2023 Women in Construction: Tammy Zerbe, Catalyst Construction Services, LLC

What made you interested in seeking a career in the AEC industry? Early in my career I found myself intrigued with the concept of working in an industry which was predominately male. Right from the start I enjoyed the diversity of the construction environment. I enjoyed working with individuals with varied skill sets and varied educational backgrounds and I still get a great sense of satisfaction from that. I always enjoyed the idea that every project would have unique qualities, and over the years it certainly has been proven to me that every project will have its own quirky differences making no two projects the same.

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? I would tell any woman looking to enter the construction industry to always walk in with confidence. I would share the knowledge that when I began my career, there was approximately a 1% female force within this industry and that it has grown to 10% since. I would say that this is a great industry with many wonderful mentors both male and female. It is an industry that stands the test of time providing multiple opportunities for growth, relocation, stability, enjoyment, recognition and self-satisfaction. It is a great time to be a woman in construction while companies are very focused on diversity, equality and inclusion.

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? My greatest achievement over the past year has most definitely been my contribution to the continued and successful growth of Catalyst Construction Services, LLC. Since joining Catalyst in November 2021, I have been able to effectively integrate my commercial construction experience which spans over 30 years, my extensive list of professional contacts, and my eagerness to help develop a dependable and qualified team, all with positive results. Juggling all that was required in the effort to help build the company, at the same time as I was managing multiple projects and working through the day-to-day challenges of pandemic related obstacles such as material and staff shortages, was interesting, effective, and rewarding. The ability to think outside the box when working with the clients, the design team, the subcontractors, and the suppliers, all to achieve the same end goal, was exhilarating.