2025 Women in Construction: Stacey Stares, Suffolk

What trends or innovations do you believe will shape the future of your field, and how are you positioning yourself (or your firm) to be at the forefront? Artificial intelligence and robotics are helping enhance efficiency in the building process. Robotics, in particular, are being used to create precise layouts and help identify and resolve design issues before construction begins. At Suffolk, we have a dedicated division focused on investing in cutting-edge technologies. Through our BOOST program, we collaborate with startups to develop and test new technologies on our job sites. Witnessing these innovations in action highlights the significant advancements the industry has made.

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? I’ve always been inspired by the desire to steer complex projects through to their completion. I’ve been fortunate to have had great supervisors whose leadership characteristics I could adopt and make my own as I’ve grown through my career and led project teams. My advice to the next generation of women entering the A/E/C industry is to seek out mentors you trust and respect. Learn from their experiences, embrace their guidance, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Building a strong support network will be crucial to your growth and success in this dynamic field.

What’s your favorite way to recharge or get inspired outside of work? Spending time with my family and friends helps provide balance and is a cornerstone of my life.