Angela Vacante
Bittenbender Construction, LLC
GBCA Leadership Preparation Program
Women in Construction Week 2026 | GBCA

As part of Women in Construction Week, GBCA is highlighting women who are advancing the union commercial construction industry through leadership development, industry engagement, and participation in GBCA programs.

Angela Vacante of Bittenbender Construction, LLC is a participant in GBCA’s Leadership Preparation Program (LPP), where she has gained firsthand insight into industry decision-making and leadership at a broader level. Through LPP, Angela is strengthening her leadership skills while contributing to the future of the construction industry.

Question 1:  How has your experience in the Leadership Preparation Program shaped your approach to leadership, and why is it important for women in construction to have access to development pathways like LPP? 

The Leadership Preparation Program has given me real exposure to how decisions are made at the industry level and a much better understanding of the issues facing construction as a whole. Sitting in on Board meetings, learning directly from experienced leaders, and taking part in debriefs has helped me think more strategically beyond my own company. Programs like LPP are important for women in construction because they create access to learning, mentorship, and leadership experience early on. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and open throughout the process.

Question 2:  Why is it important for women to have a voice at the committee and decision-making level within organizations like GBC

It’s important for women to have a voice because better decisions come from having different perspectives at the table. While the industry has made progress, there’s still room to grow, and women bring strong management and problem-solving skills that are real assets to construction and to organizations like GBCA.

Question 3- What initially drew you to a career in construction, and what has kept you in the industry?

I was drawn to commercial construction because it allows me to manage ‘complexity’ by aligning people, schedules, budgets, and risk while producing something tangible. Seeing how strong leadership at all levels and smart decision making translate into successful projects, stronger businesses, and a stronger industry is what continues to drive my passion for the work.