WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION WEEK 2025

Women in Construction Week was founded by The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) in 1998 to celebrate and promote the role of women in the construction industry across the country. This year, Women in Construction week was celebrated March 2-8, 2025 and GBCA GBCA is proud to honor the women who are making an impact in our industry.

SABEENA CROWN,

Assistant Project Manager

Target Building Construction, Inc.

What leadership strategies have helped you succeed in a traditionally male-dominated space, and what advice do you have for other women looking to advance into project management?

As a woman in a male dominated field like construction, you have to lead with confidence, clear communication, and build relationships to be able to succeed. For any women who are looking to advance into project management, you have to remember to advocate for yourself. You must set goals for your career and actively pursue them. Remember to be vocal about your achievements and the value that you bring.

What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and how did you get started?

My father worked as a carpenter, so I grew up helping him with renovations around the house. Once at Drexel University, I opted to pursue my bachelor’s degree in business and civil engineering. Throughout my college career, I interned for various companies, but one of them was a general contractor (GC), where I really got to learn the ins and outs of what it takes to run a job onsite. The field experience was one of the other things that helped spark my interest to pursue a career in construction.

What is the most rewarding part of working in the construction industry?

Every day is different when you are in the construction industry, especially when you are involved on the project management side, where you face different challenges and must learn how to solve problems in the most efficient way possible to stay on schedule. But at the end of it all, what was once drawings on paper becomes a tangible reality, and you’re able to walk away from that project with that sense of accomplishment.

Where do you see the future of women in construction heading in the next 5-10 years?

The future is incredibly promising. When I was younger, it wasn’t as common to hear about a woman being in construction. But nowadays, there are so many networks and programs that mentor women and even teach young girls about the industry to broaden their understanding of career options in construction. The societal changes and focus on diversity is creating opportunities for women to be able to join and thrive in the construction industry.

JENNIFER HORN, ESQUIRE

Horn Williamson, LLC

Founding Partner

As a founding partner, you helped build not just structures, but also a company and its culture. What inspired you to take on this leadership role?

My inspiration to establish Horn Williamson came from my experience developing a career with a strong foundation in both the technical and practical aspects of construction. Most people— whether contractors, property owners, or homeowners —do not fully understand the intricate processes involved in construction. Recognizing this challenge, I saw the need for a firm that could bridge the gap between legal representation and industry expertise.

What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and how did you get started?

My career in construction law began with a desire to advocate for fair solutions that protect both businesses and property owners. Legal disputes involving construction defects, as well as the complexities contractors face, require not only legal knowledge but also an appreciation for the technical aspects of how buildings are built. I was drawn to this field because many homeowners and property owners feel lost when facing construction issues and are unsure of their rights or where to turn for help. At the same time, I understand that contractors deal with challenges—unexpected site conditions, disputes over scope, and payment issues—that can impact their ability to complete projects successfully. My goal is to bridge that gap by offering clear guidance and solutions that help all parties navigate these challenges effectively.

What is the most rewarding part of working in the construction industry?

Construction is an industry where expertise matters, and I find it rewarding to help clients navigate legal challenges so they can focus on building. Most people, whether contractors or property owners, don’t fully understand the legal complexities of construction contracts or claims until they face a problem. Whether it’s assisting a contractor in resolving a dispute efficiently or protecting a homeowner’s investment, our work at Horn Williamson ensures that projects move forward with integrity and that our clients have the legal guidance they need.

Securing a legal victory—whether it’s enforcing a contractor’s right to payment, resolving an insurance coverage dispute, clarifying a contractual obligation, or helping a homeowner hold a builder accountable for defects—can be just as impactful as seeing a building take shape. Knowing that our work has helped streamline processes, protect business interests, prevent costly delays, or ensure that homeowners get the quality construction they deserve is incredibly fulfilling.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction?

To young women contemplating a career in construction, I encourage you to pursue your passion with confidence. The industry offers a wide range of opportunities, from hands-on trade work to leadership roles in management, business, and law. Seeking out mentorship and networking opportunities can provide valuable guidance and support, helping you navigate challenges and grow professionally. Gaining practical experience through apprenticeships, trade programs, or industry-related education will build both your skills and confidence.

KATHRYN NEWELL

IDS Drones Inc.

Partner & CEO

As a CEO in a technology-driven industry, how do you see digital transformation reshaping leadership opportunities for women?

As a woman CEO in a technology-driven industry, I see digital transformation driving significant shifts in leadership opportunities for women, especially in traditionally male-dominated fields like construction. Technologies such as AI, construction software, and digital tools are breaking barriers and opening new leadership pathways for women to thrive. By transforming operations, enhancing efficiency, and enabling smarter decision-making, these innovations create roles where women can lead with expertise, creativity, and adaptability.

What inspired you to pursue a career in construction?

Nine years ago, I recognized that the technologies that drones offer could revolutionize construction—and today, that vision is reality. That technology promised to streamline operations, enhance safety, and reduce costs. Their ability to conduct aerial surveys, capture real-time data, and create 3D models transformed project planning, enabling early issue detection and better collaboration. They also provided a safer, cost-efficient alternative for inspecting hazardous areas and tracking project progress. Offering new technologies like Thermal imaging and LiDAR became beginning.

Where do you see the future of women in construction heading in the next 5-10 years?

In the next 5-10 years, I see women playing a pivotal role in transforming the construction industry. Because it is no longer an industry of boots on the ground. Technology plays a bigger role as AI, and digital project management continue to reshape the sector and open up opportunities for a more inclusive and diverse workforce that will only improve companies’ bottom ROIs by seizing leadership roles driven by digital expertise and innovation. Increased focus on mentorship programs and STEM education will create more pathways for women to enter and advance in construction careers. Additionally, evolving work environments and remote collaboration tools will promote inclusivity and will lead to more construction projects, drive sustainable practices, and inspire future generations, making the industry more innovative and diverse.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction?

To young women exploring a career in construction: Embrace the vast opportunities this dynamic industry offers. Construction isn’t just about building structures—it’s about innovation, technology, and leadership. From project management and site engineering to roles in building design, Solar sustainable architecture, engineering, surveying, project management, drone technology, sustainability, and digital modeling (BIM), the possibilities are endless.

Take time to explore different pathways, and don’t be afraid to step into emerging fields like construction technology, safety management, or green building solutions. Seek mentors who can guide you and connect with women who have paved the way.

Leverage technology to your advantage—understanding tools like drones, AI, and digital project management platforms can set you apart. Stay curious, ask questions, and never stop learning.

Above all, believe in your abilities. Your unique perspective brings value to this evolving industry. Construction needs leaders who can drive change, and women are essential to building a more diverse, sustainable, and innovative future. The sky’s the limit!

KRISTIN PELUSI

Geppert Bros., Inc.

Safety Officer

Women in construction often face unique safety challenges. What improvements have you seen, and what more needs to be done to create safer job sites for all?

I’ve noticed a growing trend of women establishing their own brands tailored for women in the industry. I look forward to the day when women’s PPE options are as abundant as men’s. At Geppert Bros., Inc., everyone is trained equally. It does not matter if you are a man or a woman.

What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and how did you get started?

I didn’t initially plan on a career in construction; it found me. Over a decade ago, a call from Mary Pat Geppert, president of Geppert Bros., Inc. and Chairperson of the GBCA Safety Committee, changed my path for the better. Despite facing numerous challenges, I embraced the opportunity and overcame every obstacle that came my way.

What is the most rewarding part of working in the construction industry?

Working on our larger scale projects and being a part of them throughout the entire demolition process (permitting, utility disconnection, until demolition activities completion, etc.) One project I found to be deeply impactful in an overall sense of accomplishment was when Geppert Bros., Inc. performed the CHOP Wood Building Separation. I was afforded the opportunity to work under one of my professional role models, Dona File, the most recently retired Corporate Safety Director at L. F. Driscoll Co. What made this project truly memorable was the collective effort of my team in

maintaining meticulously clean work sites. Witnessing the tangible impact of our efforts in realtime was truly rewarding, underscoring the significance of meticulous work practices in large-scale projects.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction?

Don’t let intimidation, especially internalized, deter you from pursuing your desired career path. With grit and determination, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Take the first step, persevere through challenges, and continue moving forward, especially during difficult times. Stay resilient and believe in your abilities to accomplish remarkable feats and successfully complete tasks.

LIZANNE PEPIN

Hilti Inc.

Lead Field Engineer

Women are taking on more leadership roles in construction. How do you think representation at the business development level can influence change for women in the field?

An increased presence of women in business development roles have a positive impact on opportunities for all women in the construction industry. These roles are pivotal as business developers are the public faces of their companies, involved in decision-making, and active at industry events. Women in these positions become role models, showing the industry is welcoming. They excel at networking, connecting women with employers, mentors, and clients, uniquely driving change due to their visibility and focus on networking.

What is the most rewarding part of working in the construction industry

The most rewarding part of working in construction is the combination of the remarkable people I work with, the variety of experiences, and the opportunity to make a real difference. I’ve met so many talented and genuinely caring people in this industry. I love hearing different perspectives and seeing how teams come together to create solutions that draw on everyone’s expertise. My days are never the same. One day I might be in an office presenting a technical seminar to an engineering team and the next day I could be hanging off the side of a building testing anchors. It’s incredibly rewarding to spend time trying to help others in the industry save time, find more reliable solutions, and create safer buildings.

Where do you see the future of women in construction heading in the next 5-10 years?

The future for women in construction looks very bright. The industry is grappling with a significant labor shortage due to an aging workforce and declining interest from younger generations which is creating a high demand for skilled workers, including women. Simultaneously, the construction industry is rapidly adopting new technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM), drones, robotics, modular construction, and even human augmentation devices. These advancements are opening a wider range of career paths and opportunities especially for women in the field. Over the next 5-10 years, I anticipate a significant shift as more women rise into leadership positions, serving as role models and inspiring the next generation. This, coupled with the influx of a younger, more gender-equitable workforce, will hopefully make gender bias a thing of the past.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction?

Go for it! Construction offers endless opportunities, especially with emerging technologies. Explore the industry’s diverse roles and learn continuously. Step out of your comfort zone by joining organizations and attending events to network. Choose a company that values integrity, quality, safety, and growth; one that will support your development through training and resources. Earn certifications, advance your education, and learn from colleagues. Be proactive, help others, and remember, your unique talents are your strength. Strive daily to be your best self.