In celebration of Women in Construction Week, we ae highlighting the careers of some of the women who are thriving in the commercial construction industry. That includes Taylor Verdon, project manager with Rolling Meadows, Illinois-based BEAR Construction Company.
Verdon’s industry experience dates back to 2014. She joined BEAR as an Assistant Project Manager in 2019 and was promoted to Project Manager in 2021 because of her leadership, management and communication skills.
Veron’s previous estimating and project management experience with an HVAC contractor makes her uniquely qualified to identify and overcome project challenges, especially in those fields. Her attention to detail and communication skills have earned Verdon a reputation within BEAR for being one of the company’s most dedicated and qualified young professionals, as well as making her one of our most client-requested Project Managers.
Verdon and her husband Luke reside in the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago with their French bulldog, Clark, who is a frequent visitor to the downtown office of BEAR Construction Company. Outside of work, Verdon enjoys competing in marathons and playing golf.
What led you to pursue a career in construction?
Taylor Verdon: Although somewhat unexpected given my past background and interests, what led me to my current career were the unlimited chances the construction industry offers, such as career development, skill improvement and the need for greater diversity and inclusion in a traditionally male-dominated industry. My inspiration is confronting stereotypes and breaking barriers as I grow in my career.
What challenges have you faced in building a career in a male-dominated industry like construction?
Verdon: The most common challenges I’ve faced since beginning my career in construction were under-representation and the stereotype that I, as a woman, would have limited knowledge about the work. It can be intimidating to enter an industry where few women hold jobs let alone in leadership positions, which made it difficult to identify role models and mentors. But providing a welcoming environment to other women through networking events and within my project interactions, I’ve been able to find validation in my work.
Have you noticed an increase in the number of women entering the construction industry? If so, why do you think that is?
Verdon: The increasing occurrence of women in the industry serves as encouragement that we can flourish in a traditionally male-dominated role. More and more organizations, like BEAR Construction, place an emphasis on diversity and inclusion to create supportive environments for women. However, I still see there are challenges in the form of workplace discriminations, a lack of women in leadership positions and a lack of training throughout the construction industry, including the subcontractor community.
What do you find most fulfilling about working in the construction industry?
Verdon: The construction industry offers a dynamic and rewarding environment. The experiences I find most fulfilling are overcoming challenges, establishing and nurturing client relationships and the opportunity to rise into a leadership position. Overcoming obstacles such as tight deadlines or navigating complex projects provides great satisfaction, whether it is developing innovative solutions to problems or effectively managing resources. Each challenge I solve builds confidence in my ability and spurs growth.
Working closely with clients of all levels to understand needs, preferences and project vision allows for the opportunity to form trust and connections. I believe an essential characteristic of construction and our success is the ability to grow a strong reputation, which leads to repeat business and referrals. I also like that by establishing my expertise, professionalism and ability to deliver results, my opportunity to hold a leadership position intensifies, and as my abilities to influence project outcomes and mentor others develop, I will begin to shape the future of the industry.
What advice do you have for other women interested in pursuing a career in construction?
Verdon: Stay persistent. Some stretches of time will feel sluggish and some challenges will seem insurmountable, but hard work and dedication ultimately pays off. Staying committed to your goals and believing in yourself will lead to a successful career in construction.
