2022 Women in Construction: Chelsie Gilbert, Project Manager at J. Calnan & Associates

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? My advice would be to jump in and ask lots of questions. There is so much construction jargon thrown around and so many ways to approach a project, so ask questions if you don’t fully understand something. I used to go to my job site early every week with a cup of coffee for my superintendent and we would study the drawings together. I would use that opportunity to pick his brain in a one-on-one setting. Staying curious and asking questions will help build your knowledge base and overall confidence. Also, building close relationships with Subcontractors is key to your success. They are a wealth of knowledge and your best resource for understanding the building process. If you are good to them, they will be good to you (and make your job easier!). Lastly, speak up when you know the answer, even though they may be looking to a male team member instead of you.