Insights and Advice from Women in Construction

The construction industry is a dynamic and rewarding field, offering countless opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact. This Women in Construction week, we hear from four professionals— Sydney Mukavetz, PE, Sharla Bridges, Ali Gering, and Kiera Keen—who share their proudest milestones, insights into lesser-known career paths, and advice for those considering a future in construction.  

Their stories highlight the diverse experiences and perspectives that make this industry so exciting, while also shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of building a career in construction. Whether you’re a student exploring your options or a seasoned professional seeking inspiration, their journeys offer valuable lessons and encouragement. 

What is a project, milestone, or accomplishment in your construction career that you’re especially proud of, and why does it stand out to you?

Sydney: A milestone I’m extremely proud of was earning my Professional Engineer (PE) license last June. It was the culmination of nine years of hard work between school and the early stages of my career, so finally receiving my license and my stamp was so exciting.   

Sharla: One project I’m particularly proud of is the construction of a new bridge over an intercoastal waterway in Texas. After completing the project, our team restored the area by planting native grasses. I’ll always remember the grand opening ceremony when the bridge finally opened to the public. 

Reaching over 40 years in the construction industry also stands out as a significant career milestone for me.   

Ali: A project I am especially proud of is a current project that involves repairing roadways in Bat Cave and Gerton in Henderson County, North Carolina, following damage from Hurricane Helene. This project stands out to me because the hurricane’s damage was tremendous throughout Western North Carolina, and until you see it in person, it’s hard to comprehend the extent of the damage and what residents in these small communities have gone through. The outpouring of support and gratitude the residents have shown me, the inspectors, and the construction workers has been exponential, and it has been amazing to see the community come together to support each other. This project also stands out to me for the difficulties of repairing the roadway across rough terrain and determining which repairs would be most resilient.   

Kiera: I am proud of the relationships I form with my coworkers, contractors, clients, homeowners, and city officials. Building strong working relationships can go a long way in resolving challenges in the field. When mutual respect exists between team members and stakeholders, projects tend to run more smoothly, stay on schedule, and deliver higher-quality results. 

What opportunities or career paths within construction do you think more people—especially women—should know about?

Sydney: The project engineer role. I did not see this specific career path until I was working in the industry, and now it is one of my favorites. It’s a fast-paced role, with new challenges popping up all the time, so day-to-day work is rarely the same.    

Sharla: Construction inspection, environmental, and design are opportunities I think would be great career paths for someone, especially women, to pursue. The construction industry has expanded opportunities and opened doors significantly for women over the past decade. 

Ali: I think more people, especially women, should know that there are career options in this field that don’t include design or working for the contractor as a project engineer/field engineer. Before speaking with RS&H, I didn’t know that CEI/Construction Management was an option. I always knew that design wasn’t the path for me—I prefer a more hands-on approach and working out in the field. My role as a construction technician has been instrumental in bridging the gap between my academic studies and real-world experience. It has given me a deeper understanding of how design and fieldwork seamlessly come together. 

Kiera: I got my degree in Biosystems Engineering from Auburn University and used that to go into an environmental path in construction. I love my job in environmental engineering. It allows me to be in the office and in the field. Every day presents new challenges, and it never gets boring. There is a great sense of accomplishment when you go from seeing a job on paper to the finished product that the public can use. 

What advice would you give students considering a career in construction?

Sydney: Be a sponge when it comes to asking questions and learning about different aspects of the field. Most of the people I’ve encountered are happy to share their knowledge and experiences! Also, don’t be afraid to get a little dirty. Teaching construction can be difficult in a classroom. Learning in the field has greatly enhanced my knowledge and decision-making in my current role. 

Sharla: Research all your options. Find a mentor in the industry. If you enjoy teamwork and challenges that yield visible results, then this is a career that will excite you for many years to come.   

Ali: Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do it, or that construction is only a man’s career. Always be willing to learn and gain more knowledge. Build your confidence, and if you ever feel like an imposter, remember there is a reason you are in the position you are in. 

Kiera: Build your confidence and skills by getting hands-on experience. Never second-guess your abilities. Find a mentor and network with others to learn from their experiences and navigate the unique challenges in construction. Asking questions is respected; curiosity shows engagement and helps prevent mistakes. 

The construction industry creates a lasting impact by solving complex challenges and fostering community connections. As Sydney, Sharla, Ali, and Kiera have shown, there are countless paths to fulfillment and success in this field, each with its own unique rewards. From restoring communities after natural disasters to creating long-term solutions and relationships, their stories remind us of the importance of perseverance, curiosity, and confidence.  

For those considering a career in construction, their advice is clear: embrace the opportunities, seek out mentors, and never stop learning. The future of construction is bright, and there’s room for everyone to make their mark. Explore career opportunities at RS&H.