2020 Women in Construction: Alexandrea Banks, Project Manager at Timberline Construction

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? Above and beyond my day-to-day responsibilities as a project manager, i recently created and implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility Plan for Timberline Construction. This CSR plan is kick starting initiatives to better the company through training, benefits and environmental sustainability.

When I’m not working...or in night classes for my MBA, I am exploring the world around me. I am always out hiking, camping or skiing. I made a promise to myself a long time ago to explore as much of the world around me as possible. There is so much beauty to see in nature and so much to learn from the other cultures of the world. I try to go on a vacation every year to explore, hike or camp somewhere new. I also love to try new food and cook. 

What are you doing differently in 2020 that has had a positive impact on your career? In 2020, I am trying to be stress-free, open to new ideas and opinions and positive to help me thrive both personally and professionally. When you stress, your focus is not on what is most important and you can lose sight of your end goal. There is no reason to stress, just try and be your best self and you will succeed. Secondly, being open to new ideas and opinions will help you with your personal and professional growth. Lastly, a positive outlook has a big impact on your work and projects.

What trends are you seeing in your field this year? Some of the 2020 trends I am seeing in the construction industry are technology improvements: AI and drones, BIM technology on the rise, modular or even prefabricated construction, green construction, and robotics/automation used for labor. These improvements help our industry to combat the more challenging trends of a shortage in labor and an increase in material costs.

Who or what inspired you to join the construction industry? I have always loved the elegance and design process of the industry. I went to Wentworth Institute of Technology for Architecture with a minor in civil engineering. Through the co-op experience offered at Wentworth, I was able to learn that my true calling was for project management. Construction allowed me to still be a part of the design process, but also be able to follow through with the building process until completion.