Hard Hats and High Tech: A Woman's Path in Modern Construction

The construction industry has long been a cornerstone of progress, shaping both skylines and communities. While many enter this field later in life, for me, it was ingrained early on by my father, who lives and breathes design-build construction. Some of my earliest memories involve visiting job sites with him, witnessing firsthand the craftsmanship and collaboration required to bring a project from blueprint to reality.

Throughout high school and college, I spent summers working for EXXCEL, gaining industry experience. Still, as a philosophy major, I never imagined a long-term future in construction. After college, I pursued a career in technology, developing systems to expand psychiatric services in remote areas. That experience sparked my fascination with how technology could transform industries, ultimately leading me back to my roots and the family business at EXXCEL.

At first, I wasn’t sure how my skills would fit—or if they’d even be valued. Not only was I a woman entering a male-dominated field, but I was also advocating for technological advancements in an industry resistant to change. Fortunately, the tide was shifting. Technology was reshaping construction, and EXXCEL’s design-build model made system integration more critical than ever.

Navigating this space as a woman has come with challenges. Often, I am the only female voice in the room, needing to assert my expertise among seasoned professionals. However, there is undeniable value in having individuals at the table who embody traditionally female leadership traits—such as empathy, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. These qualities foster environments where diverse perspectives are truly valued, leading to more innovation and well-rounded decision-making.

That said, the value I bring to EXXCEL extends beyond gender. My background in philosophy and technology has shaped the way I think, problem-solve, and lead. I encourage any woman with even a slight interest in construction to take the leap—your unique skills and perspectives are needed.

True diversity isn’t just about representation; it’s about how people think, collaborate, and approach challenges. As construction continues to evolve—where technology and human expertise must seamlessly integrate—leadership styles that emphasize adaptability and holistic thinking will be game changers for companies looking to stay ahead.