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 Sabeena Crown, Assistant Project Manager at Target Building Construction, Inc.
As a woman leading construction projects, what leadership strategies have helped you succeed in a traditionally male-dominated space, and what advice do you have for other women looking to advance into project management?
When it comes to leadership strategies and styles, there is no one-size fits all option. But as a woman in a male dominated field like construction, you have to lead with confidence, clear communication, and build relationships to be able to succeed. For any women who are looking to advance into project management, you have to remember to advocate for yourself. You must set goals for your career and actively pursue them. Remember to be vocal about your achievements and the value that you bring. But alongside that, having a mentor is key. It may seem tough at times but know that there are always people rooting for you and want to see you grow and succeed in this field. Finding the right mentor or even becoming a mentor will help you build those connections and empower the next generation.
What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and how did you get started?
My father worked as a carpenter, so I grew up helping him with renovations around the house. Once at Drexel University, I opted to pursue my bachelor’s degree in business and civil engineering. Throughout my college career, I interned for various companies but one of them was a GC where I really got to learn the ins and outs of what it takes to run a job on site. The field experience was one of the other things that helped spark my interest to pursue a career in construction.
What is the most rewarding part of working in the construction industry?
Every day is different when you are in the construction industry. Especially when you are involved on the project management side, where you face different challenges and have to learn how to solve problems in the most efficient way possible to stay on schedule. But at the end of it all, what was once drawings on paper becomes a tangible reality. And you’re able to walk away from that project with that sense of accomplishment.
Where do you see the future of women in construction heading in the next 5-10 years?
The future is incredibly promising. When I was younger, it wasn’t as common to hear about a woman being in construction. But nowadays, there are so many networks and programs that mentor women and even teach young girls about the industry to broaden their understanding of career options in construction. The societal changes and focus on diversity is creating opportunities for women to be able to join and thrive in the construction industry. There has been a positive trend in the industry where more women are pursuing careers in engineering, project management, and skilled trades. And I believe it will continue to grow.
