Virginia Tech's women in construction provide a catalyst for change
Alumni and faculty in the College of Engineering focus on building the next generation of construction industry professionals.
(Top row, from left) Allie Vogrig, Annie Pearce, Kirsten Leckszas, Danielle Hill. (Bottom row, from left) Renee Ryan, Lu Zhang, Aislinn Nagy, Lisa Tenley. Photo Illustration by Riley Kaufman for Virginia Tech.
In a world where women make an average of 84 cents to every man’s dollar, there’s one industry that’s narrowing the gender pay gap: construction.
However, despite the efforts for higher pay, women only make up 10 percent of the industry. These women are passionate about the opportunities within the industry as well as the ones that will come for the next generation of women.
For Virginia Tech educators, it’s not just about teaching students technical skills, but how to become an advocate for themselves. From family ties to a desire for hands-on opportunities and seeing change from start to finish, the thread that weaves many of these women together is the Myers-Lawson School of Construction.
Lisa Tenley, an industry partner who serves in the Myers-Lawson Industry Council, takes the mission of including more women to heart as she helps students land their first construction jobs.
“I feel called to use my voice and position to open doors for more women,” said Tenley. “We build the spaces where life happens. What could be more important?”
Faculty lay the foundation for success
When students step into a Myers-Lawson classroom, nearly half of the construction professors they meet are women. With diverse backgrounds and experiences, these educators bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to their roles, shaping the minds and futures of aspiring women in construction.
For Lu Zhang, building construction associate professor, it’s more than just a job. It’s a commitment to inspire and empower.
“There are not many careers that provide the opportunity to influence the younger generation,” said Zhang. “Witnessing the growth and development of my students brings a profound sense of fulfillment to my work.”
That sense of responsibility is one many educators hold near and dear.
Annie Pearce, a building construction associate professor, got her start as a contractor working with the U.S. military on sustainability initiatives. Now she’s imparting her knowledge by leaving the planet better than she found it.
“It was time to invest my energy in the young people who are building the world my former clients are sworn to defend,” said Pearce.
Annie Pearce (at right) teaches students cement-mixing techniques during field trip. Photo by Peter Means for Virginia Tech.
Alumnae pioneer a new path
Women who once called Blacksburg home have taken up the same mission: blazing the path for more women to join them.
“Ultimately, being a woman in the construction industry is about empowerment - empowerment to pursue my ambitions, make meaningful contributions, and inspire others to do the same,” said Aislinn Nagy '11.
But being a trailblazer isn’t always a straight path forward. Construction engineering and management alumna Danielle Hill’s '19 goal to inspire young women hasn’t changed, but her ability to find her own voice has.
“Initially, I felt like I needed to fit in with my male peers to succeed and over the years, now my biggest takeaway is to be myself,” said Hill. “That is the most important piece of advice I try to give to any young women entering the construction industry.”
Kirsten Leckszas '88 is proud to see that empowerment continue. With over 40 years of construction experience, she called the changes to the landscape of the industry “refreshing.” Her goal is to help other women become their own advocates.
Pillars of success: Mentorship and support
Community is a central theme for many of the women that make up the 10 percent of the industry, whether through a more formal program or with a group like the student-founded Building Women in Construction (BWIC).
“BWIC was fierce in supporting my endeavors and was a good sounding board for any issues I ran into on the job site,” said Hill, who continues to give back to the student group after graduation.
During Leckszas 40 years in the industry, she has mentored dozens of women, including Allie Vogrig '18, an alumna who now serves as the industry coordinator for the Myers-Lawson undergraduate mentoring program.
“The Myers-Lawson mentorship program was a wonderful tool for me when I was a student. I find the program to be one of the best parts of the school. Perhaps that is why I help run it as an industry member now,” said Vogrig.
Vogrig is ushering in a new generation of mentors who are equipping students with practical skills and instilling confidence to be prepared in any situation. Her buy-in from the industry stretches from current students to new graduates to people like Tenley who have been in the industry for years.
“Look for mentors who will push you, believe in you, and give you opportunities to shine,” said Tenley. “Find ways to get outside your comfort zone - that's where growth happens.”
Building Construction students tour Hitt Hall which will expand the Myers-Lawson School of Construction footprint on Virginia Tech's Blacksburg campus. Photo by Ashley Williamson for Virginia Tech.
Beacon of excellence
Taking the Myers-Lawson mission of being a beacon of excellence to heart, these women see an even brighter future ahead for the students who are yet to come. They see a world where their gender is not a barrier to success, but rather a reason to welcome different perspectives to the table. It’s a table where they hope to meet more women with seats as well.
“Sometimes you have to 'see one' to 'be one',” said Reneé Ryan, assistant director of student affairs and administration. “Women have the chance to break through barriers and climb the ranks.”
