2026 Women in Construction: Shannon Terriaca, NEI General Contracting

What women should know about industry opportunities: Women already possess the talents for a career in construction. Success relies on skills most women use daily: organization, attention to detail, and the emotional intelligence needed to coordinate complex, moving pieces with multiple people involved. Technical knowledge is secondary, and comes with time. The ability to problem-solve while moving forward drives a project.

For those unsure about college, the trades offer incredible stability. With a critical shortage of skilled labor, trade work will always be in demand.

Advice for women starting their careers: You don’t need to be an expert to start. In construction, you learn as you go; your team (and Google) will help you navigate challenges as they arise. All you truly need to begin is a drive to do your best and a commitment to delivering work on time. Don’t let the fear of making mistakes keep you from pursuing a position you want. Every professional makes them- anyone who says differently hasn’t seen a project change log! 

Fun or unexpected fact: I attend Newport Folk Festival with my cousins annually. It’s my favorite weekend of the year: good music and even better company!