Women are Taking Their Places in Philadelphia’s Construction Industry

Women currently make up only about 10.9% of the entire construction workforce in the US (2022 statistic from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Philadelphia’s commercial construction industry, however, is ready to change this statistic. For Women in Construction Week 2023, GBCA reached out to several women working on project teams to learn more about what it takes to be in the industry.

What do you love about working in the construction industry?

AISHA PATEL, Financial Engineer, Turner Construction Company

One thing I love about the industry is the people. Construction is a team effort, and no one person does it all. Every person brings different views and experiences, which aid in the success of the project. I get the opportunity to work with owners, architects, consultants, subcontractors, etc. Together, we overcome obstacles and hurdles as one team.

MARGIE ARENDT, Project Manager, INTECH Construction, LLC

I love collaborating with everyone involved: the owner, design teams, management teams, and the trades in the field, all of whom collectively make a vision a reality. I love being on site, facilitating a building’s taking shape, knowing first-hand the countless details, and helping resolve the challenges that come up. I love seeing these buildings that have contributed to the growth of Philadelphia, the city in which I live.

KASSANDRA SLOAN, Project Engineer I, Gilbane Building Company

I love watching a project come together over time. There is a tangible product at the end of all of your hard work and problem solving that you can showcase!

JACKIE HARRIS, Lead Estimator, Torcon, Inc.

There are no two projects exactly alike and each day has its own set of challenges. I’m constantly learning and growing.

RAIN CATOIA, Project Coordinator, Healy Long & Jevin, Inc.

The construction world is not monotonous and changes at a fast pace. I must walk into work and be on top of my game each day to keep up with it. I love adapting to the daily, sometimes hourly, challenges.

What advice do you have for women interested in a career in construction?

COLLEEN MCCANN, Project Manager, Healy Long & Jevin, Inc.

Be relentless. Take classes, read books, attend seminars. This industry is filled with individuals eager to share their knowledge, so take advantage of their wisdom. Stop waiting to feel ready for the next big job or promotion. Be decisive and hard-working. Pick yourself up when you fail, forgive yourself for not being perfect, and keep moving forward.

BAILEY ALLMOND, Project Engineer II, Torcon, Inc.

My advice for anyone who is interested in a career in construction is to leave your ego behind, but never underestimate your abilities. It is impossible to know everything, and you must be willing to learn and accept help. At the same time, do not be afraid to speak up for fear that you might be wrong. At the end of the day, getting involved will only build up your confidence.

RUISA HINDS, Cost Analyst, Turner Construction Company

Always be curious about your work and about others. Develop genuine relationships – these individuals will be a great source of advice and support throughout your career. Ask questions, especially to tradespeople as they are the experts in their fields. Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and always seek out opportunities for growth.

COLLEEN MILLS, Project Director, INTECH Construction, LLC

There is always something to learn from anyone in this field, regardless of their rank. Use that to your advantage to become better, wiser, stronger. Women in this industry constantly support and mentor other women in the field. Organizations such as CREW, PWC, NAWIC, and GBCA have women who are committed to helping other women. Get involved, learn, and then pay it forward.

SUSAN TULLY, Senior Project Manager, Gilbane Building Company

Be true to who you are and do not be intimidated by others who may be louder or profess to know more than you. At the same time, be humble and understand that we can learn every day from those with more experience than us.