As part of a women-owned, women-led company in construction and facilities planning, I feel both proud and deeply aware of the responsibility we share.
Women now represent just over 10% of the construction workforce. That number is growing every year, and while it may not seem headline-worthy, it reflects something much bigger than a statistic.
It represents progress.
It represents resilience.
It represents doors that were pushed open, and sometimes pried open, by the women who came before us.
Standing on the Shoulders of Trailblazers
Long before many of us stepped onto job sites or into boardrooms, women like Emily Roebling were quietly getting the work done, even when recognition wasn’t forthcoming. Women like Elsie Eaves were leading in construction at a time when leadership roles for women were almost unheard of.
They didn’t wait for permission.
They didn’t wait for perfect conditions.
They built anyway.
Because of them, and so many others whose names may never appear in headlines, we have more space at the table today.
What That Growth Really Means
That 10% growth reflects a more diverse set of leadership perspectives.
It represents stronger collaboration.
It represents smarter problem-solving.
It represents a broader vision of what’s possible in our built environment.
And I see that every single day in our office.
At HF Planners, I get to work shoulder-to-shoulder with women who lead with clarity, creativity, and conviction. Women who bring precision and empathy to every challenge. Women who cheer for each other’s wins. Women who are shaping workplaces and opening doors for the next generation.
I don’t take that lightly.
I learn from them daily.
Celebrating, Without Becoming Complacent
Here’s the truth: we have made meaningful progress. And we should celebrate it.
But we’re not finished.
The next chapter calls for intentional mentorship, real visibility, and active advocacy. It’s about companies like HF Planners, willing to open doors and women stepping through them and holding those doors open for others.
We have to keep building the pipeline, encourage young women to explore careers in construction and facilities management, and show them they belong here.
Because they do.
Her Wisdom
“I wish I had known to lean into my strengths, instead of trying to fit a mold or be someone I’m not.”
And if she could say one thing to a young woman thinking about this field? She doesn’t sugarcoat it: “Be prepared for very hard work and being the only woman on a job site.” She says it with the knowing smile of someone who showed up anyway and won.
Her guiding philosophy comes straight from her dad, who used to say: “Get ’er done!” Casey’s translation: “Sometimes, you just have to do something, even if it’s hard.”
In Caroline’s Words
It has been incredibly rewarding to watch Casey Murphy grow and evolve since joining our team in 2013. She takes on every challenge with focus and determination, consistently exceeding expectations and often elevating the work beyond what was originally envisioned. Clients are naturally drawn to Casey’s optimism and positive approach, which helps bring their vision to life. Casey plays a key role on our team and is truly a pleasure to work with
Grateful to Be Part of This Moment
I feel incredibly lucky to work alongside such influential women, not just leaders on paper, but leaders in action.
We are benefiting from the courage of those who came before us. And we have a responsibility to make it easier for those who come next.
Progress is worth celebrating.
And to Caroline, Casey, and Ellen, thank you for giving me a chance, being patient & supportive of me as I grow and learn, and encouraging me to forge my own path in this industry.
The work ahead?
It’s work I’m proud to be part of.
