Women in Construction Week is a time to recognize the dedication, leadership, and impact of women throughout our industry. Construction is built on teamwork, skill, and perseverance — and the women on our team embody those qualities every day.
To celebrate WIC Week, we invited several of the women at Parkway to share their stories. We asked them about their roles, their journeys, and what excites them most about working in construction — and their answers reflect the passion and expertise they bring to their work every day.
Pam Banegas- Senior Contract Administrator
- Tell me a little bit about your journey and how you got here at Parkway.
I actually applied, using zero connections, for a position several years before I tried again. Second time around, I used not one but two employee’s as references to, hopefully, get me an in-person interview. It worked! I’m so glad the first time didn’t come to fruition because being a Contract Administrator was meant for me! It wasn’t always sunshine and roses, but nothing in life worth having comes easy. I will say it was and is definitely worth it! Heck, I’m a Senior Contract Administrator these days!
2. Why do you love working in construction?
Working in construction is similar to working at an airline…situations can change on a daily basis. You never know what is around the corner no matter how well planned out you have your schedule. I love that thrill and the ability to pivot – with a positive, enthusiastic attitude – when needed! And, after all the paperwork I push through from beginning to the end, I derive true joy from the satisfaction of completing a building. Seeing the finished product in all its magnificence is magical…and, I’m a part of that!
- What is some advice you have for women wanting to join the field?
Women bring a unique perspective to construction. If we’re lucky, we have a more emotional way to view the construction process. Men, take note! This is a valuable trait and our ideas/solutions/etc. should be given the same listening ear and evaluation as any other worker. The advice I would give any woman wanting to join construction is two-fold: 1) Keep in mind that we are the minority, that’s okay, but learn how to work with that mindset on a professional level; and 2) Be patient, be firm, be confident. It takes a bit of extra time for us women to “win over” the male-dominated world of construction. We are capable and we must take the extra time to display our capabilities. Keep respecting others and it will return back to you.
- What is your favorite part about your job?
PEOPLE are my most favorite part of my job! I just love people…from all walks of life. I love being able to help fellow coworkers solve issues or even provide some training. I love learning and I love to help others learn! Also, I’m a huge proponent of Company Culture and I very much appreciate the position I have to promote and maintain Parkway’s culture. I’ve been working on a new Customer Service Initiative – part of our culture here – and we are so close to having it finalized and being able to kick it off throughout the company. The support I have and continue to receive from Parkway’s leadership strengthens my confidence and my energy. Parkway is an amazing place to work and I know I’m a part of something special.
Kirsten Wilson- Project Manager
- Tell me a little bit about your journey and how you got here at Parkway.
I earned my degree in Engineering with a minor in Engineering Project Management from Texas A&M. After college, I worked in industrial design engineering, but I knew I wanted to explore project management. Parkway came highly recommended by a family friend, and from the start, the team felt like the perfect fit. They were welcoming and incredible teachers — I gained all of my construction experience on the job here at Parkway.
2. Why do you love working in construction?
I love that construction is constantly evolving and new, yet still follows the same foundational steps on every project. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing a job through from design to completion. With so many moving parts, everyone plays a vital role in achieving a shared goal — and that team dynamic makes the work even more fulfilling.
- What is some advice you have for women wanting to join the field?
Go for it! While entering a male-dominated field can feel daunting, women have absolutely earned their seat at the table. Don’t be afraid to ask questions — your tradesmen often know their craft best, and there’s so much to learn from them. Don’t pretend to know everything; authenticity and a willingness to learn will take you much further. Be confident, never settle for disrespect, and always advocate for yourself.
- What is your favorite part about your job?
Without a doubt, my favorite part is my teammates. A strong, unified team can move mountains. When we pool our knowledge, experience, and strengths, it not only helps me grow — it drives success for the entire company
Samantha Ufkes- Project Coordinator
- Tell me a little bit about your journey and how you got here at Parkway.
My journey into construction started with a desire to better understand how projects come together—not just financially on paper, but in real time from the field to completion. I began at Parkway in the Estimating Department and then transitioned into Accounting, where I worked in several roles over the next couple years. While in Accounts Receivable, I became more interested in the operational side of construction. I enjoyed working with the numbers but wanted to understand the “why” behind them and how decisions in the field impacted the financial side of a project.
After connecting with several Project Managers, I transitioned into the Warranty Department, where I gained more technical knowledge and began coordinating directly with subcontractors and clients. That experience helped me see where I fit best, connecting the operational needs of the field with the structure of the office.
After several months in Warranty, I moved into Operations as a Project Coordinator. In this role, I support project teams in keeping timelines, communication, and documentation organized so projects can move forward efficiently. Each position I’ve held has built on the last and strengthened my understanding of the construction process as a whole.
2. Why do you love working in construction?
Construction is a challenging and fast-moving industry that requires problem-solving, organization, and strong communication. I appreciate being part of a process where there is a clear end result—you can see the progress and know your work contributes to something tangible.
It’s also an industry that pushes you to continually learn. No two projects are the same, and every day presents new situations that require teamwork and adaptability. That constant learning and growth is what has kept me in construction.
- What is some advice you have for women wanting to join the field?
Don’t let the fact that construction is male-dominated discourage you. There is absolutely space for women in this industry, and competence and professionalism go a long way in earning respect. Take time to learn the technical aspects—understand drawings, scopes of work, and project flow—and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Confidence comes from preparation and knowledge. Speak up in meetings, be willing to learn from those around you, and build strong working relationships with your teams in both the office and the field. Construction requires collaboration, and women bring valuable perspective, organization, and leadership to the table. If you’re willing to work hard and continue learning, you can be very successful in this field.
- What is your favorite part about your job?
I enjoy working in an environment that challenges me to think critically and step into situations where solutions are needed. Construction moves quickly and being able to adapt, contribute ideas, support decision-making, and help overcome obstacles gives me a sense of accomplishment.
I value being in a role where organization, communication, and attention to detail make a measurable impact on the outcome of a project. Seeing a project move from planning to completion, and knowing I played a part in keeping it on track, is both motivating and rewarding.
As we celebrate Women in Construction Week, we extend our gratitude to the women of Parkway who bring expertise, leadership, and dedication to every project. Their contributions strengthen our teams, our culture, and the communities we serve.
We are proud to recognize their impact this week — and every week — as we continue building a stronger future together.
