2021 Women in Construction: Rachel George, Assistant Project Manager & Estimating Services, South Coast Improvement Company

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? Successfully worked with the estimating and pre-construction team on two large scale pro-construction projects on the South Shore. Both of these projects required extensive work with sub-contractors and internal coordination. 

What steps have you taken to ensure the continued success of your firm? I have been able to expand my skill set into the production department here at South Coast. I have worked as an assistant project manager for three projects, all three were successfully completed—on time and on budget. 

What are you most looking forward to post-pandemic? Being able to go out to restaurants again!

Why should women consider a career in construction? I think it is important for women to pursue whatever they may be passionate about- for me, I was interested in construction. I think women should always have a seat at the table, no matter the field or profession. Blending ideas, lifestyles and skills can only bring about more progress, which will be to everyone’s advantage. In my case, construction appealed to my love of problem-solving. Nothing is ever cut-and-dry. You have to think outside-of-the-box to come up with a solution that fits the challenge at hand.

Starting out in the construction business, who or what empowered you? My time at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy prepared me well to step into a new field- being involved in the regiment you learn structure, and how to put your head down to reach new goals. I always worked with very driven people, and I knew if I set my mind to learning a new field, I would be able to grow and become successful.