Welcome to our WBE Spotlight Series! Today, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Maria Alvarado, President of RT Materials. Join us as we delve into Maria’s entrepreneurial journey and uncover the driving force behind her success in the construction industry.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I was inspired to take over RT Materials because I saw an opportunity to continue and grow a legacy built by a fellow Hispanic entrepreneur in an industry that needs more diverse representation. As a former teacher, I’ve always been passionate about creating opportunities and solving problems and I saw how this business could be a platform to support hardworking subcontractors and contribute to building our communities. I recognized the strong foundation RT Materials had, but I also saw its untapped potential for growth with the right leadership, care, and vision. Taking over the business allowed me to blend my values of service, reliability, and empowerment in a field that impacts real lives and real neighborhoods. It was more than a business decision, it was a commitment to making a meaningful difference.
What is a business milestone or achievement that you are most proud of?
One of the business milestones I am most proud of is growing RT Materials into one of the largest certified minority business enterprise (MBE) suppliers in the Chicagoland area. When I took over the company, I knew I was stepping into a competitive and male-dominated industry—but through persistence, relationship-building, and a commitment to exceptional service, we earned the trust of major contractors and subcontractors alike. We’ve successfully expanded our customer base, improved our logistics capabilities, and built a reputation for being responsive, reliable, and easy to work with. In recognition of these efforts, I was honored to be named one of Negocios Now’s “50 Latinas in Business,” which highlights women making an impact across industries, including construction. Reaching this level of growth while staying true to our values and community roots has been incredibly rewarding.
What challenges have you faced as a woman business owner, and how did you overcome them?
As a woman business owner in the construction supply industry, one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is not being taken seriously in a male-dominated space. Early on, I often encountered situations where people would direct business conversations to male employees or assume I wasn’t the decision-maker, despite being the owner. I also faced limited access to capital, with banks questioning my background and ability to lead a construction materials company simply because I didn’t “fit the mold” of what they expected. These moments were discouraging, but I learned to overcome them by staying focused, knowledgeable, and showing up with confidence every time. I built strong relationships with customers by delivering results, being dependable, and offering personal service that larger competitors couldn’t match. Over time, my work—and the success of RT Materials—spoke louder than any assumption or bias. That’s how I’ve earned respect, opened doors, and created a thriving business on my own terms.
What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs?
My advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs is: don’t wait for permission—believe in your vision and take the leap. You may not check every box or have all the answers at the beginning, but you are more capable than you think. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, seek out mentors, and never be afraid to ask questions or speak up. Challenges will come, especially in industries where women are underrepresented, but your persistence, preparation, and passion will set you apart. Most importantly, don’t shrink yourself to fit into someone else’s idea of what a business owner looks like. Lead with authenticity, and your strength will inspire others along the way.
MBE Construction, Inc. | RT Materials
RT Materials is a certified minority- and woman-owned business that supplies drywall, metal framing, and insulation throughout the Chicagoland area. Founded in 2009 and now owned by Maria Alvarado, the company is committed to providing high-quality materials with reliable, personalized service. RT Materials has become one of the largest MBE suppliers in the region by supporting subcontractors with competitive pricing, responsive logistics, and one-on-one support. Customers choose RT Materials not only for its product offerings, but for its commitment to safety, risk management, and long-term relationships. As a trusted partner in the construction industry, RT Materials is proud to help build stronger communities, one project at a time.
Don’t wait for permission—believe in your vision and take the leap.