Debbie Raines, left, and Lindsay Widdifield at Bedrock Redi-Mix
NANAIMO – On any given morning at Bedrock Redi-Mix, the phones are ringing, trucks are being dispatched, and customers are being taken care of. Behind most of that activity, you’ll find a woman.
Karen Carter has managed the office since 2015. Lindsay Widdifield handles administration. Debbie Raines is on the road visiting job sites across Vancouver Island. And Ashley Tassone, the newest team member, keeps the fleet moving from dispatch.
For General Manager Faron Parlee, this is simply how Bedrock runs.
“These women don’t just fill roles — they’re trusted professionals I depend on every single day,” says Faron. “Their dedication and work ethic are key reasons why Bedrock continues to serve Vancouver Island successfully.”
Karen describes 2025 as a challenging year — the office transitioned to a new computer system twice — but says the team never felt alone in it.
Karen Carter manages the Bedrock Redi-Mix office
“We have always been supported, heard, and understood by Faron,” she says. “He’s always there for us and quick to say ‘great job, thank you!’ — and these aren’t just words. We’re shown appreciation through lunches, birthday cakes, gift cards, and… shhh, don’t tell anyone — spa days!”
Karen also got a message for women on the sidelines: “I encourage any woman looking to get their license and drive a concrete truck — DO IT! You wouldn’t regret it.”
Debbie has been with Bedrock for 15 years and is still the only woman in her area of concrete estimating and sales. She came in with no industry experience and was trained from the ground up.
“Bedrock has always had the foresight to believe there are no ‘gender specific’ jobs,” she says. “I’ve always felt respected, supported, and valued here — and there’s no talk of retiring any time soon.”
Lindsay Widdifield handles administration at Bedrock Redi-Mix
Lindsay, now two and a half years in, sums up her experience simply: “I work with the best people. I’m always treated fairly — as it should be!” She sees the wider industry shifting too. “We have come a long way in welcoming women into leadership roles and on job sites. I am very happy to watch this progress.”
Ashley, stepping into the traditionally male-dominated dispatcher role, is already at home. “I love the vibe here,” she says, “and I’m absolutely loving my new position.”
Just capable people doing important work — and a company that has always known it.
Bedrock Redi-Mix has been servicing Central Vancouver Island since 1994, with plants in Nanaimo and Parksville, a staff of 30+, and a fleet of 20+ trucks.
