2021 Women in Construction: Katherynne Andujar, Assistant Project Manager, Lake Contracting, Inc.

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? My most notable project was WSP in Boston. This project involved meeting new people located in different states, from New York to Missouri. It was also my first LEED project. It provided a chance to learn about the process and helped me prepare for future LEED projects. We also had to overcome a few obstacles, such as the tight schedule and the unexpected shut down a few months before we had to complete. In the end, it was a challenging, informative, and fascinating project in which I was glad to be involved.

What are you most looking forward to post-pandemic? I am looking forward to going to the field more and visiting job sites. I enjoy seeing the progress of projects from beginning to end.

Why should women consider a career in construction? Women should consider a career in Construction because it is both challenging and exciting. This type of profession provides the opportunity to learn as you go, and it helps develop many different skills such as problem-solving, management, communication, etc. The work one gets to do in Construction may appear consistently the same. However, each project is unique, from the people you get to work with to the various obstacles one needs to solve.

Starting out in the construction business, who or what empowered you? My mom is the one who empowered me when I was starting in the construction business. She was the person who encouraged me and is my number one supporter. I grew up watching her be a leader in her work and proactive in various community-based organizations that involve the Culture and History of the Dominican Republic. Watching her overcome obstacles, pursue her goals, and receiving recognition for her achievements, is what motivates me in my career.