From the quiet streets of Independence, Louisiana, to the deserts of Kuwait and Iraq, Laura Canale has always answered the call to serve. A 15-year U.S. Army veteran, Laura now brings her sense of duty, patience, and work ethic to her role as an Ironworker Apprentice at Performance Contractors.
Laura’s military journey began at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, where she completed basic training before deploying in 2015 with the 1023rd ENCO to Kuwait and Iraq. Over the years, she traveled across the country for training exercises, held the rank of Specialist, and built a foundation of integrity and selflessness that continues to guide her career today.
Ironically, it wasn’t Laura’s plan to join the military at all. At first, she was simply supporting her sister during an ASFAB test. But when her sister didn’t pass and Laura did (alongside her best friend), she made a bold choice to enlist. And she’s never looked back. “It changed my life for the better,” she said.
Now at Performance, Laura is channeling that same dedication into her work in industrial construction, inspired in part by the degree she’s pursuing. Though new to the company, she’s already standing out as someone who takes initiative, uplifts others, and works hard to grow every day.
“I take charge and get the job done,” she said. “And I try to help people who didn’t receive help from others.”
While many on-site may not know about her military background, Laura recalls feeling a warm welcome from the start. “Korey Rome, our training coordinator on site, greeted me as a veteran with open arms,” she said. “Performance is one of the only companies I’ve seen that truly backs up how invested they are in their veterans.”
She continues to carry the principles of service with her every day—integrity, patience, and a willingness to lend a hand wherever needed.
When she’s not working, Laura’s soaking up life’s joys: enjoying time with her pets, reading, snapping nature photos, and preparing for one of life’s most exciting new roles—becoming a grandmother.
Whether overseas or on the job, Laura Canale lives by the values that define a true leader and we’re proud to have her as part of the Performance family.
