Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders in Construction and Civil Works of 2024. These extraordinary professionals have made significant contributions to an industry that is both fundamental and transformative to our communities. Through their leadership, they shape the infrastructure and developments that define society. With millions of employees in the construction and civil works sectors, strong leadership is essential for driving innovation, sustainability, and growth.
Among these leaders is Cindy Milrany, the first and only Chief Financial Officer of Freese and Nichols, appointed in 1994. Milrany oversees the company’s financial, risk, and project management systems. Under her financial leadership, Freese and Nichols have successfully funded major ownership transitions, growth, and acquisitions—all without borrowing.
We also acknowledge Nicole Boothman-Shepard, Vice-President and Senior Director of Resilience and Recovery of AECOM, an infrastructure consulting firm. Boothman-Shepard advises governments, communities, and industry on strategic disaster risk reduction, supporting clients with $500 million to $2 billion in disaster damages.
Lastly, we congratulate Laura Paul, Head of Operations at Baird & Associates, an innovative engineering firm specializing in coastal, riverine, estuarine, and ocean environments. Armed with a civil engineering degree, an MBA, and several industry credentials, Paul’s wide-ranging experience spans multiple perspectives, including client, designer, and contractor.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders in Construction and Civil Works of 2024.
1. Allison Nicolaidis
Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), ASC Engineered Solutions
Allison Nicolaidis serves as Chief Revenue Officer at ASC Engineered Solutions, a role she assumed in 2023. Following the 2019 merger of Anvil International and Smith-Cooper International, the unified company was relaunched in March 2021 as ASC Engineered Solutions. Under a single name and logo, ASC Engineered Solutions continues its focus on improving the customer experience every day and striving to deliver service excellence.
Nicolaidis brings a proven track record of driving innovation, developing first-to-market products, and delivering exceptional results for both private equity-owned and publicly traded companies. She excels at building and turning around organizations to deliver substantial value, repositioning brands at the forefront of competitive markets worldwide, and maximizing results globally across sales, marketing, product development, and virtual design and construction (VDC) teams. Her achievements include record-breaking performance at the highest levels of global business.
Most recently, she was president of the Power Tools Group for Tools and Storage Business at Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. She joined the company in 1998 and split her time and experience in commercial sales, marketing roles, and product development, including as president of the Consumer Products Group, VP of channel marketing for US retail, and president of outdoor products. Nicolaidis holds a BA in Finance and an MBA in Marketing from Loyola University Maryland.
2. Anita Nelson
Chief Strategy Officer, Skanska USA Building
Anita Nelson is the Chief Strategy Officer of Skanska USA Building. At Skanska, they build for a better society. From hospitals to stadiums, airports to corporate headquarters, and power plants to tunnels and bridges, the important buildings and infrastructure they create help heal, transport, entertain, and energize communities.
Nelson is a dynamic and engaging leader with over 20 years of global experience in construction operations, strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, digital transformation, innovation, program management, project management, market strategy, and communication. She has a proven track record of success in leading growth and profitability initiatives, as well as go-to-market strategies for a multibillion-dollar organization. She is known for delivering value-driven solutions to complex challenges.
Before joining Skanska USA Building, Nelson was a senior vice president of strategy and construction services at AECOM. Earlier in her career, she worked with Tishman, An AECOM Company, as a marketing coordinator. Nelson graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with an MBA in Business Administration and Management and from Wake Forest University with an undergraduate degree in English and communications.
3. Jenessa Miglietta
VP, Strategy & Development, Special Projects, CRH
As the Vice President of Strategy and Development for Special Projects, Jenessa Miglietta leads various projects for CRH in North America. She first joined CRH in 2018. A Fortune 500 company, CRH is the leading provider of building materials solutions. Employing 75,800 people at 3,160 operating locations in 29 countries, CRH has market leadership positions in both North America and Europe. CRH is an essential partner for road and critical utility infrastructure, commercial building projects, and outdoor living solutions.
Over the past decade, Miglietta has led over $1 billion in business acquisitions and divestitures guided operational and commercial strategy processes for companies under the CRH umbrella in both the United States and Canada, founded a Women’s Employee Resource Group, and now leads the CRH Americas Sustainability Steering Committee.
Miglietta earned her Honors in Business Administration and MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University.
4. Karen Freund
Regional Executive Vice President, CIMA+
Karen Freund is the Regional Executive Vice President for CIMA+. CIMA+ provides a variety of consulting engineering services, namely in the areas of buildings, infrastructure, transportation, energy and resources, project management, communication systems, and the environment.
Previously, Freund was the vice president and geographic sales manager for Jacobs Canada. In this role, she was responsible for organic and strategic business development of the buildings and infrastructure business within Canada. She has worked in the infrastructure engineering and construction industry for over 30 years and is known for her inclusive and supportive leadership style. She brings strong business acumen and has a history of delivering positive results in company profitability, growth, and diversification. Freund has a track record of establishing and growing successful and profitable lines of business. She brings a strong commitment to excellence, relationships, internal and external customer service, and innovation.
After receiving her undergraduate degree in civil engineering, Freund began her career as an engineer and project manager, working primarily on transportation projects. She has worked around the world, including living for several years in both the UK and the US. In addition to her expertise in transportation engineering, she has developed expertise in alternative procurement and delivery, strategic planning, sustainable design/resiliency, and program management. Her key professional interests include social value/benefits, sustainable design/resiliency, program management, alternative/collaborative delivery models, and building and community design to support the well-being and independence of aging.
7. Renita Mollman
Chief Administrative Officer, Burns & McDonnell
Renita Mollman is the Chief Administrative Officer of Burns & McDonnell. She first joined the team in 1988 as a civil engineering department manager. At Burns & McDonnell, their engineers, construction professionals, architects, planners, technologists, and scientists do more than plan, design, and construct.
Mollman has been breaking barriers and helping build the future of the AEC industry for more than 30 years. She began her career in the 1980s as a civil engineer and steadily earned a reputation for her ability to exceed expectations and promotion as the company’s first female engineering manager. For nearly two decades, she supported more than 100 projects for aviation and military clients around the world. She took charge of their California offices in 2009, growing the team and quadrupling revenue. In 2020, she was promoted to CAO and in 2021 became their first female board member.
Mollman earned an undergraduate degree in civil engineering from South Dakota Mines. She is a Licensed Professional Engineer through the MO Board of Professional Engineers.
10. Vanessa Zambo
Chief Marketing Officer, Terracon
Vanessa Zambo is the Chief Marketing Officer of Terracon. Terracon is a 100% employee-owned consulting engineering firm that offers services, such as environmental site and property condition assessment for markets, including healthcare and oil and gas.
At Terracon, Zambo leads a team focused on initiatives centered around client experience, brand, and marketing and communications strategy for the company. Her team, primarily based at Terracon's headquarters in the metropolitan Kansas City area, promotes the company nationwide by driving growth channels in digital and eCommerce, developing major project strategies, leading marketing innovations for events and collateral, and creating timely communications for employees.
Zambo started her career in 1997 as a marketer at Turner Construction Company. From there, she eventually rose to marketing manager at HDR, her most recent position before joining Terracon. Zambo graduated from The University of Kansas with an MBA in International Business and a Master's degree in Journalism, Marketing, and Communications.
12. Mary Lynne Perushek
Principal Consultant, Mortenson
Mary Lynn Perushek is a Principal Consultant for Mortenson. Mortenson is an over $5 billion, privately held top 20 construction firm, developer, and engineering service provider serving the commercial, institutional, and energy sectors.
Up until March 2024, Perushek served as a chief information officer, where her responsibilities included compliance and security, technology innovation, infrastructure, application development, data analytics, field technology, PMO, portfolio planning, and enterprise architecture.
Before joining Mortenson, Perushek was the CIO of Donaldson, a $2.5 billion global manufacturer of filtration solutions for major engine, industrial organizations, and government sectors. There, she transformed the organization into an integrated global division with innovative and unified technologies that enhanced operational and strategic value. Before that, she served as a CIO and VP of information technology at HB Fuller. Earlier in her career, she worked with QVC as a director of customer applications. Perushek graduated from the University of Minnesota.
View the complete list of awardees.
15. Mary Person
Senior VP, Public Private Initiatives, Clayco
Mary’s career has been focused on providing opportunities and opening doors in the construction industry.
As Senior Vice President, of public-private initiatives, Mary Person develops public and public-private sector business development opportunities for Clayco, as well as leads strategic initiatives in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) through community engagement.
With her expertise in community and economic development initiatives that help establish a diverse and local workforce on projects, Mary brings senior executive leadership and vision that enhances Clayco’s integrated approach to real estate development, design, construction, and planning, as well as further our commitment to strengthening the communities where we work.
Previously, as a part of Paschen’s Executive Team, she worked to create new strategies that foster growth and development within the Transit Market Sector as well as managing client relations and establishing relationships with minority firms not only in Chicago, but also in Atlanta, Dallas, North Carolina, and the Washington D.C. area.
Prior to that, she led DEI for the Chicago Transit Authority where Mary worked every day to promote a culture that values and supports diversity within the City of Chicago.
Beyond her professional work, she is a mother of two amazing future leaders, Madison and Aiden.
18. Jeanne Bassetti Jullien
VP, UES
Jeanne Bassetti Jullien is Vice President of UES (Universal Engineering Sciences), where her focus is on business development, sales, and marketing for geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing and inspection services, and environmental aspects of projects throughout Houston and across the state of Texas. She enjoys a high rate of success in the expansion and retention of UES clients in the architectural/engineering and construction (A/E/C) industry public and private sectors as she executes marketing strategies and collaborates with the UES team and key industry clients to promote growth and profitability.
Jeanne is currently on the executive board of the North Houston Association as treasurer. She is a past president of the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) and the Association of Commercial Real Estate Professionals (ACRP), and she has a deep history at (CREW Houston) Commercial Real Estate Women. Jeanne, a true servant leader, who recognizes and encourages the talent in others, is known for her welcoming smile and ability to treat everyone she meets with kindness and respect, making her a true asset to UES as they become the premier engineering and environmental consulting and materials testing firm in the nation.
Jeanne enjoys spending time with her friends and family, including two sons, two daughters-in-law, and one precious grandson. Traveling is her favorite form of education. Exercise is important to her, and she loves golfing, pickleball, tennis, and anything outdoors. As a former NFL cheerleader and flight attendant, she has been in the public eye and has always enjoyed her job working with people and connecting her company with valuable relationships.
21. Katie Nilsen
VP, Development & Strategy, E-J Electric Installation Co.
Katie Nilsen is the Vice President of Development & Strategy at E-J Electric Installation Co. Founded in 1899, E-J Electric Installation Co. (E-J) was established during the infancy of the electrical industry. With a history of innovation sweeping the company through 125 years, it is the oldest privately-owned electrical contractor in the country.
E-J has been an integral part of the electrical contracting industry as it evolved from wood-lined conduits to complicated communication systems and renewable power. Its ability to innovate, embrace change, and apply new technologies has propelled its success and set it apart as a versatile company offering services ranging from bulk power delivery to energy conservation, and from value engineering to computer networking for new and existing structures.
The company’s portfolio is known for its high-profile, and complicated projects. E-J has performed work on many of New York’s iconic buildings, bridges, transportation facilities, and stadiums. Those include the United Nations, Rockefeller Center, Museum of Modern Art, East Side Access, East River Tunnel Rehabilitation, Kosciuszko Bridge, Throgs Neck Bridge, John F. Kennedy Airport’s New Terminal One Microgrid, NYU Langone Medical Center, Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NY), the 96th Street Station for the Second Avenue Subway, the Long Island Railroad, Yankee Stadium, Barclays Center and many more.
Katie has been with the firm for eight years and is a member of E-J’s Management and Operating Group. She is responsible for creating strategic opportunities and pursuing opportunities nationally for the firm. Katie analyzes market trends, cultivates partnerships, and enhances collaboration among all team members from end users to engineers and general contractors. She focuses on design-build, innovation, and alternative project delivery methods company-wide across all market sectors. With Katie’s involvement and leadership, E-J was awarded major electric construction projects including the Design-Build services for the Rehabilitation of Tunnels Controls and Communications at the Queens Midtown Tunnel, Smoke Detection and Fire Alarm at Queens Midtown Tunnel, and Hugh L. Carey Tunnel & Facilities, Electrical Upgrades at the RFK Facility and more.
Katie fosters the advancement of women, and minority business enterprises from her personal knowledge of the CRE Industry and her interaction professionally with clients and her peer group. She serves in various leadership roles including, nationally for Design Build Institute of America (DBIA), Katie spearheads the NY Building Congress Council of Industry Women which focuses on the political end of women in our industry and the advancement of women in our industry. She is a Board Member of Professional Women in Construction (PWC) and contributes her efforts to the advancement and promotes diversity within the A/E/C and related industries. In addition to her dedication to women and their professional success, she also chairs the Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW) Ambassador Council to increase the number of women in the construction trades (field).
In 2023 Katie was awarded ENR’s 2023 Top 20 Under 40 and the CoreNet Service Provider of the Year Award. Her greatest award is the accomplishments of the team at E-J that she manages. Katie inspires, promotes, and develops her team by instilling confidence and respect – qualities that cannot be measured. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communication and Media Studies from The State University of New York at Oneonta (SUNY Oneonta).
22. Cindy Milrany
Chief Strategy Officer & Chief Administrative Officer, Freese and Nichols’
Cindy Milrany is Freese and Nichols’ Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Administrative Officer. She joined Freese and Nichols in 1984 and was named the company’s first Chief Financial Officer in 1994. She held the position for 30 years. As CFO, she oversaw the company’s financial activities and customer-focused systems and managed all corporate functions except human resources.
As the firm’s chief strategy officer, she spearheads strategic and future business planning annually through a consistent process that includes market research, client assessment, and analysis and projections of geographic and service line growth. Milrany is a champion for Freese and Nichols’ continuous improvement journey, which resulted in the company becoming the first engineering firm to receive the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 2010, the highest level of recognition for performance excellence in the United States. This deep commitment to quality has led the firm to increased satisfaction among both clients and employees over the last two decades.
Milrany is passionate about her community and is a board member for The Women’s Center of Tarrant County, where she has chaired the organization’s annual Victory Over Violence Walk. She has served as a board member for the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth, the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, All Church Home for Children (now ACH Child and Family Services) and the Tarrant County March of Dimes. Milrany was named CFO of the Year in 2021 by Environmental Financial Consulting Group and in 2012 by both the Fort Worth Business Press and the Dallas Business Journal. She is a graduate of Texas Christian University and a Certified Public Accountant.
25. Laura Paul
Head of Operations, Baird & Associates
Laura Paul’s wide-ranging experience encompasses multiple perspectives, including client, designer, and contractor. She is currently the Head of Operations at Baird & Associates, an innovative engineering firm specializing in coastal, riverine, estuarine, and ocean environments, including work to combat and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Previously, Paul worked in sustainable building design, helping teams to integrate environmental sustainability focusing on sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, and innovation in design. Her passion for integrating environmental considerations began while working as a field engineer for a large general contractor on-site of a LEED Gold Building, she went on to work as an internal sustainability strategist further supporting the company's people, projects, and practices.
In 2014, Paul was appointed as president of the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) Ottawa Region Chapter and was instrumental in building and supporting Emerging Green Builder (EBG) Groups across Canada. She achieved a National Leadership award from the Canada Green Building Council and the Carson Award for Community and Environmental Leadership, and she was ranked as a Top 20 Influencer for Sustainability and the Built Environment on Twitter. She is a published contributor for Global Chorus, a collection of over 365 perspectives on their environmental future, including contributions from David Suzuki, Paul Hawken, Bill McKibben, William McDonough, Michael Reynolds, and Rick Fedrizzi.
Paul obtained her civil engineering degree from the University of New Brunswick and is a Licensed Professional Engineer in Ontario. She holds an MBA from the Telfer School of Management at the University of Ottawa and has obtained multiple industry credentials, including Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification, as well as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) with specialties in new construction, existing building operations and maintenance, and neighborhood design.
28. Christine Klote
Executive VP & General Manager, Texas Highway Products, Race Rock Infrastructure
Christine Klote is a leader in the manufacturing and distribution of Highway Products for the Texas market. Among the numerous products her team handles are highway guardrails, bridge rails, crash cushions, signposts, and corrugated metal pipes. Originally known as Structural and Steel Products, the company rebranded as Race Rock Infrastructure as a result of multiple acquisitions and expanding the company footprint throughout the country. As a result of the recent acquisition of Texas Corrugators in Hutto, Texas, Race Rock has become the obvious market leader in Texas for the distribution of highway products to installers.
Christine serves on the Board of the ATSSA chapter of Texas and is on the Guardrail Committee for ATSSA. She has been with the firm since 2007 and prior to this, she was at Trinity Industries, as the Senior Vice President of Railcar Leasing. In this position, she oversaw the operations of a railcar portfolio with assets in excess of $1 billion. Leading up to that position, she served as their Corporate Controller as well as other key roles including directing many of the company’s mergers and acquisitions.
Christine is passionate about her community and currently serves on the Board of the Women’s Center of Fort Worth, Women Unite of the United Way Tarrant County, and Executive Women’s Day for the Charles Schwab Challenge. She is currently the immediate Past President of the Colonial Country Club Board of Governors, chairs the Board Nominating Committee, and serves on the Strategic, Executive, Finance, and Golf Committees. She is also a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta Alumni Association, The Women’s Club of Fort Worth, and the DAR. Christine is a proud Baylor Bear Alumni graduating with both an MBA and BBA and is a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Management Accountant.
31. Monica Varrasso
VP, Turn-Key Tunneling, Inc.
Monica Varrasso is the Vice President of Turn-Key Tunneling, Inc., an industry leader in trenchless tunneling and boring operations. Their services include the installation of 8" to 84" steel casing pipe utilizing traditional auger boring methods, vertical shaft construction, installation of liner plates, slip-lining to restore damaged or failed sewers, pipe jacking, and hard rock boring using SBU technology.
Before joining Turn-Key Tunneling, Inc., Varrasso was a project engineer at McDaniel’s Construction Corp., where she supported the administrative and field staff with cradle-to-grave project completion. She assisted with effective budget management and analysis, unwavering field support, and shrewd job cost analysis. Varrasso specializes in seamless project integration, including heavy construction accounting, project coding and invoicing, material purchase and acquisition, job costing and analysis, subcontract management, project documentation from bid day through submittals and contract closeout, and administrative/field project management.
Varrasso graduated from the Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University with an MBA and from Ohio State University with an undergraduate degree in business administration.
View the complete list of awardees.
33. Claudia Abbona
Managing Partner, Paradigm Rep Group
Claudia Abbona, Managing Partner with Paradigm Rep Group, a commercial roofing consultant and sales firm, is committed to discovering alternate and viable roofing solutions. With over 25 years of experience in the roofing industry, Abbona has flourished in South Florida as a bilingual sales executive and trusted advisor in her field. During her 18-year career with GAF, North America's largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, she focused on innovative solutions and customer needs, which has evolved with her entrepreneurial role with Paradigm Rep Group, currently representing GAF and Babcock Davis.
Abbona’s commitment to excellence, her ability to develop relationships, and find build solutions have made her invaluable to the roofing community. Described by her peers as a trustworthy resource, resilient, and adventurist, she utilizes her skills to find the best outcomes. Committed to education, training, and support for roofing contractors, she helps to ensure that the ultimate care and attention is given to every roof.
As a trailblazer for empowering and educating women in roofing, Abbona’s leadership and expertise are evident in her role as the VP for the National Women in Roofing South Florida Council (NWiR). Her commitment to education, safety, and excellence in roofing is also seen in her involvement on the board of directors for the Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida (RCASF). Last February, she worked on the Inaugural RCASF Educational Training Day that hosted 256 roofing contractors in South Florida. Her role on the board allows her to help foster her commitment to educating and raising the bar in the roofing industry, supporting local charity partners, re-roofing homes for those in need, holiday toy drives, and helping critically ill children. Abbona exemplifies the work-life balance; she and her family love to enjoy time with nature and learn new customs and traditions.
34. Carlee Ludwig
VP, Estimating, Mid-Atlantic Mechanical
Carlee Ludwig is a distinguished construction professional with over a decade of experience at Mid Atlantic Mechanical. She holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Architecture from NJIT, giving her a rare blend of technical expertise and artistic vision.
An active member of the National Association of Women in Construction, Professional Women in Construction, and MCAANJ Women in the Mechanical Industry, she is passionate about developing more women in the construction industry. She is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP).
Her career recognitions include being named one of New Jersey's Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs in 2018, and most recently being named to the prestigious NJBiz 40 Under 40 list in 2023. Carlee holds an NJ Master HVAC license and owns an electrical contracting business with branches in central and southern New Jersey.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Carlee is strongly committed to giving back to the community; her family operates a vegetable farm in Monmouth County, NJ, and donates food and sales proceeds to local charities. She is passionate about real estate investing, particularly residential renovation/flipping and commercial syndication. Carlee most enjoys spending time with her family - husband, Keith, and two children, Aiden, and Adelaide - and traveling whenever possible. Carlee is a true inspiration, continually pushing the boundaries of innovation and making a significant impact in the realm of construction and design.
35. Francisca Alonso
Co-Founder & CEO, AV Architects + Builders
Partners in business and life, husband and wife team Francisca and Antonio Alonso are the creative force behind AV Architects + Builders. They met at the School of Architecture at the Catholic University of America in 1987. In 2001, after the birth of their fourth child, they decided to change directions from working in large architecture firms in the Washington DC area and founded AV Architects. Within a year, they formed AV Builders and created their unique architect-led design-build approach to designing and building modern custom homes. The philosophy for designing and building modern custom homes as the master builder is the cornerstone of the business.
With family backgrounds in Spain and having both lived there, the two shared an affinity for the Mediterranean lifestyle and the way the architecture reflects that lifestyle. This lifestyle philosophy has resulted in designing homes in the Mid-Atlantic region with a unique modern aesthetic. Their concept of vacation-style living encompasses this lifestyle philosophy and incorporates connecting the home to the land and creating a strong indoor-outdoor relationship to link family life to nature, resulting in a sustainable design approach.
For over 20 years, the couple has been creating visions by fusing their knowledge and skills with their client’s needs and desires. This vision for their home is transformed into a real-life space that’s uniquely personalized to their needs, their dreams, and their lifestyle.
36. Kimberlee Herndon (Cirillo)
Director of Business Development, PROTECS
Kimberlee Herndon (Cirillo) is the Director of Business Development at PROTECS, a leading design-build construction management and project management company that serves the life sciences and advanced technology markets. In this role, she is responsible for leading sales, marketing, and communications efforts throughout the organization including offices in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, North Carolina, and Utah.
Kimberlee is a dynamic business development, marketing, and communications leader with a demonstrated history of working in construction management, engineering, and architecture industries for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, R&D, S&T, and advanced technology markets. She is skilled in strategic planning, communications, networking, sales, media, event management, graphic design, and proposal management. Kimberlee is a forward-thinking professional who effectively blends her business acumen with her public relations and marketing background. She holds a Master of Arts in Public Relations and a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship from Rowan University located in Glassboro, NJ. Kimberlee was the recipient of the Donald Bagin Gold Medallion, a medallion in honor of Donald Bagin, founder of the PR graduate program, and given to a graduate student who has earned a superior academic GPA, has shown significant work or internship experience, and shows a potential for substantial contribution to the Public Relations field.
Kimberlee is actively involved within the life sciences community and is the Chair of Women In Bio's (WIB) Philadelphia-Metro Communications Committee. The WIB-Philadelphia Metro chapter is an organization of professionals actively committed to promoting careers, leadership, and entrepreneurship of women in the life sciences in the Philadelphia tri-state area. PROTECS is a proud sponsor of WIB and it supports numerous valuable organizations in which Kimberlee is involved in such as Women We Admire, The International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineering, The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Montgomery County, Bisnow, The Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce, Delaware Bio and BioUtah.
Kimberlee is the Founder and CEO of Canvas Cures, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fundraising for children with serious illnesses through artwork. Canvas Cures is partnered with children's hospitals and organizations, such as Shriner's Hospitals for Children. In her spare time, Kimberlee enjoys hiking, traveling, and photography.
37. Christie Hendricks
Director of Marketing & Culture, Abstract Construction
Christie Hendricks has been a dynamic force in the commercial construction industry since 2015. Growing up in the Midwest, Christie began her career in business development for a prominent general contractor, where she honed her skills and laid the foundation for her future successes. During this time, she also served as the co-chairwoman for the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, playing a crucial role as a highly visible advocate for the Chamber. In this capacity, she assisted businesses in celebrating their achievements through ribbon cuttings and groundbreaking, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in the community.
Christie's journey in the industry has been marked by a relentless drive for innovation and excellence. This drive has led her to her current role as the Director of Marketing and Culture at Abstract Construction, a leader in commercial construction based in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Under Christie's direction, the company has continued to thrive and expand its influence in the industry.
Christie's innovative approach and dedication were recognized when she was honored with the prestigious Marketing Maverick of the Year award from the American Marketing Association of DFW in May 2024. This accolade is a testament to her ability to lead with creativity and vision, significantly impacting both her company and the broader industry.
Christie has also shared her expertise as a panelist on the Dallas Business Journal's Women in Construction Expert Panel, where she contributed valuable insights alongside other prominent women leaders.
Christie excels in leadership, brand management, strategic planning, communication, and cultivating a vibrant organizational culture. Christie is a formidable advocate for women in commercial real estate and a driving force behind Abstract Construction's continued growth and innovation.
39. Melissa Reynolds
Director, Engineering and Capital Programs, City of Seguin
Melissa Reynolds is the Director of Engineering and Capital Programs of the City of Seguin. Seguin is a growing community 30 minutes east of San Antonio along the Guadalupe River.
Reynolds is a professional engineer with demonstrated success in the government administration industry with a focus on land development planning, stormwater design, and floodplain protection. She has over 15 years of experience working in an extremely high-growth region, building and maintaining public-private partnerships for the greater good. She has a passion for environmental protection, floodplain management, and watershed protection.
A professional engineer and certified floodplain manager, Reynolds earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration from The University of Texas at Arlington. She has a passion for improving the future of Texas by ensuring smart growth and responsible development by preserving floodplains and natural ecosystems while finding innovative means of creating economic returns. She believes in the engineering profession and positive governance with responsible regulation.
40. Tracey Shuck
VP, Administration, Acadian Group
Tracey Shuck is an accomplished executive with a track record of driving operational excellence and program success. With a career spanning over 20 years, she has established herself as a leader in optimizing processes, enhancing team performance, and delivering results that exceed organizational goals.
Currently, serving as the Vice President of Administration at the Acadian Group, Shuck brings a wealth of experience in operational strategy and program management. Her role involves overseeing complex projects, leading cross-functional teams, and implementing innovative solutions that streamline operations and boost efficiency. Her strategic vision and hands-on approach have been instrumental in achieving key milestones and advancing the company’s strategic objectives. Shuck excels in meeting individuals, where they are and recognizing their unique strengths and areas for improvement. Her leadership style is deeply rooted in empathy and support, which helps her elevate employees' work experiences and highlight their contributions to the organization. She is dedicated to understanding personal and professional challenges and works to enhance both aspects to improve overall performance and satisfaction.
Beyond her professional achievements, Shuck is passionate about helping people who need a helping hand, reflecting her dedication to personal growth and community engagement.
42. Frankiana Bencosme
Business Development Manager, BlueTeam
Frankiana Bencosme is the Business Development Manager at BlueTeam, a national, non-franchised general contracting firm that specializes in commercial restoration, roofing, and capital improvements. Bencosme oversees disaster recovery, water damage restoration, fire and smoke clean-up, full reconstruction, roofing, capital improvements, emergency services, mold remediation, environmental services, commercial reconstruction, and flood response.
Previously, Bencosme was the director of business development at DBK, Inc. Her core proficiencies encompass market analysis, comprehensive business planning, adept negotiations, effective relationship management, and astute services marketing. She harnesses these skills to identify and exploit emerging trends, untapped opportunities, and niche markets within the commercial and multifamily construction sector. Her collaborative efforts with engineers and architects, along with the management of key accounts and strategic partnerships, consistently result in surpassing customer expectations. Moreover, she implements competitive sales strategies to optimize market share.
Beyond her professional achievements, Bencosme is a devoted mother of three, who stands as her unwavering support system, significantly contributing to her ongoing success.
View the complete list of awardees.
43. Nichole Bottini
VP, Comdor LLC
Nichole Bottini is a Vice President of Comdor, LLC in Fairfax, VA. Comdor LLC is a full-service commercial door, frame, and hardware supplier for GCs and end-users across the United States.
Bottini has worked in all facets of Comdor LLC – from warehouse operations to estimating to project accounting. She is an active member of the Door and Hardware Institute, specifically serving as a contributing writer and Media and Editorial Board member for the Door Security + Safety magazine. She also serves as a member of the National Association of Women and Construction and Associated Builders and Contractors. Bottini has a passion for philanthropy and leads Comdor in participating in community involvement and outreach.
Bottini earned a Master of Arts in Spanish Literature from the University of South Florida in Tampa and held a successful 10-year career as an educator in the Virginia Independent School System before beginning her journey at Comdor. As a result of her experience in education, Bottini works diligently to promote workforce development in the trades and coordinated a partnership between Prince William County Public Schools Career, the Technical Development program, and Comdor to help destigmatize trade work and demonstrate the value of the Division 08 industry.
44. Katie McCrary
Director of People & Culture, McCrary West Construction
Katie McCrary is the Director of People and Culture at McCrary-West Construction in Columbus, MS. She manages all safety and employee relations, recruitment of new employees, and recognizes employees’ talents so that they might receive the greatest joy from their work.
McCrary has been a member of the management board for Global Connections since 2009, working with the organization’s Kenyan partners monthly on budgets for partner programs, monthly expenses, global socially responsible investing, and workforce development for merging oppressed populations.
McCrary is passionate about workforce development, small business development, and sustainable humanitarian aid development. She serves as a commission member for the Create Foundation and is a committee member for the State of Mississippi’s Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation Fund. She is also a founding member of the FORGE Foundation. McCrary graduated from Mississippi University for Women with an undergraduate degree in marketing management.
45. Tarolyn Buckles
President and CEO, Onyx Enterprise Inc.
Tarolyn Buckles is the President and CEO of Onyx Enterprise, Inc., established in 2007. Onyx Enterprise, Inc. is an award-winning certified Woman and Minority Owned civil engineering and construction firm headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, and offices in Atlanta Georgia, Cleveland, OH, and St. Pete, FL.
Onyx recently won the US Chamber of Commerce Minority Construction Firm of the Year, the highest national award honored in Washington, DC. Ms. Buckles is the Small Business Person of the Year Best Small Business in Michigan; Crain's Notable Women in STEM awardee; Crain’s Notable Women in Construction, Design and Architecture; Michigan 50 Companies to Watch; EY Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist; Entrepreneur of the Year Black Slate; Michigan Chronicle Women of Excellence Awardee; NSBE National Society of Black Engineers Golden Torch Entrepreneur of the Year; and NAWIC-National Association of Women In Construction Crystal Vision Awardee. Onyx is the only MBE/WBE Black Female Tier One Material Testing DBE certified firm in Michigan.
Tarolyn Buckles is also with three (3) other firms Partner of the A/E Collaborative, LLC. (AEC) Architecture and Engineering firm in Detroit; Green Energy Ennovations, LLC. (Electric Vehicles Charging Stations and Solar Technology); and EMppwer Charge Alliance, LLC. (EMCA) EV and Solar Workforce Development.
Ms. Buckles serves on the University of Michigan College of Civil Engineering Board as former Chair and Vice President. She is the Co-Founder and Chair of the National Association of Minority Consulting Engineers (NAMCE) - Detroit Chapter and is also active in many organizations ACEC, NABWIC, and COMTO. Ms. Buckles was appointed by the Detroit Mayor as the Board of Wrecking/ Demolition Commissioner.
Onyx signature projects are major freeway I-94, I-69, I-75, M-102 8 Mile bridge and roadway construction engineering inspection, M-1 Rail, I-94 Bridge Municipal Utility design and construction engineering services; the DWSD Technical Advisor, DWSD Construction Inspection services (Prime Consultant), DWSD As Needed Engineering, Detroit Speed Humps, Detroit Joe Louis Greenway, Detroit Streetscapes (Livernois, Rosa Parks, Warren, McNichols), and Detroit Metro Airport Dingell Tunnel and On-Call Professional Services Taxiway Y, the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) Program Management Owners Rep $700M bond program (new schools and renovations) design and construction services, Huntington Place Convention Center Owners Rep, Bedrock Gratiot Civil Engineering (Detroit Innovation Center), Henry Ford Health Hospital-Destination Grand expansion civil engineering and construction, and Stellantis Mopar Restroom Renovations. Onyx also was the General Contractor for the Walker Miller Energy Building Renovations and installation of four (4) ChargePoint Electric Vehicle Charging Stations.
Ms. Buckles is an advocate for diversity and is a mentor for many young upcoming engineers, architects, and construction professionals.
46. Joy Guinn
Partner & Principal, Guinn Consulting Engineers
Joy Guinn is a role model for many women due to her impressive career achievements and her dedication to empowering others. Her journey in the engineering industry, a field traditionally dominated by men, showcases her resilience, determination, and exceptional leadership skills. Guinn’s ability to break through barriers and achieve significant milestones, such as earning prestigious certifications and being recognized with numerous awards, serves as an inspiration to women aspiring to excel in their careers.
Guinn’s commitment to mentorship and professional development is particularly admirable. She actively supports and guides team members, helping them to grow and succeed. Her focus on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment demonstrates her belief in the importance of lifting others as she climbs. This approach not only enhances the capabilities of the teams she works with but also creates a supportive network, where women can thrive and reach their full potential. Throughout her career, Guinn has demonstrated exceptional skills in management, marketing, and communications. She has successfully led strategic planning, capture planning, and internal staff training for firms of various sizes. She is adept at developing marketing strategies, managing complex proposal efforts, and coordinating marketing and business development activities. Her expertise extends to branding, public relations, and coaching/mentoring, where she has forged strong relationships with clients and led efforts to penetrate new markets.
Currently, Guinn serves as a Partner, Principal, and majority owner at Guinn Consulting Engineers, where she continues to drive business growth and innovation for small to medium-sized architecture, engineering, and construction firms. She graduated from West Virginia University with an undergraduate degree in marketing with minors in communications and management.
View the complete list of awardees.