Concrete Queen LLC is a women-owned, family-run concrete and masonry company based in Youngstown, Ohio, serving Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. Since starting in 2021, they've grown quickly by focusing on quality workmanship, honesty, and customer experience.
Concrete Contractor connected with Melanie Raymond, owner of Concrete Queen LLC, via email in April 2026.
Concrete Contractor: What makes Concrete Queen LLC unique?
Melanie RaymondConcrete Queen LLC
What makes us unique is that I’m not just the owner, I’m hands-on in the field. Our customers see that level of involvement and care, and it builds trust.
We take pride in transforming properties while keeping strong ties to our community.
Concrete Contractor: What got you into the concrete industry?
I got into concrete at a young age and started finishing when I was just 16. I fell in love with the trade early on — the creativity, the physical work, and seeing something permanent come from hard work. Over time, that passion turned into a career, and eventually into building my own company.
Concrete Contractor: You got into the industry early. How has the job changed since you started?
The industry has definitely evolved. There are better tools, new materials, and more decorative options now than ever before. Technology has also improved efficiency. But at the core, the fundamentals haven’t changed.
Good concrete still comes down to proper prep, timing, and skill. One big difference is customer expectations. People want more design, more detail, and higher-end finishes now.
Concrete Contractor: What is one of your favorite stories from throughout your career? How has that affected your work?
One of my favorite parts of this career is seeing the impact our work has on homeowners. We’ve had projects where customers were truly emotional seeing the transformation of their home. Moments like that stick with you.
It reminds me that we’re not just pouring concrete; we’re improving people’s homes, their investment, and how they feel about their space. That mindset carries into every job we take on.
Concrete Contractor: What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced? How have you overcome them?
Being a woman in a male-dominated industry definitely comes with challenges.
Early on, I had to prove myself more than others. There were times people underestimated me, but I used that as motivation. Consistency, quality work, and showing up every day built my reputation.
Another challenge has been rapid growth and learning to scale while maintaining quality, but we’ve handled that by building a strong team and staying involved in every project.
Concrete Contractor: You’re quoted as stating that you would love to see more women in the industry. How do you think concrete contractors can appeal to more women?
It starts with visibility and opportunity. When women see other women succeeding in the trades, it opens doors. Contractors can create more inclusive environments, offer training, and focus on mentorship. This industry offers great careers, and more companies should actively encourage women to get involved and grow within the field.
Concrete Contractor: What was the best advice you received? In what ways did this advice help?
One of the best pieces of advice I received was to never cut corners. Do it right the first time, no matter what. That stuck with me. It’s helped build our reputation and customer trust. In this industry, your work speaks for itself long after you leave the jobsite.
Concrete Contractor: What advice do you have for fellow concrete contractors?
Focus on quality and reputation over quick profit. Stay organized, communicate clearly with customers, and don’t underestimate the importance of prep work — it’s everything in concrete.
Invest in your team and your systems as you grow.
Most importantly, take pride in what you do — this is work that lasts.
Share your story with fellow concrete contractors. Email us at [email protected]. Looking forward to hearing from you!
