2021 Women in Construction: Kelly Lyons, Senior Estimator, Shawmut Design and Construction

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What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? My most notable project in the past 12 months was the restoration of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston. This multi-year project includes the historic restoration of various spaces. The project team consisted of many women from not only Shawmut, but also the client, architect, and engineer. It was an honor to collaborate with the team and I’m sad my estimating role is completed on the project.

What are you most looking forward to post-pandemic? My family and friends meeting my new son. I had another baby this past summer, and it’s been hard that no one has been able to meet him. I’m hoping we’ll be able to have a first birthday party for him!

Starting out in the construction business, who or what empowered you? Gretchen Pratt was my first boss in the construction industry at Linbeck, Kennedy & Rossi. She had this infectious energy and positive attitude that made me think wow, I want to be her. She always advocated for me and took the time to listen to what I wanted out of my career. Much of her advice comes back to me now as I’m older and I fully understand her balancing act of working/motherhood that she made look so easy. I always remember her when I’m mentoring fellow employees’ part of Shawmut’s CMST program. Confidence is an issue many of us struggle with as women in this industry—and we need strong leaders to help us reach our full potential.