Where did you go to school and what was your major?

I graduated from the University of Miami (FL) with BSBA Degrees in Finance & Economics and earned a Master’s Degree in Accounting and a CPA License.

How long have you worked in the construction industry?

January 6, 2020, was my first day on the job, which meant that my start in the industry was really a baptism by fire thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What was your first position in the industry and what do you do today?

I started out as the Financial Controller, and now my title is Chief Financial Officer. I’m still responsible for all day-to-day Controller duties and, as CFO, I analyze factors from a macro perspective as well.

AS A MEMBER OF THE CONSTRUCTORS LEADERSHIP COUNCIL (CLC), CAN YOU DESCRIBE WHAT THIS ROLE MEANS TO YOU AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN the industry?

I’m honored to be among such an impressive group of young leaders, and I am eager to become more involved. I think that the younger generation, myself included, can feel intimidated when they first embark on a career in any industry. There is a sense of imposter syndrome and self-doubt. The CLC has created a space for such individuals to feel heard and really make an impact in the industry early on in their careers. The recruitment efforts by the CLC are extremely valuable, especially at a time when we are experiencing a shortage of skilled labor. I believe that the importance of cultivating skilled labor is understated not only in Pennsylvania but nationwide. 

Giving back is also so important, and it is a privilege to participate in the CLC’s Holiday Toy Drive each year. I really respect what the group has done and continues to do for the industry.

Why do you think this is a great industry for women to consider when looking at career paths?

The construction industry would benefit immensely from having more women join the trade. Women have the potential to bring excellent communication skills and innovative new ideas to an industry that can be slow to adopt new technologies. There are plenty of opportunities for women in the industry, whether it be in a financial role or a skilled-labor position. Recently, I was speaking with the manager of our New York Division who was telling me how impressed he and the rest of the team is with a young woman who is training to become an operator. Everyone who works with her says that she has great potential and is an asset to our company- and she is just one example of many!

I’m also a Board Member of the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) – Greater Pittsburgh Chapter. I am now 1 of 2 female board members, but I was the only female when I first joined last year. Our male counterparts often joke that they wouldn’t know what to do without us. We are both very organized and in a short time, we have played a large part in the successful planning of various networking and educational events. This is just another testament to the importance of gender diversity and the abundance of opportunities for women to pave their way into the industry (no pun intended).

To any woman who is on the fence about a career in construction, my advice would be to not feel intimidated, but rather embrace the challenge of making a name for yourself in a room, or job site, full of men.

What do you enjoy most about the industry?

I love spotting our milling machines along the highway. It’s easy for me to get lost in the numbers, so it is a satisfying feeling to see it all come to life. I definitely have a greater appreciation for the times I’ve been late for an appointment due to construction!

What would you do if you DIDN’T work in construction?

Many ideas come to mind… Realistically, I would go back to school and get a computer science degree. I’m more on the introverted side and have strong computer skills, so I could see it being a good fit.