The commercial construction industry remains one largely dominated by men. Fortunately, that is changing, albeit at a pace that is far too slow. The construction industry, though, is full of talented women who are thriving in this industry.
That includes Madeline Smith, sustainable development manager with the St. Louis office of Clayco.
In her position with the firm, Smith works to reduce the environmental impact of the built environment, focusing on third-party certifications, sustainable technologies and building energy analysis. Additionally, she assists in internal corporate responsibility.
Smith earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond in both environmental studies and French and is currently an MBA candidate at Washington University in St. Louis’s Olin Business School.
In honor of Women in Construction Week, REjournals takes a look at Smith’s career, the successes she’s enjoyed in this industry and her thoughts on how to get more women into the field of commercial construction.
How did you get into the construction industry?
Madeline Smith: As an environmental studies major, I was looking for a role where I had the greatest potential for influence in improving the environment. Construction has significant impact on the environment and many avenues for mitigating its impact. Sustainability consulting for buildings seemed like a perfect fit for my career goals.
Describe a typical day on the job.
Smith: A quality I love about my job is the wide diversity of jobs and tasks. Depending on the enterprise needs, I may be assisting an owner on sustainability goals for a project, educating a subcontractor on the sustainable requirements of a job, brainstorming internal enterprise sustainability goals, working with estimating on accounting for all costs related to sustainability, or interviewing for a project pursuit. The variety of tasks keeps me engaged and excited about the job.
What have been some of the biggest obstacles you’ve faced in your current position?
Smith: The largest obstacle has been costs related to sustainable design and construction. Generally, we all are motivated to “do the right thing,” but willingness to pay varies substantially. Acceptable payback periods are typically short and anything without a tangible payback can be an uphill battle.
What was your favorite construction project and why?
Smith: My favorite construction project to date is the Centene North Carolina headquarters. It is our largest WELL project, and the design integrates nature throughout the space. The team is motivated, communicative and engaged, which makes the work enjoyable.
What do you like most about your job?
Smith: Other than the diversity of work, the most redeeming part of my job is the change it is making in the industry. I am very proud to support project teams that want to make their buildings more sustainable. Despite the challenges, it is rewarding knowing that this work is improving the environment.
How has the participation of women in construction changed over the years, and where do you see it heading?
Smith: Women’s participation in construction has drastically increased over my time in the industry. I expect this to continue until the gender ratios are equivalent to the population.
What is your advice to women wanting to get into construction?
Smith: Seek out other women in the industry to have as mentors and collaborators. Construction is a fast-paced job and having women peers to learn from and consult with will help your career immensely.
