While the most recent U.S. Census estimates that women comprise 50.5% of the U.S. population, they still make up just 11% of the overall construction workforce. This percentage has increased in recent years, but much of this increase is confined to women in managerial, technical, and administrative roles. In fact, within construction craft professional positions, where the greatest shortages exist, less than 4% are women.
One of the ways CAGC is addressing the challenge of creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for women in construction is through the CAGC Council on Women in Construction. The Council, formed earlier this year, is committed to “supporting, empowering, and mentoring women in construction” and is focused on recruiting and retaining women – particularly in the trades. NCCER’s report “In Her Own Words: Improving Project Outcomes” will guide much of the Council’s strategic objectives.
The 18 members of the Council represent diversity in gender, race, job duties, background, experience, and size of their company. Kelly Monroe, Director of Strategy and Business Development for Williams Realty Building & Company and Eric Faulk, Chief Growth Officer for Palmetto Corp. lead the Council.
Council Members:
- Sherita Evans, SC Development LLC
- Ben Bishop, Reeves
- Amanda Harter, Hood Construction
- Elizabeth Jackson, CR Jackson
- Jill Evans, Irving Oil
- Evan Sowell, Langston Construction
- Sara Jarrett, TA Loving
- Fleming Herring, Clancy & Theys
- Pam Townsend, Townsend Coaching
- Charlie Wilson, CT Wilson
- Amanda Cornelson, Carolina CAT
- Claudia Dodgen, Crowder Constructors
- Kelsey Davis, WB Moore
- Maryah Smith-Overman, Durham Tech
CAGC Liaison: Betsy Bailey
CAGC Foundation Board Representative: Melissa Cole, Palmetto Corp.
Council Leaders:
Kelly Monroe
Kelly Monroe is a 19-year veteran in the construction management industry and is the director of strategy and business development for Williams Realty Building & Company. She previously served as vice president for business development for Skanska’s North Carolina operations. In her current role, she is responsible for strategic development, business development and marketing, branding and public relations initiatives, and oversight of the company’s market expansion.
Kelly is passionate about supporting women in the construction industry. Her commitment to diversity in construction extends beyond her regional involvement to include participation on the National Associated General Contractors Diversity and Inclusion Committee. She also serves as a conduit to share best practices between the National AGC and the regional CAGC Chapter and is an active member of the local chapters of TCrew and NCEDA.
Erik Faulk
Erik Faulk is a seasoned professional with a passion for driving growth and success in the construction industry. He is committed to supporting diversity and inclusion efforts within the industry. Erik has worked for Palmetto Corporation for over 25 years where he currently serves as Chief Growth Officer.
Erik is passionate about advancing the construction industry and serves on many boards, associations, and committees. From 2010 to 2020, he served on the South Carolina Asphalt Pavement Association (SCAPA) Quality Improvement Committee (QIC). Currently, he actively contributes to the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) in multiple capacities. He is a current member of NAPA's Impact Leadership Group, NAPA's Legislative Committee, and the NAPA Political Advocacy Membership Council. Most recently, Erik became co-chair of the Carolinas AGC Council on Women in Construction, which exemplifies his commitment to breaking down barriers and promoting opportunities for all in the construction sector.
Back to the Top