Angelica Barraza Senior Project Engineer | Shook Construction Company

What I find most inspiring about construction is being involved from the initial design phase all the way through completion. Seeing a concept evolve into a real, functional space is incredibly rewarding — and being able to say, ‘I helped bring this to life,’ is a truly special feeling. 

My first construction project was a commercial plaza — the first development of that scale in the area back in 2008, when there were no other stores nearby. The local community was incredibly excited about it, and even today the plaza remains popular and fully operational. 

A common misconception is that women don’t fit into technical or leadership roles in construction, when in reality, we bring strong expertise, communication, and problem‑solving skills that drive projects forward and elevate the entire industry. 

Women bring exceptional communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills to construction, helping teams coordinate more effectively and anticipate challenges before they escalate. They often approach complex situations with a collaborative mindset, strengthening project relationships and fostering a more inclusive work environment. Their attention to detail, adaptability, and ability to manage multiple priorities contribute to higher quality, safer, and more efficient projects. 

Don’t be afraid—show up prepared, give your best, and be bold. Trust your abilities, stand confidently in who you are, and never forget that being a woman is a strength in this industry.