For Women in Construction Week, March 2-8, 2025, GBCA is proud to honor the women who are making an impact in our industry. Through leadership, active participation, and contributions to key initiatives, these women are helping to shape the future of construction.
This week, GBCA is spotlighting Kathryn Newell, Partner & CEO at IDS Drones Inc.
As a woman CEO in a technology-driven industry, how do you see digital transformation reshaping leadership opportunities for women?
As a woman CEO in a technology-driven industry, I see digital transformation driving significant shifts in leadership opportunities for women, especially in traditionally male-dominated fields like construction. Technologies such as AI, construction software, and digital tools are breaking barriers and opening new leadership pathways for women to thrive. By transforming operations, enhancing efficiency, and enabling smarter decision-making, these innovations create roles where women can lead with expertise, creativity, and adaptability.
In construction, digital tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM), drones for site surveys, and real-time analytics are shifting the industry from labor-intensive to technology-driven processes. Leadership in this evolving space requires innovation, digital proficiency, and problem-solving—areas where women are increasingly excelling.
(Drone) Technology, in particular, is revolutionizing property management, inspections, and site monitoring. With fewer established barriers in this emerging field, women are stepping into key roles as pilots, data analysts, and technology developers, driving progress from the forefront.
Digital transformation has also expanded remote collaboration and virtual project management opportunities, further amplifying the importance of soft skills such as adaptability, communication, and cross-functional leadership—areas where women often excel.
To fully seize these opportunities, women must have access to digital skills training, mentorship, and venture capital for tech-driven projects. As a leader, I actively advocate for mentorship programs that empower women to pursue leadership roles in construction technology.
Ultimately, digital transformation is breaking down barriers and reshaping leadership models. Women embracing these technologies drive industry innovation and pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse future.
What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and how did you get started?
Nine years ago, I recognized that the technologies that drones offer could revolutionize construction—and today, that vision is reality. That technology promised to streamline operations, enhance safety, and reduce costs. Their ability to conduct aerial surveys, capture real-time data, and create 3D models transformed project planning, enabling early issue detection and better collaboration. They also provided a safer, cost-efficient alternative for inspecting hazardous areas and tracking project progress. Offering new technologies like Thermal imaging and LiDAR became a game changer, replacing time-consuming manual methods. Today, drones are a cornerstone of modern construction, driving smarter, safer, and more efficient building practices— And this is only the beginning.
Where do you see the future of women in construction heading in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I see women playing a pivotal role in transforming the construction industry. Because it is no longer an industry of boots on the ground. Technology plays a bigger role as AI, and digital project management continue to reshape the sector and open up opportunities for a more inclusive and diverse workforce that will only improve companies’ bottom ROIs by seizing leadership roles driven by digital expertise and innovation. Increased focus on mentorship programs and STEM education will create more pathways for women to enter and advance in construction careers. Additionally, evolving work environments and remote collaboration tools will promote inclusivity and will lead to more construction projects, drive sustainable practices, and inspire future generations, making the industry more innovative and diverse.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction?
To young women exploring a career in construction: Embrace the vast opportunities this dynamic industry offers. Construction isn’t just about building structures—it’s about innovation, technology, and leadership. From project management and site engineering to roles in building design, Solar sustainable architecture, engineering, surveying, project management, drone technology, sustainability, and digital modeling (BIM), the possibilities are endless.
Take time to explore different pathways, and don’t be afraid to step into emerging fields like construction technology, safety management, or green building solutions. Seek mentors who can guide you and connect with women who have paved the way.
Leverage technology to your advantage—understanding tools like drones, AI, and digital project management platforms can set you apart. Stay curious, ask questions, and never stop learning.
Above all, believe in your abilities. Your unique perspective brings value to this evolving industry. Construction needs leaders who can drive change, and women are essential to building a more diverse, sustainable, and innovative future. The sky’s the limit!
