Women in Construction: Virginia Carter

Virginia P. Carter 

Senior Project Engineer 

Ozanne 

How many years have you worked in the industry? Over 30 years in this industry. My roles have varied from Civil Engineer to Project Manager. 

What attracted you to the construction industry? I have always loved the structures of buildings. As a child having a Lincoln log set had me occupied for hours. 

What do you enjoy most about your job? The final product! When the owner is walking through and sees how the drawings translate into reality and they smile, I know I've done my job!  

What advice would you give other women considering the construction industry? "If you are always trying to be normal you will never know how amazing, you can be..." Maya Angelou. Take the chance, especially if STEM is something you love. 

What can be done to attract more women to construction? The desire starts early. We must focus on having girls do things out of the ordinary. STEM is a start, but also working with your hands to design and build is essential. This is what sparks the imagination, which shapes a vision. 

What do you like to do in your free time? Spending time with family...and talking about a building's history that I never knew existed in Cleveland.