expressed opinion entrepreneur Contributors are their own.
If, like me, you’re an impact-driven entrepreneur looking to solve one of the world’s most critical problems, know that you’ve faced a long and difficult journey — but it’s worth it. For example, let’s take something I’m personally researching and passionate about: the housing crisis.
I think we can agree that the way we build our homes no longer works. The industry can’t keep up with demand, construction takes forever, and everything suffers from material and labor shortages. Additionally, there is a severe shortage of affordable housing – and 3D printing technology is our best bet for addressing the global housing crisis.
As CEO of Apis Cor, I’m one of the few people in the world, and possibly the only woman, to robotically build buildings using concrete additive manufacturing (also known as 3D printing). We have 3D printed full-scale concrete buildings all over the world and plan to build them on Mars and the Moon soon. This technology is making headlines, rapidly evolving and revolutionizing the way we live.
This is what my team and I have learned so far, not even just 3D printing. Whether you’re a young student exploring new possibilities, an emerging entrepreneur looking to make a global impact, or a female executive considering a non-traditional career path, I hope these insights inspire you.
Related: 25 Leadership Lessons for Millionaire Business Owners
1. Solutions for a world in crisis
In 2022, in the US alone, more than 500,000 people are homeless. 1.2 million new homes were built last year, and housing demand was 5 million. Plus, 80% of home builders can’t find labor, the number of retirements is at an all-time high, and millennials like me don’t want dangerous, dirty, or physically demanding jobs. On top of that, 90% of builders across the country struggled with material shortages last year. Globally, more than 1.5 billion people lack access to shelter or affordable housing.
Whether you’re working to mitigate the effects of climate change or end child abuse, your biggest challenges won’t be solved overnight. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t be a pioneer. Ask yourself what key piece of the puzzle you can try to solve today and start with what you have.
related: Can technology help us fight climate change?
2. Build a Unique Perspective
The field of construction technology is developing rapidly. Overall, however, the construction industry is still dominated by men. I am the industry’s first female founder and CEO. There is a lot of room for innovation and a lot of work to be done.
I am often asked if 3D printing is really the future, and it is. 3D printed homes can be created for all types of housing needs, large and small. More importantly, what was previously impossible or expensive with traditional methods is now a valid architectural possibility. With portable and mobile technology, construction becomes a viable career opportunity for women, retirees, and anyone else who has given up the profession because of the need for manual labor.
Anyone can start a business – including a construction business – now is the time. But to stand out, be ready to “work like hell,” as Elon Musk put it. If you want to be an entrepreneur, especially if you want to be a role model, I’m sure you’ll soon learn that there is no substitute for field experience. The more you’re in the field, questioning existing systems and asking if XYZ is the best approach, the more you’ll learn to think differently. Learning to find the answers no one is looking for, and to give it your all where you need it most, will set you apart.
related: 3 leadership lessons learned from Elon Musk
3. Empowering those in need
Without education, we cannot build the future. We cannot solve the world’s most pressing problems without adequately equipping young people. You may not be an educator, but even as an entrepreneur, manager or leader in your field, you can do a lot to help those who want to learn and grow. You just need to find the best way to help.
For example, at my company, we’re trying to get more women into the industry by partnering with Girls Club Capital and women-focused organizations.We also worked with former NFL players JT Hassell and Hassel Foundation Instruct children to use construction robots, emerging technologies on Earth and in space, and foster positive mental health.
No matter what you are passionate about, working with the right people and organizations, you too can combine your business with your passion.
related: How Entrepreneurship Education Shapes a Generation
4. Be the right leader
I am grateful that I did so many very difficult things at a very young age. One of the most challenging projects of my career was a construction company supporting infrastructure for the 2014 Olympics. I found myself in charge of a multi-million dollar project at the age of 22. Shortly thereafter, I became a key member of our collaborative team, winning NASA’s 3D printed habitat competition to create a sustainable shelter that could be deployed on Mars.
While working on a challenging task, there will be a few moments when you doubt yourself. But as my journey has taught me, we don’t know what we can do until we try to do it. Be an “I can do it, I’m doing it” leader. No matter what, push yourself to try and trust that you will find a way.
