March 6-12, 2022 is Women in Construction Week. We are recognizing some of the women who own and operate construction businesses, or work as construction safety professionals in the Philadelphia region’s construction industry. These women and their companies are changing the Philadelphia region, both its physical and cultural landscapes.
This week, we’re spotlighting Kim Esposito, Director of Safety & Risk Management, HSC Builders & Construction Managers.
How and why did you pursue a career in construction?
A friend of mine introduced me to the world of construction through the perspective of a subcontractor and later introduced me to my current employer, HSC Builders and Construction Managers. While I started in the accounting department, after almost 20 years, I eventually evolved into the world of Risk Management and Safety.
In pursuing Risk Management and Safety, I considered the extreme importance and value a good risk management program could bring to an organization, and what an incredible impact it could make.
What keeps you going, or inspires you, on the jobsite?
Risk Management is such a dynamic role! I have the opportunity to work with some incredibly talented individuals. Although much of our work consist of complex and challenging projects, the various aspects that surround good risk management practices inspire me every day. The ability to collaborate with others to bring projects to a safe and successful completion is very satisfying. I get to work closely with the project teams to come up with sound safety plans to create safer worksites.
Employee safety is so critical to a successful project and how that impacts the end user is what continually drives me. Knowing that I was a small part of building a space for a potential cure, labor delivery, or successful hospital operations etc. is really awe inspiring.
What is one of your favorite past or current projects, and why?
There are many favorites! One specifically that comes to mind is a new 60,000 SF manufacturing pilot plant for the production of biologics to support early-stage clinical trials. The project entailed many preplanning meetings and constant collaboration with the Owners and Subcontractors. We did monthly appreciation luncheons sponsored by the Owner, which created an atmosphere of partnership throughout the duration of the project. The building was completed ahead of schedule and in a very safe manner. Being a part of creating a space that can test medication and potentially cure diseases is amazing.
Several GBCA member companies are owned by women. Click below to see a full list of GBCA members that are certified Women-Owned Business Enterprises:
About Women in Construction Week
WIC Week was founded by The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) which includes over 115 chapters across the country. NAWIC offers its members education, support, and networking to help advance their careers in construction, build their technical skills, and become leaders.
