2024 Women in Construction: Lisa Bagshaw, Northstar Project & Real Estate Services

What has been the driving force behind your success in the AEC industry? 

Although I began my career in the AEC industry, my natural career growth resulted in being repositioned as a consultant on business profitability improvement, organizational structure, and business expansion, including acquisition and site development. I chose to pause and consider my inspirations. Upon reflection I recognized that my natural curiosity, detailed level engagement and desire to never stop learning needed to be fulfilled. It became clear the uniqueness of each project and fulfillment upon delivery of a successfully completed project experience in the AEC industry was my passion. AEC offers me constant unique challenges to conquer and the continual growth I need. 

Who or what inspired you to join the AEC industry? 

My father was a civil engineer’s engineer. He spent a period of his career in site development and construction. Every new project and construction technology became dinner table conversation. I relished the times on weekends when he would take me to job sites as part of our typical time spent together. I enjoyed walking around the job site, discussing the job status, reviewing the plans, asking questions, and gaining an understanding of the complexities of site development. Civil engineering was clearly my path. It was always conveyed to me at a young age that I could accomplish anything with hard work and dedication.