2024 Women in Construction: Lisa Sletten, Windover Construction

What has been the driving force behind your success in the AEC industry? I believe being open-minded and willing to learn has significantly helped me be successful in the industry. I’ve learned so much in my career from our trade partners and spending time in the field. In my experience, when you ask for an explanation to increase your technical understanding of constructability, trade partners enjoy helping and explaining. Absorbing this technical knowledge has given me a deeper understanding and has enhanced my approach to budgets, change orders, scope writing, and many other aspects of my job.

Who or what inspired you to join the AEC industry? I do not have a construction background, so I’ve grown my career in a non-traditional way. I’ve always enjoyed the problem-solving nature of the industry, and I’ve learned that there are different ways to solve problems. As I’ve advanced in my career, I’ve enjoyed analyzing the different ways to approach a problem (logistically, financially, operationally). I also appreciate that our projects and jobs are tangible. Working for months or years on a project and bringing it from concept to a constructed building is an amazing transformation. It inspires me and motivates me to continue doing it.

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? I’m currently working on a complex renovation for one of our higher education clients. It’s an existing masonry building, with half constructed in 1908 and half in 1949, making it a combination of wood framed and steel/concrete construction. Due to the restrictive nature of the existing conditions, there’s very little flexibility within the construction parameters and the coordination effort and structural remedies have been challenging and required a significant planning effort. Our team has collaborated with excellent trade partners, and I’m so proud of the team we’ve built. Keeping these relationships a priority has kept solid momentum for our schedule.

What is your favorite / most beneficial part of Women in Construction week? I enjoy reading and hearing other women’s perspectives within the industry.

What are your goals for the future? I want to continue to execute successful work for clients who appreciate collaboration and teamwork. I also want to continue to help develop our people and teams and translate that into positive work for Windover. I’m excited to continue getting involved in the industry and learning from my peers.