Construction Careers Beyond the Jobsite

October marks Careers in Construction Month, a time dedicated to showcasing the diverse opportunities within an industry that builds our communities and shapes our future. While many envision hard hats and job sites when thinking about construction careers, the field encompasses many roles that extend far beyond traditional construction work. 

To illuminate one of these dynamic career paths, we spoke with Kathryn (Kat) Hulst, a leader in our business development team, about her journey from financial services to construction management. Her story demonstrates how construction careers aren’t always linear and often require adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. 

Kat’s experience highlights the profound impact of embracing opportunities, the importance of cultivating strong professional relationships, and how personal connections to the industry can foster a more profound sense of purpose. Join us as we explore her career evolution and the wisdom she’s gained about building a fulfilling professional life in construction management. 

Can you tell us about your career path and what led you to RS&H? 

My career began in an administrative role at a financial company. While I learned a lot, I knew it wasn’t the industry for me, which led me to a business development and marketing position at a sports technology company. It was a smaller company of about 300 people, so I wore many hats—from cold-calling clients and writing proposals to managing accounts and being on-site for major sporting events. 

That role taught me to own the entire client journey, from the initial outreach to final delivery. I had to thoroughly understand our capabilities and demonstrate to clients how we could provide solutions for needs they didn’t even know they had. When I came to RS&H, that holistic approach was something I brought to the table. 

My journey with RS&H began prior to my career at RS&H; my husband has worked here for 18 years. I’ve seen firsthand the dedication required in this industry: the night shifts, the travel, and the efforts our teams put in that directly affect project outcomes. I’ve lived the life of a construction family, which gives me a unique level of understanding and empathy for our work and the people who do it. When my husband was offered a relocation to Colorado, I also explored a job opportunity at RS&H. I interviewed with a leader in business development, demonstrated genuine curiosity for the industry, and landed the job. Since then, I’ve not only stayed—I’ve grown to truly love the industry and the people who bring its projects to life. 

What was it like starting at RS&H, and how has your role evolved? 

I started in a business development role focused on Colorado, and kept saying “yes” to every opportunity that presented itself. Whether it was attending a conference in a new market or figuring out how to present ourselves to clients more effectively, my constant curiosity and initiative drove me to evolve. No one was telling me exactly what to do, but I was constantly asking, “What if I try this?” 

That willingness to take on new challenges propelled my career. One day, my manager asked if I wanted to manage our group of marketers. I said yes without hesitation. I didn’t ask about the responsibilities or the pay. I just knew it was an opportunity to grow.  

What sets RS&H apart from other companies? 

Our employee ownership defines our culture. Because we are all owners, we’re invested in each other’s success and innately care for one another. Accountability, integrity, and care aren’t just values, they’re how we operate. We have worked to approach accountability as a positive, motivating influence that drives individual and company growth. We support one another through challenges, celebrate wins together, and trust our team to step up when someone needs time away. Because we all benefit from our collective success, we grow intentionally and show up for each other every day, creating a powerful, unified team. 

What have been some pivotal moments in your career at RS&H? 

The shift to 100% broad employee ownership has been the most pivotal moment for the company since I joined. We all have the same opportunity to invest in our company. That’s a massive cultural shift that empowers everyone. 

Personally, early in my career, creating a thought leadership dinner for a major industry conference was a turning point. Instead of a typical client dinner, we focused on connecting clients with other thought leaders to solve challenges. It positioned RS&H as a trusted advisor committed to our clients’ success. 

Another significant moment is unfolding right now, as I work with the firm’s new Executive Vice President, Chris Roe, on efforts to shift RS&H’s centralized approach to business development. Change can be challenging, and I went through a range of emotions. But I decided I didn’t just want to get on the bus; I wanted to help drive it. Stepping into that uncertainty and helping shape the future is how we grow and create something we can all be proud of. 

What advice would you give someone starting their career in construction management? 

If you focus on how you can help others succeed, you will elevate yourself and those around you. Take the focus off yourself, because that’s not going to get you anywhere. See every challenge as an opportunity to grow, show what you’re capable of, and make a difference. Be curious, take the initiative, and lean into change. That’s how you build a career that is not only successful but also deeply rewarding. 

Kat’s journey is a testament to the dynamic and people-centric nature of the construction industry. Her story shows that with curiosity, a collaborative spirit, and a willingness to embrace new challenges, you can build a career path that is both unconventional and incredibly fulfilling. 

The opportunities in this field are as vast as the structures we build. If you are looking for a career where you can make a tangible impact and grow with a team that supports you, the construction industry may be the right place for you. 

Explore our open positions and discover how you can build your future with RS&H.