. It was hard for me to adjust. I was a little quirky. I am a little quirky, you know?”

2. New York: A Shift in Energy

The bustling streets of New York City offered Shillae a different vibe. She thrived in a city that celebrated individuality. New York became the backdrop for her blossoming modeling career and the place where she met her future husband, Alonzo.

In the midst of runway shows and commercial print work, Shillae’s life took an unexpected turn when she and Alonzo purchased a Brooklyn brownstone. The decision to renovate their backyard during one summer became a defining moment.

3. Discovering Passion in Renovation

As the hammer met the nails, Shillae discovered a profound passion for hands-on work in construction. Conversations with Alonzo about purchasing and renovating properties became more than just casual discussions. This newfound love led Shillae to enroll in a nine-month plumbing course at Apex Technical School, initially intending to gain knowledge to support their property ownership goals.

However, the course ignited a genuine interest in plumbing, prompting her to consider it as a viable career option. The decision to pursue this path, although unexpected, set the stage for a remarkable transformation.

4. Plumbing School and Breaking Stereotypes

To materialize their property ownership goals, Shillae enrolled in a nine-month plumbing course at Apex Technical School. Little did she know that this decision would reshape her career entirely.

Despite her passion for plumbing, the transition from the glitzy world of modeling to a male-dominated field presented its own set of challenges. Shillae faced initial rejection when reaching out to plumbing companies for job opportunities. Undeterred, she took matters into her own hands when she spotted a Vigilante Plumbing truck on the street.

“One time I was walking down the street and I saw a Vigilante Plumbing truck, but I didn’t see anybody in the truck. I had to walk back that same way and I was like, ‘Okay, if I walk back and they’re there, I’m going to say something to them.’”

The unexpected encounter with the workers led to an interview, breaking stereotypes about female plumbers. The men at Vigilante Plumbing were not only supportive but also took proactive steps to ensure Shillae felt comfortable in the male-dominated environment.

“They didn’t hesitate in hiring me. It was actually quite an amazing first experience because they were very serious about me feeling comfortable there. All the men were very respectful, and they actually had a meeting with them. It was like, ‘Listen, if she has any complaints, you’re out of here.’ So, they were very serious about making sure I was comfortable, and I learned so much from them.”

5. Vigilante Plumbing: Breaking Barriers

Undeterred by initial setbacks in job hunting, Shillae took matters into her own hands when she spotted a Vigilante Plumbing truck. What followed was an inspiring tale of breaking stereotypes as she secured an interview, paving the way for a transformative two years with the company.

Shillae’s experience at Vigilante Plumbing wasn’t just about fixing pipes and plumbing systems. It was a journey of breaking barriers and challenging preconceived notions about women in the construction industry. The supportive environment provided her with invaluable insights and hands-on experience.

“They were actually a great company to work for. Like you go to school, but you don’t really get the experience until you’re out in the field and on the job. You get the basics and the fundamentals, but you don’t see anything until you see, especially in New York City. There’s just so much, it’s overwhelming. I realized how much I didn’t know when I was working for Vigilante.”

6. Learning on the Job

The field experience at Vigilante Plumbing exposed Shillae to the complexities of the job. She reflects, “You get the basics and the fundamentals in school, but you don’t see anything until you’re out in the field and on the job.”

The vibrant and dynamic environment of New York City presented challenges that couldn’t be taught in a classroom. Shillae’s journey involved learning on the job, adapting to the unique demands of the city, and gaining practical insights that went beyond the theoretical knowledge acquired in plumbing school.

7. Navigating Through the Pandemic

The unforeseen turn of events during the COVID-19 pandemic led to Shillae being furloughed. However, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter as her reputation paved the way for freelance opportunities.

The pandemic disrupted industries worldwide, and construction was no exception. Furloughed from Vigilante Plumbing, Shillae faced uncertainty about her career path. However, her reputation as a skilled and dedicated worker proved to be a beacon in the challenging times.

8. Model Builder, LLC: A New Chapter

From the ashes of furlough, Model Builder, LLC emerged. Shillae, armed with a small team, focused on plumbing and small construction projects. The business skyrocketed, with an average of two to three jobs a day.

In the face of adversity, Shillae embraced entrepreneurship. Model Builder, LLC was not just a business venture; it was a testament to resilience and adaptability. The transition from a steady job at Vigilante Plumbing to the unpredictable world of freelancing marked a significant milestone in Shillae’s journey.

9. Building a Reputation, One Job at a Time

Shillae’s business mantra revolves around the belief that reputation is the best marketing. By delivering quality work with care and effective communication, she aims to build a client base through word of mouth.

In a world saturated with marketing strategies and advertising, Shillae chooses a different path. “I always say, I don’t want to have to do marketing. I feel like my reputation is my marketing. So, I try to do a great job on every job that I do: I try to do it with care, I try to communicate. I try to do all the things that I would appreciate when people come and do services for me. If I can build a client based off of word of mouth because they appreciate my work, then I feel like I’m winning.”

10. The Impact of Shillae’s Journey

Shillae’s journey transcends the boundaries of conventional career paths. From the glitz and glamour of the modeling world to the rugged and demanding construction sites of New York City, she has defied expectations and shattered stereotypes.

Her story isn’t just about a career change; it’s about resilience, determination, and the pursuit of passion. Shillae’s impact goes beyond the buildings she constructs; it’s about breaking barriers and inspiring others to embrace unexpected opportunities.

11. FAQs about Shillae Davis

Q: How did Shillae transition from modeling to construction? A: Shillae discovered her passion for construction while renovating her Brooklyn brownstone, leading her to enroll in a plumbing course and eventually join the field.

Q: What challenges did Shillae face as a female plumber? A: Initially overlooked by potential employers, Shillae persisted, securing a position at Vigilante Plumbing. The company was supportive and broke stereotypes.

Q: How did the COVID-19 pandemic impact Shillae’s career? A: Shillae was furloughed but leveraged her reputation to establish Model Builder, LLC, focusing on plumbing and small construction projects.

Q: What advice does Shillae have for aspiring female plumbers or entrepreneurs? A: Shillae encourages aspiring female plumbers or entrepreneurs to embrace challenges, believe in their abilities, and let passion guide their journey.

12. Stay Connected with FLAG PULSE

To stay updated on Shillae Davis’s journey and other inspiring stories, follow the FLAG PULSE channel on:

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