The Welsh Wire: Lessons from a Trailblazing Female CEO in Concrete ft. Adrienne Heidema

Adrienne Heidema, President and CEO of Consumers Concrete

As part of the Family Business Alliance‘s “Women in the Family Business” series, Sheri Welsh sits down with Adrienne Heidema, President & CEO of Consumers Concrete, on this week’s episode of The Welsh Wire. Heidema, the fourth generation of her family to lead the company, is the first female CEO in the business’ 90-year history—a remarkable milestone for a woman in the construction industry.

While Heidema’s position as a female leader might seem groundbreaking, her family’s legacy includes strong women who played key roles in the company, such as her grandmother who served on the board and her aunt who worked as the credit manager. Heidema credits this history of involvement, and Consumers Concrete’s commitment to creating an inclusive workplace, for fostering an environment where women can thrive.

Heidema’s own journey into leadership was unexpected. With a background in banking, she didn’t originally plan to join the family business. However, she emphasizes the value of being open to career changes and embracing opportunities when they arise.

“You might not ever plan on going back to the family business, but don’t be afraid to reach back to family members who have left. They may be ready to come back and bring valuable talents with them,” she said.

Today, 11 members of her family, spanning five generations, work in various capacities within the company.

Under Heidema’s leadership, Consumers Concrete has also prioritized buying local and supporting the West Michigan economy.

She proudly notes, “We are providing infrastructure materials for our community—roads, schools, and buildings—all produced here locally.”

For more on Adrienne Heidema’s inspiring story and the lessons she’s learned as a female CEO, listen to her conversation with Sheri Welsh on this week’s The Welsh Wire podcast, sponsored by the Family Business Alliance.

Listen to the full conversation, and don’t forget to subscribe to The Welsh Wire on iTunes for more engaging interviews with West Michigan business leaders.