2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Hannah Lopes, Shawmut Design and Construction

“Hannah consistently goes beyond expectations, bringing creativity, rigor, and credibility to her work across every project she touches. Her impact to date – and the momentum she’s building – make her someone to watch in the industry.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in this industry, and what path brought you to your current role? I’ve always had a passion for buildings growing up and initially pursued architecture in school. During college, I attended a site visit to an active construction project and was immediately drawn to the energy, coordination, and complexity of managing a project. The tour was led by a female project manager, and I could instantly see myself in that role. Following that experience, I declared my minor in construction management and have been focused on this path ever since.

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of? My current project at Greystone Elementary School in North Providence has been especially rewarding, knowing it will provide more than 500 students with an enhanced learning environment. We’ve also had the opportunity to involve students in the construction process along the way. One of my favorite moments was the topping off ceremony, when students gathered to watch the final beam being set – serving as a memorable reminder of who we are ultimately building for and the impact of creating spaces that are at the heart of our communities.

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you? Early in my career at Shawmut, I had a great deal to learn, but my manager encouraged me to “be a sponge” – to absorb as much knowledge as possible, ask questions, and learn from those around me. I embraced that mindset from the start, which helped me quickly build a strong foundation in construction. It’s advice that continues to resonate, as there is always something new to learn, regardless of experience level.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of the industry? A key opportunity in the industry is the continued adoption of more sustainable materials and practices. There are constantly new innovations that are introduced to the industry, and finding ones that have the greatest impact will ultimately support the longevity of our buildings. For example, the increased implementation of mass timber in recent years presents a compelling opportunity that should be thoughtfully considered during the design phase of projects.