The construction industry is changing fast, and several women are leading the way in 2026. From inventing better safety gear to running billion-dollar data center projects, these leaders are proving that the job site is for everyone. Here are the ten most influential women in construction who are breaking barriers and showing us all what is possible in the trades.

1. Katy Robinson, Senior Project Manager and PPE Campaigner

Katy Robinson made history in late 2025 when she was named the UK’s Most Influential Woman in Construction. She is a Senior Project Manager for a local government council, but her biggest impact has been her fight for inclusive personal protective equipment (PPE). For years, many women in construction had to wear gear designed for men, which was often loose, uncomfortable, and even dangerous.

Katy spearheaded a massive campaign that reached over 6 million people and led to the creation of a new British Standard (BS 30417) for inclusive PPE. Because of her work, thousands of women now have access to safety gear that actually fits their bodies. She is a perfect example of how one person can identify a problem on the job site and lead a global change to fix it.

2. Nour Hachem, Founder and President of Build a Dream

Nour Hachem is a workforce disruptor who is changing how young women think about their careers. She founded Build a Dream after watching her own mother work hard in a male-dominated auto parts business. Today, Nour has spoken to over 70,000 families and helped secure over $30 million in funding to get more women into the trades, STEM, and emergency response.

In 2025, Nour was named one of the most influential people in construction by SiteNews. She is known for creating hands-on “career expos” that let students try out tools and technology firsthand. Her work is results-focused; she helps companies build inclusive cultures and gives women the confidence to aim for high-paying, leadership roles in the industry. 

Check out our feature interview with Nour here!

3. Tessa Ferzli, Red Seal Mason and Co-Founder of Women on Site

Tessa Ferzli is a “boots on the ground” leader who is inspiring a new generation of tradeswomen. She is a Red Seal Mason, which means she has reached the highest level of skill in her craft. Tessa co-founded an organization called Women on Site to help women in the trades connect with one another. She uses social media to show what a real day on a job site looks like. Tessa is proof that you can be an influencer while working with your hands every single day.

4. Nancy Novak, Chief Innovation Officer at Compass Datacenters

Nancy Novak is a powerful force in the world of construction tech. With over 30 years of experience, she now oversees the delivery of billions of dollars in sustainable data center projects. Nancy is disrupting the “old way” of doing things by pushing for greater automation and on-site digital tools.

She is also a huge advocate for “extending the ladder” to other women. Nancy hosts a popular podcast where she interviews female leaders in technology and construction to share their advice. Her goal is to shift the industry from a “one-off project” mindset to a “scalable product” mindset, making construction more eco-friendly for future generations.

5. Allison Scott, Director of Sustainability Growth & Engagement at Autodesk

Allison Scott works at the intersection of construction and technology. At Autodesk, she helps construction firms turn big ideas like “sustainability” into real-world actions. She is a leading voice on how “industrialized construction”, using factory-made parts and robotics, can help solve the labor shortage.

Allison is also a champion for the “digital thread.” This is the idea that data should flow smoothly from the initial design through the final handoff of a building. By making construction data-driven, she is helping the industry become less wasteful and more predictable. Her work is essential for any construction pro who wants to understand how AI and automation will change their daily work.

6. Tannis Liviniuk, CEO of Liviniuk Group

Tannis Liviniuk started her career in the field and worked her way up to become one of the top digital strategy experts in the industry. Decades ago, she was once told she couldn’t make it in construction; today, she is the person major firms call when they want to modernize their job sites.

Tannis is an expert in using AI and data to accelerate and improve project scheduling. She is a frequent speaker at big events like the Project Control Summit, where she teaches others how to use technology to solve complex logistics problems. She has built a massive following on LinkedIn by sharing honest, helpful advice about leadership and the future of “smart” construction.

7. Sandra Astolfo, Partner at WeirFoulds LLP

Beyond the realm of moving dirt and pouring concrete, there are laws and contracts that keep those projects moving. Sandra Astolfo is one of the most respected construction lawyers in North America. She was the first woman to win a major award for excellence in construction law from the Ontario Bar Association. Sandra helps companies navigate big risks and settle tough disputes. She’s walking proof that you can have a massive influence on the job site even if you work in a boardroom.

8. Jennifer Price, President and CEO of McElhanney

Jennifer Price is a leader who believes that engineers have a duty to help solve big world problems. As the head of McElhanney, she oversees a massive team that works on projects across Canada, from transportation to land development. Jennifer is a “barrier-breaker” who started her career as a chemical engineer and worked her way through senior roles at major firms like AECOM and Buro Happold. She is very passionate about making the path easier for the next generation of women in STEM and is a frequent speaker on how innovation and sustainability will change our cities for the better.

9. Sarah Petrevan, Vice President of Sustainability at the Cement Association of Canada

Sarah Petrevan is a leader in the “green” construction movement. Her current role is centered around cement and concrete, the most widely used building material in the world. Sarah’s goal is to help the industry reach “net-zero” carbon emissions. She works with the government and companies to find ways to build roads and buildings that do not hurt the planet. Because of her work, the future of construction will be much cleaner and more sustainable for everyone.

If you enjoyed learning about these trailblazers, check out these other guides from our library designed specifically for women in the trades:

• 7 common symptoms women should never ignore: a guide for women in the trades
• Building strength from the inside out: Why pelvic floor health matters for women in construction and beyond
• Mother’s day gifts for women in trades
• On the path to construction: The rise of women safety consultants
• National mentoring program launches for women in skilled trades
• How to attract more women to the construction industry

Want to stay updated on the leaders and tech trends shaping our industry? Subscribe to our newsletter to get more stories like this delivered straight to your inbox every week!

Lexis Czumak-Abreu, better known online as “Lex the Electrician,” is using her platform to change the way people view construction careers. Through humor, education, and authentic storytelling, she’s making the skilled trades accessible and inspiring the next generation to pick up a tool belt.

Who is Lexis Czumak-Abreu?

Lexis Czumak-Abreu is a licensed electrician based in Massachusetts. She is part of a new wave of young people proving that the trades are valuable and exciting. She chose a hands-on career path at a time when many of her peers were told that college was the only option. Instead, she saw opportunity in the construction industry and built her career around it.

Known online as “Lex the Electrician,” she has grown into more than just a tradesperson. She is also an influencer and role model who shares her journey with thousands of followers. For many, she represents the changing face of the industry: skilled, creative, and proud to wear the tool belt.

How Lexis Czumak-Abreu is building influence in construction

Abreu has built a substantial following by sharing her life as an electrician on social media. Her primary platform is Instagram, where she posts under the username @lextheelectrician. She also has a presence on TikTok and has been featured in trade media that recognizes her as part of a growing movement of young influencers in construction.

She has built a following of thousands, and people inside and outside the trades pay attention to her posts. She mixes humor with everyday jobsite moments, which makes her content easy to connect with. From showcasing how she handles tough installations to sharing small wins on the job, her videos offer a genuine look at what it’s like to be an electrician. This makes her posts relatable for other electricians and also exciting for people curious about the career.

Many of her Instagram reels have gone viral, highlighting the pride she takes in her work. Clips of her wiring panels and explanations of basic concepts have inspired viewers and helped remove the mystery surrounding what electricians actually do. Abreu mixes real job-site clips with messages that encourage and inspire. Her posts teach people about electrical work while also keeping it fun to watch. She shows that the trades can grab attention online just like any other career.

From jobsite to side hustle

For Abreu, content creation has become more than a hobby. It is now an extension of her trade skills and a way to grow her career beyond the jobsite. By sharing her daily work and experiences online, she has opened the door to sponsorships and collaborations with construction and tool brands that value her authentic voice. These partnerships help connect her expertise as an electrician with products and companies that serve the industry.

Lexis’s work online has caught national attention. She was featured in The Wall Street Journal as one of several Gen Z creators helping to make plumbing, electrical, and construction jobs look appealing to young people. Her influence now reaches well beyond her own followers, shaping how many people see the trades.

Balancing her job and her online work is not always easy. Lexis talks about the long days she spends on the job and then the extra hours needed to edit videos, reply to comments, and work with brands. Even with these challenges, she continues to find ways to share her passion for electrical work while growing as a creator. This shows her dedication to both her trade and her goal of giving the public a real look at what life in the trades is like.

To see what a day in the life of an electrician looks like, check out her video on Youtube below:

Why it matters for the future of construction

Abreu’s impact extends beyond her own job. By sharing her story, she shows Gen Z that the trades can be a good career choice. Her posts highlight how working with your hands can bring steady pay, pride in your work, and a solid future. This message connects with young people who may not see themselves in traditional four-year college programs but want a future with purpose and opportunity.

She also brings much-needed representation to the industry. As a young woman in electrical work, Abreu demonstrates that the trades are not limited by gender. Her visibility helps break stereotypes and shows that construction can be inclusive for anyone who has the passion and skill. For young women who may hesitate to enter the field, seeing her success can be a powerful motivator.

On a broader level, Abreu is helping bridge the gap between construction and social media. By making electrical work visible on Instagram and TikTok, she introduces the field to audiences who may have never considered it before. She is showing the public that construction is also about creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. Her work is part of that shift, helping to redefine how the next generation sees the industry.

Bottom line

Lexis Czumak-Abreu is one of many young leaders transforming the way people perceive construction. Across social media, tradespeople are sharing their skills, daily routines, and personal stories in ways that inspire and educate. 

Check out more spotlights on the builders, creators, and entrepreneurs redefining construction, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay connected with the latest stories:

• 15 Construction Influencers
• 14 must-watch home renovation shows to inspire your next DIY project

TikTok is a mixed bag of short-form video. Some posts are highly tailored, overproduced content from influencers who invest thousands in crafting each clip. Others are down-to-earth influencers who offer audiences a simple glimpse into everyday joy. For Chaz Arro, falling into the latter category came naturally, and the payoff looked like millions of likes in just a matter of months. Here’s how he went from construction foreman to social media titan so quickly. 

Who is Chaz Arro?

Chaz Arro grew up in San Jose, California, and has worked full-time for his uncle’s company in underground utility construction for the past 22 years. At the age of 40, Chaz is now a site foreman, working with crews to handle pipe installation and trenching for gas, water, storm, and electrical needs. The company works in the broader San Jose area. 

Chaz has been a casual TikTok and Instagram user, never thinking to strive for influencer stardom. But since blowing up in 2024, Chaz’s @Chazjason TikTok account has garnered over 185,000 followers and millions of views. And the on-site concept was so simple, it was accidental. 

How Chaz Arro is building influence in construction

At work, Chaz and his crew would often make an event out of a particular bright spot in between periods of hard work: Lunch. 

In July 2024, Chaz decided to post what he calls a “lunch check!” where he walks up to his crew, primarily Mexican workers, and asks what they’ve got packed for lunch. As the team excitedly opens their containers one at a time, they’re each met with a resounding “oooh” and “ahh” from their colleagues. It’s a time to hype each other up, admire the lunch-packer’s hard work, and maybe express a hint of jealousy. 

Check out one of his most popular lunch checks below:

The unique combination of humour, storytelling through food, cultural focus, and wholesome energy tore through TikTok and Instagram like a wildfire. Millions began commenting daily on the “fine dining” meals that many of the crew brought, and some users even started to identify crew favorites. 

As of now, the new primary account has almost 207,000 TikTok followers, and their Instagram account has nearly caught up with 170,000 followers. Each near-daily post generates almost 50,000 views across both platforms, and the fandom shows no signs of slowing. 

From jobsite to side hustle

An unexpected part of social media stardom? How lucrative it is. Chaz’s accounts now accept brand deals and sponsorships, and companies like Pepsi have partnered with the crew on multiple occasions to pair themselves with the elaborate lunchtime meals. 

Some fans have raised concerns about the partnerships, asking Chaz if the revenue generated from the sponsorships is distributed among everyone featured in the video, to which he confirms. Others are happy to see genuine, fun, hard-working crew members making a little more for themselves by doing what they love. 

The best part for Chaz is that balancing their on-site jobs and content creation comes easily. The videos are filmed in one take, with minimal editing, and eating lunch together is a daily ritual. This means the content people want is simple, repeatable, and scalable. 

Why construction needs more people like Chaz Arro

If you were to ask Chaz yourself, he wouldn’t consider himself a construction influencer. But he says that while the world is full of noise and negativity, Lunch Check can bring a universal language of love. Everyone can relate to discovering something delicious. 

The construction industry has long been attempting to fill the growing labor gap. The work itself has a bad reputation for being non-diverse, unsafe, and toxic. Chaz’s warm-hearted, inclusive content could make a significant impact in attracting women, Gen Z, and other underrepresented minorities to the industry. 

The videos also shed light on Mexican culture and how Mexican values of community, love, and kinship can be shared through something as simple as food. Positively spotlighting minority communities is particularly impactful now, in times of great divide and immigration uncertainty. These videos naturally bring everyone together, while leaving out preachiness and politics. 

More people are reshaping construction

It takes a village to reshape the construction industry. If you’re looking to learn more about the individuals doing the heavy lifting to make the industry a better place to work, check out these articles. 

• Alisa Bailey on building a career in construction
• Building smarter job sites with Scott Peters
• Tia Perry and AEC Unites: Empowering Black professionals in construction
• The future of safety in construction with Raffi Elchemmas
• Safety, mental fitness, and the future of construction: A conversation with Ian Gray

Subscribe to the Under the Hard Hat newsletter and follow us on LinkedIn to check out more spotlights on creators, builders, and entrepreneurs redefining construction.

How to become a successful contractor 

Identify your business goals

To kick off business growth, you first need to determine your goals. You should set short-term and long-term goals and consider how you define success. Consider your location, project experience, lifestyle, and salary, and which goals make sense with your construction expertise and those factors in mind. Then, you can map out a plan of action to reach them. 

Consider sharing your goals with mentors or friends in the industry. They can hold you accountable and keep you in mind for future references or referrals. 

Create a marketing plan

Strategic marketing campaigns can help future clients distinguish your contracting services from the competition. Consider your market angle and the specific benefits or niche services you offer. When advertising, highlight those differentiating features in social media posts, on your website, in your email list, and on job listing websites. 

Your advertising approach and brand voice could impact your success. So lean into something niche, enticing, and applicable to your location.

Find your first client 

There are a few places where you could find your first client. You should be diversifying your outreach strategy, meaning your first client could come from: 

• An ad
• A referral
• A family member or friend 
• A networking connection
• An application to a job posting

Deliver exceptional service

Once you have your first client, make sure you deliver exceptional service. There are many contractors in your niche who could get the job done, but being professional, friendly, easy to work with, and offering competitive pricing could make you more memorable for the rest. 

Delivering exceptional service is also your ticket to more referrals, testimonials, and business in the future. 

Gather testimonials and reviews

After offering exceptional service, ask your customers for a friendly testimonial. Most clients would be happy to sing your praises, and you can use these testimonials for your website, ads, and social media. 

Trust from the community is a major selling factor for new clients researching your services and could lead to an uptick in business. 

Ask for referrals

When a job is done well, people talk. Ask your clients, especially any you have gone above and beyond for, for a referral for new business. You might be surprised by how well-connected people are and how lucrative that could be for you. 

You could also incentivize clients to give you a referral with a future discount or an add-on to your current services with them. 

Build your professional network

A professional network is the key to finding new opportunities to connect with new potential customers. Your network might come from online groups, from social platforms like LinkedIn, by attending events, or just by doing great work with different organizations. 

Your network also helps you stay in the know about the latest industry news and tech innovations. 

The 12 traits most successful contractors have in common 

Before you start a contracting career it’s important to consider the traits successful contractors have in common. The majority of these traits can be learned and developed, but it does help if you’re already skilled in some before starting your own business. This could give you an indication of whether or not you’ll have a chance at success early on. 

1. Excellent communication skills

As part of their work, contractors collaborate with various professional stakeholders, such as property owners, business owners, and general contractors. Successful contractors have perfected their communication skills to make these interactions productive and professional in any context. 

Professional communication should be the goal verbally and in written form, which is particularly important when negotiating contracts, confirming scheduling, and relaying status reports via email.

2. Conflict resolution ability

Delays, disruptions, and worker tensions could run high on any construction site. When things become even a little disorganized, it can quickly go from a smooth operation to a war zone. Being able to calmly regroup from issues on the job site and course correct in a non-hostile way will be important for your career as a contractor. It shows you’re a quick thinker, a smart strategist, and ultimately, easy to work with for potential future projects. 

3. Strategic business planning 

Strategic business planning is as easy as setting a target and building a plan to reach it. It involves creating objectives, milestones, reasonable timelines, and confirming contractor responsibilities. The plans should be crafted in part by a good contractor and revisited periodically to ensure it’s on course to meet the target. 

4. Financial acumen 

When it comes to the business and financial side of their work, many contractors get lost. Some don’t invoice with software for their completed work, fail to follow up with unpaid invoices, and often provide free labor. 

Strong financial acumen could be the difference between a profitable contracting business and difficulty making ends meet. Poor cash flow sinks more contractors and businesses than any other factor. Expanding too quickly without scaling your finances is a significant cause of poor finances and cash flow. In short, learn how to manage your cash. 

5. Effective negotiation skills

Strong negotiating skills are arguably one of the most important traits successful contractors have in common. Contractors across all niches need to negotiate the rates they charge for their labor. Women in construction especially need to refine this skill and advocate for themselves, as the disparity and wage gap are especially apparent in construction.

Successful contractors should also be familiar with the appropriate rates for their niche and location. They use this information to confidently ask for the best possible rates. 

6. Leadership ability 

No construction project is built by one person. Every construction business has owners, general contractors, subcontractors, and other specialized individuals to get the work done. 

As a contractor on a job site, show the project owners and other workers that you can be depended on, can help organize and manage the team, delegate tasks, and actively help progress the project to completion. 

7. Highly organized 

A contractor’s role is complex both on and off the job site. Organizations can help contractors by outlining roles and deliverables, but it’s up to the individual contractor to carry things out as expected. Organizational habits like showing up on schedule every day, keeping meticulous records, invoicing on time, and executing work efficiently will build your reputation as a highly organized contractor. 

8. High risk tolerance

Many workers and contractors have a difficult time naturally understanding and mitigating risks. Every project has risks, but some workers are too focused on the end completion to pay attention to the present. 

Will you get your required materials and resources? Will your subcontractors perform as expected? Will there be scheduling or weather delays? These are some common risks that could impact the job, and every contractor needs to be adaptable to properly course-correct so the project reaches the finish line.

9. Attention to detail

Because every role and task on the job is so intricate, little details often go unnoticed. Every good contractor needs to be detail-oriented, whether noticing a safety assessment with a cut corner, a typo in an invoice, or a slightly defective piece of equipment. 

Being in tune with small details makes you look more professional and protects your business and your physical safety. 

10. Ability to problem solve and think critically

Being detail-oriented goes hand in hand with the ability to think critically. Problem-solving and critical thinking involve assessing the information available to you, understanding why and how those details could create blockers, and then building a plan to overcome them. 

These skills translate on the site and in scaling your business. By identifying issues with the physical work and your marketing, you can be more productive and ultimately more profitable. 

11. Continuous learners

As a contractor, you probably originally learned your trade skills some time ago. Construction companies are often slow to adopt new technologies, from software to new machinery. Staying on top of technology, operational efficiency, and even new safety protocols could be the deciding factor for your next new client looking to hire. 

12. Mastery of online media 

Marketing is important, and with that comes a responsive and strong online presence. Email campaign platforms, easy website builders, and even AI-powered communication tools can help you maximize your outreach without compromising your time spent on site. 

Final thoughts

Strategizing to scale your business as a contractor will be your most important job. Knowing what traits successful contractors have in common can help you make the right decision if this field is for you. Starting out is all about creating a marketing plan, delivering quality service, and growing your network. 

All successful contractors have conflict resolution skills, leadership ability, risk tolerance, and continuously learn and adapt to new processes and technologies. By making these traits a natural habit, you’ll see your business boom in no time. 

Want more insights on careers in construction? Follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to the newsletter to get insights delivered straight to your inbox.

When it comes to a company’s success, the foundation isn’t just in the services or products they offer—it’s in the leadership that drives the team forward. Leadership, quite simply, sets the tone for everything: how employees feel about their work, how they perform, and ultimately, how the company grows and thrives. 

As the saying goes, “People don’t leave jobs; they leave managers.” A company with solid leadership fosters a culture of trust, innovation, and engagement, which translates into tangible success.

This is especially true in construction industries, where leadership is critical in navigating high-pressure situations and delivering on complex projects. Construction leaders don’t just manage people and timelines—they set the bar for how teams communicate, collaborate, and overcome challenges. Strong leadership isn’t just important in an industry known for its demanding pace and high stakes—it’s essential for a company’s performance and long-term success.

The role of leadership in shaping company culture

Leaders set the tone, define the culture, and guide their teams through good times and challenges. “Leadership isn’t just a part of the company culture—it is the company culture,” says Erin Thorp, who has spent 20 years in the engineering and construction industries as a coach and mentor. Her experiences show that leadership is more than just managing tasks; it’s about leading with integrity, fostering open communication, and guiding the team toward a shared goal. 

Leadership isn’t just about having the right words plastered on a poster or a mission statement hanging in the office—authentic culture is built by actions, decisions, and behaviors. Leading with values, integrity, and a clear vision guides a team’s daily operations. “You may have a beautifully articulated desire of what you want to happen in your company… but if the day-to-day activities don’t match that, then you end up with a culture of how people are behaving, not what’s printed on the wall,” says Thorp.

One key responsibility of a leader is to model the behavior they expect from their team. When leaders “walk the talk,” they instill trust and create a culture that values accountability and consistency. This is especially crucial when tough decisions must be made during challenging situations. In these moments, leaders need to lean into difficult conversations rather than shy away from them. “It’s how I show up in those tough moments,” says Thorp. “Do I turn a blind eye, or do I actually approach and have a meaningful discussion?”

Leaders directly influence employee morale, retention, and productivity by leading with integrity, openness, and a commitment to the company’s values. When leaders are clear in their vision and consistent in their actions, employees feel supported and motivated, resulting in a more robust, productive workforce.

Good company culture drives success

Company culture isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the driving force behind how teams function, how employees feel about their work, and how well the company performs. When company culture is positive, it creates a ripple effect across daily operations, employee engagement, and overall success. Culture is about more than just having a “feel-good” environment. “If we take care of the person and understand where they’re coming from, you’ll see a return,” Thorp says. That return often comes from increased productivity, lower turnover, and higher morale.

In Thorp’s experience, despite its tough exterior, the construction industry is no different from other sectors that need a people-focused culture. Many leaders in construction believe their workforce only responds to strict deadlines and pressure, but that’s no longer the case. “The construction industry has a persona of being rough and tough,” she says, “but it’s the personal side of things that drives success.” She explains how younger generations entering the workforce are looking for more than just a paycheck—they want to balance work and life and feel valued as individuals.

This shift is reflected in the data. Studies show that companies with a strong, positive culture experience significant growth. For example, Gallup’s extensive research on employee engagement has consistently confirmed the relationship between engagement and critical business metrics, including customer loyalty, profitability, productivity, turnover, and safety. 

When leaders build a culture that values their people, it shows in daily operations and, ultimately, in the company’s success. Whether hitting deadlines, improving productivity, or retaining top talent, a positive culture sets the stage for sustainable growth.

Top traits of influential leaders

According to Erin, the key traits of influential leaders are communication, empathy, adaptability, and accountability. She refers to these as “power skills” that enable leaders to connect with their teams and make informed decisions. These qualities are essential, particularly in industries like construction, where collaboration can make or break a project.

Communication is at the heart of leadership. A leader who communicates openly and transparently fosters an environment where employees feel informed, valued, and empowered. As Erin Thorp highlights, communication isn’t just about sharing information and listening. “When leaders listen to understand and then take thoughtful, intentional action, that’s when employees start to feel seen and heard,” she explains. This communication type builds trust, leading to more engaged and motivated teams.

Adaptability is another must-have trait in today’s fast-paced business environment. Leaders need to pivot quickly when unexpected challenges arise, especially in industries like construction, where timelines and conditions can change instantly. Erin’s leadership approach during her airline hangar project exemplifies adaptability in action. Faced with delays and last-minute changes, she leaned into the challenge, adjusted plans, and kept the team focused on the end goal. Adaptable leaders like Erin show their teams that flexibility and resilience are part of the job, encouraging creative problem-solving and innovation.

Empathy is often underestimated, especially in traditionally challenging industries like construction. But as Erin points out, it’s a critical component of leadership. “Construction leaders are technically sound, but it’s the people skills—leading with empathy, making sure people feel heard—that drive success,” she says. Empathetic leaders build stronger relationships with their teams, creating a culture where employees are more likely to collaborate and go the extra mile because they feel valued and understood.

Finally, accountability is the trait that ties everything together. Leaders who hold themselves and others accountable create a culture of responsibility and integrity. Erin stresses the importance of walking the talk: “Leaders need to show up consistently, even in tough moments, to set the standard for accountability.” When employees see leaders taking ownership of their decisions, it motivates them to do the same, leading to higher performance and a more vital team dynamic.

“It’s the small, everyday moments that define leadership,” Erin notes. “Are you leaning into tough conversations or avoiding them? Are you listening to your team to understand or just to respond?” Leaders who practice these skills regularly cultivate trust and engagement within their teams. 

Good leadership and long-term growth

Good leadership drives daily operations and positions companies for long-term growth. Leaders who focus on continuous learning and adaptability can help their teams weather industry challenges like labor shortages or economic downturns. As Erin puts it, “When we listen with the intent to understand and take thoughtful action, we show our teams that we value their input.”

This is especially relevant in the construction industry, where shifting market demands require flexibility. Erin believes that companies investing in leadership development can create a sustainable culture that thrives even in tough times.

One of Erin’s most memorable projects involved building an airline hangar under intense time pressure. The team struggled to stay on schedule because of delays and the added challenge of an accelerated plane delivery. Erin recalls how daily conversations with various trades and stakeholders became critical to the project’s success. 

In these daily, tough conversations, Erin demonstrated the importance of staying calm and solution-focused, even when others became defensive or frustrated. At one point, she reminded a contractor, “Are you trying to win this conversation, or are you here to help find a solution?” This question shifted the team’s mindset from blame to collaboration, allowing them to refocus on the project’s completion. “We had to constantly remind ourselves that the goal was to deliver the project on time. It wasn’t about who was right or wrong; it was about coming together to find a solution.” 

This leadership approach—one focused on collaboration, empathy, and maintaining clear goals—allowed the team to finish the project on schedule despite the odds.

In addition to adaptability, leaders who prioritize continuous learning create a culture that is more equipped to handle long-term challenges. Erin emphasizes that leadership development isn’t a one-time event but a continuous process. “It’s not just about sending someone to a one-day course and expecting them to be a new leader,” she says. “It’s about constant practice and growth.” Leaders who invest in their development and encourage their teams to do the same build a culture of learning and innovation, which helps the company stay agile in the face of new trends and challenges.

Economic downturns and labor shortages can be particularly difficult for companies, especially in construction, where resources are often stretched thin. Erin points out that leaders committed to long-term success must lean into these moments rather than retreat from them. “You don’t have time not to lean into tough conversations,” she says. Leaders can guide their teams through difficult periods by addressing problems head-on, taking responsibility, and finding collaborative solutions while maintaining morale and focus.

Leaders committed to continuous learning and flexibility are better positioned to help their companies adapt to industry shifts, whether driven by economic factors or changes in workforce expectations. Erin notes that the younger generations entering the construction industry today have different priorities, such as work-life balance and personal growth. Leaders who can recognize and adapt to these trends will retain top talent and ensure their companies remain competitive in an evolving market.

Ultimately, leadership’s influence on a company’s resilience comes down to its ability to adapt, learn, and maintain a strong culture. Leaders who embrace these qualities create organizations that can survive challenges and are well-positioned to thrive in the long run.

Final thoughts

Leadership is a practice, not a one-time course. “It’s about constant practice and growth… You’ve got to put it into practice on the daily,” Thorp says. Businesses create environments where employees feel valued and motivated by prioritizing continuous learning and cultivating a positive, people-centered culture. Companies that invest in their leaders and culture will be best positioned for future success. As Thorp reminds us, “If we take care of the person, you’ll see a return.” Success truly starts at the top.

To learn more about Erin Thorp and how she can help you to create more successful leaders, visit her website at https://www.erinthorp.ca/.

When you think of construction, leadership isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind. But for Erin Thorp, a civil engineer turned leadership coach, it’s the foundation of every successful project. After more than two decades working in commercial, civil, and industrial construction across Alberta, Erin shifted her focus to training and coaching the next generation of leaders.

Her philosophy? Empathy is not a weakness but a tactical advantage. Under the Hard Hat sat down with Erin to talk about her career journey, the concept of “Tactical Empathy,” and why emotional intelligence is the future of construction leadership.

UTHH: Can you start by introducing yourself and sharing what you do?

Erin: I am a civil engineer by trade and when I was completing my degree, I did a 16-month internship with a construction company. That’s where I got bitten by the construction bug. I stayed in construction for 22 years, working on commercial, civil, light industrial, and heavy industrial projects in Alberta. I moved through project management, technical sales, and ultimately led construction teams.

Around the 20-year mark, I became really curious about leadership. I was in a leadership role myself and started helping new grads learn how to lead projects. When the pandemic hit, I had to pause that work to focus on project delivery. But I realized how much I missed leadership development. So in 2020, I transitioned full-time into leadership coaching. For the past five years, I’ve been training, facilitating, and coaching leaders in technical industries.

UTHH: What inspired you to take that leap into leadership coaching?

Erin: In 2016, I had a personal experience with a leader that changed everything. My daughter was diagnosed with learning disabilities, and I planned to quit my job to support her. When I told my leader, instead of just accepting my resignation, he asked thoughtful questions, explored options with me, and suggested a leave of absence so I’d have a job to return to.

It was a masterclass in empathy. He connected with what I was going through, helped me see options I couldn’t, and created a win-win for both of us. That experience got me really curious about empathy in leadership. I started journaling, which eventually turned into a book, Inside Out Empathy, published in 2017. I didn’t know then that I’d shift into leadership development, but I kept following those breadcrumbs.

UTHH: You often talk about something called “Tactical Empathy.” What does that mean?

Erin: When I first started talking about empathy, people dismissed it as a “soft skill.” They thought if you’re understanding, you can’t hold boundaries. But empathy doesn’t mean letting go of expectations. Tactical Empathy is about blending understanding with accountability.

It’s about leaning in to understand someone’s perspective which includes the owner, the contractor, and the designer while still holding expectations for quality, deadlines, and customer service. By unlocking different perspectives across generations and disciplines, you get better collaboration and outcomes.

UTHH: Construction is often known for miscommunication and conflict. How do you see the culture of the industry and Tactical Empathy helping to reduce conflict?

Erin: Our industry traditionally has set up a very adversarial relationship between designer, contractor, and owner. It’s kind of like we’ve got to go to battle. We armor up, protect our interests, and then everyone argues around the table. It becomes about who has the most stamina to win the fight.

What I want to see is a shift to “both/and” thinking. How does the designer get what they need, the contractor get what they need, and the owner get what they need? That’s where tactical empathy makes the difference.

Photo courtesy of Erin Thorp.

UTHH: Can you share an example of Tactical Empathy in action?

Erin: On my last project, we had to tie a new building into an old one. The drawings didn’t work, the contractor said it couldn’t be built, the designer wanted it exactly as drawn, and the owner needed it done on time and on budget.

Instead of fighting it out, I got everyone in a room and asked: designer, what’s most important aesthetically? Contractor, what do you need for integrity and warranty? Owner, what’s your priority? Once we knew everyone’s needs, we found a solution. The contractor mocked up two options, the designer picked one, and the owner’s priorities were met.

We finished on time and on budget with everyone liking each other at the end. That’s rare in construction.

UTHH: What tools can leaders use to apply empathy on the jobsite?

Erin: You have to explore and learn your own triggers. For years I was told I was “too emotional” but never given tools to manage it. What I wish someone had told me is: name what you’re feeling. You have to name it to tame it.

And I think it’s important to say: everyone shows emotion in construction. I’ve shed tears in a boardroom. I’ve also seen men bury hammers in the wall or throw chairs. The goal isn’t to stop feeling, it’s to recognize and name it, then ask: what do I need?

Maybe it’s a walk, maybe it’s waiting 24 hours to make a decision. Another tool is challenging the stories you tell yourself. For example, if a delivery is late, instead of assuming the supplier doesn’t care, I’d say: “The story I’m telling myself is that this project isn’t a priority for you. Is that true?” That opens a real conversation instead of escalating conflict.

UTHH: Why do you think construction has been slower to adopt emotionally intelligent leadership?

Erin: Traditionally, construction was led by a very narrow demographic and a command-and-control style. It worked well enough, so no one saw a reason to change. But today we have more diversity, more career options, and higher turnover. That tells us the old way isn’t working anymore.

People don’t just want to survive at work anymore, they want to thrive. To attract and keep talent, leaders need emotional intelligence.

UTHH: How does Tactical Empathy help when working across generations?

Erin: We all know we’ve got multi generations in the industry, and everyone comes with different lived experiences, different needs, wants, desires, feelings, and perspectives. It’s only when we can unlock those differences and really explore them that we get the power of the generations.

If we want the best problem solving, the most innovation, and the best collaboration, we have to take time to understand each other while holding expectations. That’s the future of leadership.

UTHH: For leaders who want to start practicing Tactical Empathy, where should they begin?

Erin: It starts with regulating your own emotions. Be kind to yourself, notice your limits, and recognize your own feelings. When you hide your struggles, you expect others to hide theirs. But when you acknowledge what you’re going through, it creates space for others to be real too.

It’s not about letting people off the hook, it’s about saying, “Here’s the goal. Here’s the expectation. What do you need to succeed?”

That’s also why my book is called “Inside Out Empathy.” It starts with you. 

UTHH: Do you think construction is a good career path for the next generation?

Erin: Absolutely. People often think of construction as just the trades, but there are so many professional roles too. I love that the conversation around trades has shifted. When I was in school, trades were seen as what you did if you couldn’t cut it at university. Today, it’s a real choice. Half of my son’s friends went to university, and the other half went into trades. Both are valuable.

What I love most is being able to point to something tangible. I can drive past projects I’ve built, stay in hotels I worked on, and share those stories with my kids. That sense of impact is incredibly rewarding.

UTHH: Can you tell us about your current work and how people can connect with you?

Erin: I run workshops ranging from lunch-and-learns to multi-day team development programs. We offer Tactical Empathy workshops, leadership development products like DISC®, Five Behaviors®, and SLII®, plus group and one-on-one coaching. I also do keynote speaking at town halls, kickoffs, and events.

You can reach me at www.erinthorp.ca or email me at hello@erinthorp.ca. And remember, there’s no “e” in Thorpe—otherwise you’ll reach a different Erin!

If you enjoyed this article and want to learn more, you can catch the full podcast episode here:

Thank you to Erin Thorp for joining us on the UTHH podcast and sharing her insights. To learn more about her work, visit her website or connect on LinkedIn. Want more stories like this? Subscribe to the newsletter and follow Under the Hard Hat on LinkedIn.