Empowering Women in Construction: Advice and Inspiration from a Female Project Manager

A recent study highlighted six major challenges faced by women in the construction industry. The construction industry is a traditionally male-dominated field, but there are many career opportunities for women who are interested in the construction industry.

On today’s episode of the VCC Women in Construction miniseries, host Gabrielle Bejarano speaks with Gabby Saenz, Project Manager with VCC Construction, to discuss the involvement and experiences of women in the construction industry.

Saenz developed an interest in construction from a young age, when she would accompany her aunt, an architect, to building sites. She eventually pursued a career in the field and is now a fully-fledged project manager in the industry, which is a significant accomplishment for her and an inspiration for women looking to pursue a career in construction.

Bejarano and Saenz discussed:

1. Challenges within the construction industry
2. Experience working in the construction industry as a woman
3. Is it worth having a career as a woman in the construction industry?

“The best part of being in construction is seeing projects evolve and come to life from the designs on the paper to an actual building. A career in the construction industry is a great choice. It is rewarding and fulfilling to see a project evolve from designs to actual buildings. Imagine driving by a project you worked on, you will feel proud as a member of the team. Women can be significant members in the construction industry – women need to be proud of their work, let their abilities speak for them and never be afraid to speak up,” explained Saenz.

Saenz received her B.S. degree in Architecture and B.S. degree in Construction Science and Management from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Saenz has been working at VCC since 2017.