2025 Women in Construction: Emily Doherty, BW Kennedy & Co.

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community? In 2024, I was entrusted with the role of project manager for a project where the initial manager took an extended leave during a significant portion of the project. I successfully led the project through its remaining stages, overseeing preconstruction documentation, client and subcontractor coordination, financial management, inspections, closeout processes, and tenant training. I ensured the project’s completion on time and under budget. This project concluded a series of successful engagements with the client, fostering a strong relationship I hope will lead to future opportunities.

Who or what has inspired you most in your career, and what advice would you share with the next generation of women entering the A/E/C industry? In the years I have been fortunate to work with BW Kennedy I have had the opportunity to work with, or adjacent to, nearly all our project managers. This has given me insight into their thought and decision-making processes, allowing me to develop my management style rather than simply becoming a copy of a single project manager. My advice to the next generation of women is to absorb all the knowledge they encounter and to form their own personal style by leaning into their strengths

What’s your favorite way to recharge or get inspired outside of work? Spending time with my husband, curling up with a good book, or making new recipes.