Industrial construction and bulk material handling have long been considered male-dominated fields. Yet, behind the towering grain terminals, high-performance processing plants, and complex industrial piping systems are women playing integral roles—engineering solutions, leading project teams, and ensuring seamless operations.
At FWS, the reality is clear: the industry is evolving, and the next wave of progress is being built with a diverse and skilled workforce. But the contributions of women in industrial construction remain vastly underrepresented in the conversation.
With a nationwide labor shortage impacting industrial construction, attracting and retaining skilled professionals is more critical than ever. Studies show that companies with higher gender diversity see measurable improvements in innovation, decision-making, and overall project performance.
"We can’t afford to ignore half the talent pool," says Kathleen Sylvestre, Director of Human Resources at FWS. "When you have a workforce that reflects different perspectives and experiences, you get stronger, smarter decision-making. It’s not just about representation—it’s about competitive advantage."
Beyond recruiting, FWS is committed to developing the next generation of leaders through mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities.
"I never imagined myself working in industrial construction," says Ana Prior, Administrative Professional at FWS. "But this industry is filled with opportunities to grow, learn, and make a real impact. That’s what keeps me here."
Across the industrial sector, companies are under immense pressure to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and meet rising sustainability standards. Women in engineering and construction management are at the forefront of these changes, leading Lean construction initiatives, introducing new technologies, and driving safety improvements.
"One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing is the adoption of more streamlined, data-driven project management methods," says Kevin Chody, Vice President of Operations at FWS. "And some of the most forward-thinking leaders in this space are women."
At FWS, female engineers, project leads, and estimators are actively enhancing operational efficiencies, optimizing materials handling, and reducing environmental impact—all while helping to manage some of North America’s most complex industrial projects.
A few key areas where women are leading:
The impact extends beyond technical contributions—women in leadership roles are helping reshape the culture of industrial construction, making it more adaptable, inclusive, and resilient.
"People often think of industrial construction as just heavy equipment and steel structures," says Jason Coreau, VP of Business Development at FWS. "But the truth is, success in this industry is about precision, strategic planning, and adaptability—qualities where diverse teams thrive."
What many don’t realize is that there are countless passionate, highly skilled women shaping the future of construction—from the boardroom to the job site. Their expertise isn’t always what comes to mind when people picture industrial construction, but their contributions are invaluable.
The industrial construction sector is undergoing a once-in-a-generation transformation, and women are playing an essential role in shaping its future. From driving efficiency and sustainability to strengthening workplace culture, their contributions are not just necessary—they are invaluable.
What’s even more striking is just how many women love this industry. Passionate professionals—whether they are project managers, engineers, or tradespeople—are making an impact every day. Their stories may not always be the ones featured in mainstream discussions about construction, but their work is critical in building the infrastructure that fuels industries, economies, and communities.
For the team at FWS, building beyond also means building a workforce that reflects the best of what the industry can be.
"We’re not just building projects—we’re building an industry that’s smarter, stronger, and ready for the future," says Brent Clegg, President & CEO at FWS.
And that future has never looked more promising.
