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 Pamela Fly, President, P.A. Fly Contracting, Inc.
How and why did you pursue a career in construction?
I’ve had a lifelong interest in construction: It began when my family moved from Philadelphia to a working farm in Bucks County, PA when I was a child. Living on a farm, there was always a building to renovate or repair and my parents would include everyone in the design and construction process.
My early exposure and interest in the industry carried over when I decided to take shop class in middle school. During my senior year, my father, who was a union sheet metal worker in the building trades, suggested that I apply to the sheet metal workers apprenticeship program. After graduating from high school, I began my apprenticeship as a sheet metal worker, working in the shop, welding, and installing ductwork in the field on projects.
I graduated from the apprenticeship program in 4 years, but soon left the trades to raise a family and develop new business opportunities. I soon realized that I wanted to pivot within the construction industry and I educated myself in the hard and soft skills needed to lead and manage the commercial carpentry company I founded in 1998, P.A. Fly Contracting, Inc.
What do you love about running your construction business?
As a business owner, I’m proud of the role I play in building and creating spaces where people work, live, and play. I love that every day brings new and different challenges. I learn something new every day because no two projects are the same. I enjoy meeting new and interesting people in the industry.
What is one of your favorite past or current projects, and why?
Favorite past projects: The Wawa flagship on the corner of Walnut & Broad Street. The project’s schedule accelerated from 120 days to 75 days and my team completed the fit-out ahead of Pope Frances’ visit to the city. Other notable projects were the Walnut Street Café in the FMC Tower and The Room in One Liberty Place. These two projects showcase the level of craftsmanship and industry knowledge that the P.A. Fly Contracting team brings to the construction process.
My current project: 1101 Chestnut Street, the Jefferson Hospital Specialty Care Garage Fit-out.
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.
