On the Job Site and Beyond: Women Leading in Construction

When Jenny Gilliland first considered a career in construction, it wasn't part of a long-term plan. It was an opportunity she hadn't imagined for herself until she saw what was possible. Today, after starting as an apprentice electrician and growing into project management, Jenny's seen firsthand how the industry has evolved, and how women continue to share its future. 

In recognition of Women's History Month, we sat down with Jenny to talk about career growth, leadership, challenges, and what success means now. 

What led you to a career in construction? 

I was a youth care worker at a residential facility, making $11.50/hour with poor benefits, when I met a female electrician. This woman had her own home, car, and some animals. She helped us with a home improvement project, and after having hands-on experience on the farm, I realized this was something that I could do. 

What was your first role at Interstates? 

I went to trade school at Iowa Central Community College and then joined Interstates as an apprentice electrician. 

How have you seen opportunities for women change over your career? 

Women in construction are much more common now than when I started 10 years ago. I see more women in project management, safety roles, and field electrician positions, as well as in other trades. 

I've also seen more flexibility for women with families. Children are only small for a short time, and allowing people flexibility during sickness or caregiving shows that our core value of family really matters. 

What barriers have improved, and what barriers remain? 

There's more personal protective equipment (PPE) and gear available for women now. When I started, I had to wear men's pants and shirts. My husband would always joke about me changing out of my "man pants" when I got home. During the second round of company-supplied clothing, I was provided the female version. I felt more confident. 

There's still room for improvement in job site facilities: better restroom access, handwashing stations, and safe spaces for breast milk expression would make a difference. 

What has been the most challenging part of your career? 

The most challenging part of my career is balancing family and work life. I really like my job, so it's sometimes hard to step away for family responsibilities. I have a coworker without kids, and sometimes I'm a little jealous that he doesn't have to leave to pick up children. 

Who influenced your career the most? 

This is tough; there were many who influenced me. 

• Alan: He was an electrical engineer by trade and an entrepreneur who owned a tree farm. He hired me when I was 13. He was a mentor and guided me to reach beyond what I saw in front of me. My family didn't talk to me about my future quite like he did, and it helped me get ahead.
• Josh: In the field, he supported me even though I was a woman. At the time, some people thought it wouldn't be a good idea for pregnant women to be in the field. Josh stood up for me, not because I was a woman, but because I was a good worker.
• Ben: He saw a good work ethic in me in the field and found opportunities for me. Ben supported me throughout my apprenticeship and didn't seem to treat me differently because I was a woman. I felt like any other worker, and at the end of the day, that was all I wanted: to go to work, earn more money than I ever had before, and support my family.
• Jack: He set us up to take ownership, learn, and grow. Since moving into project management, I've appreciated everything he's taught me. 

What does a "typical" day look like for you? 

As an Assistant Project Manager II (APM II), I'm on-site two to three times a week with clients. I also work in the office preparing estimates, managing financial responsibilities, supporting crew schedules, and helping ensure projects are completed on time. 

What project are you most proud of? 

We had 10 different projects with an ethanol producer in Iowa, on an extremely quick turnaround. It took a lot of preparation ahead of the shutdown to coordinate people and leaders with the documentation they needed, schedule meetings, and arrange accommodations for a 10-day turnaround. One challenge was that a new VFD failed, and we had to replace it right away. It was stressful at the time, but after that, everything went incredibly smoothly. 

What does inclusive leadership look like in construction? 

It means being open to a person's abilities and leadership style, regardless of gender. I may approach leadership differently than some of the men I work with, but it's still effective. I'm also open to their approaches. That blend makes our team stronger. 

How do diverse teams improve project outcomes? 

Everyone is different, and we each find our roles and build the entire office up. Often, our regional manager will say, "This project is a better fit for this person," and it works out well. Playing to people's strengths builds the entire team up. 

How do you create opportunities for others? 

I like to pair projects with people I think will do really well, and I try to create an environment where they can grow and learn on those projects. I like to say, "If it is difficult, we are growing." 

What makes Interstates a place where women can succeed? 

There's zero tolerance for sexism, and the safety culture is real. Our core values matter. We want people who deliver quality work to our clients, and men and women can work together to achieve that goal. 

What support systems have been meaningful to you? 

The apprenticeship program, HR, and my management team have been incredibly supportive throughout my career journey. More specifically, the foreman I worked with helped me find facilities where I could express breast milk. He accommodated my needs without making it uncomfortable. That meant a lot. 

What does success mean to you now compared to earlier in your career? 

Earlier, success meant moving up and making more money. 

Now, success means making a decent living and doing what I love, being proud of my career, and valuing the relationships I have at work and at home. 

What would you say to young women considering construction? 

Go for it! There are many fields in construction that aren't directly field labor-related. 

What impact do you hope to leave? 

I hope that my crew and my team know that I have their back. I want to see those worthy of success succeed. Hard work and dedication to completing projects safely, with a decent profit margin, and on time are rewarded with more opportunities. 

Jenny's story reflects more than progress; it reflects ownership, resilience, and impact. From apprentice electrician to project leadership, she has helped shape projects, teams, and culture along the way. As more women enter and advance in construction, the industry's future isn't just changing. It's being built with intention.