Why I chose a career in the construction industry:
I grew up in a family of engineers and surveyors who worked in the construction industry. I also had an interest in math and science classes when I was in grade school which lent itself well to engineering. Through college and several internships, I learned that sitting in an office all day, every day was not something I enjoyed. These factors led me to the construction industry where I found that the variety of work and daily challenges were just what I needed.  

What training or education did you need for your current role?
I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Quinnipiac University in 2017. Prior to graduating, I interned for several different organizations including the H.L. Turner Group which hired me full-time upon completing my degree. While working for the H.L. Turner Group as a Project Engineer in their Structural Department, I completed my Master's in Business Administration through Southern New Hampshire University. Most recently, I earned my Professional Engineering license in 2021 allowing me to practice engineering in the State of New Hampshire.

What is a typical day like in your position?
My typical day as a project engineer can vary significantly and that is my favorite part about it. Some days it's designing steel, concrete, or wood structures in the office, and other days handling construction challenges on site. From going to meetings with clients and putting proposals together to compiling a set of construction drawings, my days are never the same.

What do you enjoy most about your career?
The people that I get to work with are the most rewarding part of this career. From the clients, contractors, other engineers, and vendors, I come in contact with so many different people with an array of backgrounds and perspectives. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn something new from someone with different experiences than myself.

What advice do you have for women who want to work in the construction industry?
There are a lot of different opportunities and insights you bring to the table. Do not be afraid to share those and add the value you have gained through your experiences. At the same time, be open to learning and collaborating. The best projects are the ones where the entire team can come together and work through issues with an open and flexible mindset.