2023 Women in Construction: Allie Silva, Vantage Builders

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? My most notable project over the last 12 months was planning and coordinating the Fore20 Classic, Vantage’s first golf tournament. The tournament was not only a wonderful day of golf and networking, it also raised money for the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, an organization that fights to improve the lives of post-9/11 veterans. I did not have any experience organizing a tournament prior to this and it was a terrific learning experience. Just like a construction project, there was a lot of planning and lots of moving pieces. It was a very fun, successful event, not only for our company and others in the industry, but also in support of such a deserving charity. We’ve already begun work on the second annual tournament!

How are you involved in community organizations and/or charities? At Vantage Builders, I organize the community relations efforts, including donation drives, charity events, employee engagement and volunteer opportunities. We strive to make a positive impact on the community and put a lot of consideration into the charities we partner with, and we take great pride in being able to support them. I have volunteered with the Special Olympics of MA for many years and I’ve involved the Vantage team in supporting the Annual Unified Game Day, which is a great, very fun event.

 What made you interested in seeking a career in the AEC industry? I did not expressly set out to join the AEC industry, however now that I’m in it, I love it! As office manager, my role has less to do with construction itself, and more to do with the people and culture of Vantage Builders. Every company or organization needs people to help keep employees engaged, maintain the company’s culture and values, and support the team’s needs. I have met many wonderful people in the industry, and I have made lots of great friendships! I would encourage anyone thinking of join the industry, experienced or not, to give it a chance.

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? To other women considering entering the construction industry, I just want to say that there are more women here than you think! The industry offers a tremendous number of opportunities for women to succeed and have a great career. Vantage Builders has women at all levels of the company, in both the office and on the job site. Personally, and don’t tell the guys, but I think that the women at our company are the pulse of Vantage Builders!