What is your current role + duties for CEM?

I have two interconnected roles with CEM: program manager and lecturer for the robust curriculum-based experiential education package, including three construction engineering professional development courses and three paid internships. The courses are designed in collaboration with industry partners to deliver technical and relevant skills for construction engineers to be internship-ready.

I also monitor, evaluate, and improve the student and industry experience related to CEM experiential education, historically referred to as internships by the industry, as the curriculum warrants completion of three summer experiential education towards completion of the CEM degree program. In our compact program, we find ourselves taking on various roles beyond the job title, including providing academic advising, leading the development of an experiential learning (internship) management platform, managing academic support programs, administering women’s mentorship programs, and delivering training materials, to name a few.

What is PESLA + what projects are you currently working on?

The Purdue Engineering Staff Leadership Academy (PESLA) prepares professional and management staff to become more effective leaders within their units, as well as valuable contributors to broader institutional goals. It is a unique opportunity to enhance leadership skills, improve decision-making, understand strategic vision and planning, improve practical communication skills, increase self-awareness, realize the organizational impact, expand the network, and continue learning

My PESLA project aims to explore and comprehend the industry perspective, focusing on leadership insights within companies regarding CEM students who have successfully completed internships. This research aims to assess the comprehensive skill set that CEM students develop through experiential education at Purdue. The goal is to examine how the industry perceives these skills as tangible assets for leadership roles in construction engineering or identify any potential gaps. The ultimate aim is to enhance the overall experience for all stakeholders involved.

What have you learned about being a woman in construction?

In navigating the realm of construction and related adjacent fields as a woman in the roles of architect, urban planner, and construction manager, I have discovered that the construction industry offers a unique opportunity for women to actively participate in building the future. Contributing to infrastructure projects, constructing buildings, and engaging with the broader ecosystem gives a profound chance to shape better connected, safe, resilient, equitable, and thriving communities. My journey involves constructing physical structures and contributing to developing a more inclusive and sustainable societal framework, emphasizing women’s vital role in fostering positive change.

What inspires you about the women in the construction industry?

I find inspiration in the resilience and determination displayed by women in the construction industry. Despite historical gender imbalances, these women continue to break barriers and excel in their roles. Their pursuit of pay parity, along with their highly technical skills in this valued sector, contributes significantly to the construction industry. Witnessing their achievements inspires positive change and motivates a shift toward greater diversity and equality within the industry.

What advice do you have for future women in CEM?

For future women in construction engineering, embrace your unique skills and passion, recognizing the industry’s highly technical nature. Prioritize continuous learning to stay abreast of technological advancements. Network actively, seeking mentorship to guide your journey. Advocate for yourself, showcasing achievements and capabilities confidently. Support other women, fostering a collaborative environment that celebrates accomplishments and collectively works toward breaking barriers in this highly valued sector.