2023 Women in Construction: Kylie Williams, Colantonio Inc.

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? I love this question because there are so many wonderful things about construction and about being a woman in it. Historically, it was seen as a “man’s business”, and some of the old guard still feel this way. But I am finding that even the old guard is warming up to their female colleagues, especially if we are being ourselves and just doing our job. My practical tips are:

1. Be yourself, don’t take things personally, and have a sense of humor.

2. Don’t pretend to know something you don’t, particularly with your subcontractors. Instead, ask questions, find answers, and learn it. Your subs will always know a lot more about their trade than you do, and that’s ok!

3. Work hard, physically, and mentally. Jump in and assist in physical tasks if you think you can be helpful.

4. Be confident, even if you must pretend. Always speak up in a respectful and cooperative way.

5. If you want to have a family and even be a stay-at-home mom, do it. There are many ways to “keep your foot in the door” professionally. Personally, staying home with my 3 kids who are 3 1/2 years apart was the best training I’ve received for being an assistant superintendent. If you want it badly enough, you can make it work!