Women in Construction: Climbing the Career Ladder
It’s Women in Construction Week, so we are honouring those who are making an impact and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
We caught up with Kirsten Clarke, who has recently been promoted to Senior Design Manager. She shared her journey of progression, the challenges she has overcome and her advice for others looking to thrive in the construction industry.
What was your career journey leading up to this promotion?
I started in the construction industry as a document controller after college, and from there, I trained as a designer before moving to Stofix and becoming a design manager. My career has been a mix of on-the-job development and training that has allowed me to discover different aspects of the industry. Every experience has helped to build my skill set and prepare me for this next step in my career.
What’s the best part of your job?
Seeing the finished product. There’s nothing more satisfying than watching a project come to life after months of planning and hard work. Seeing how our efforts translate into something tangible and receiving appreciation for what we’ve created makes all the challenges worthwhile.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?
Being a female in a male-led industry has been challenging. However, my knowledge of our product has allowed me to be a point of contact. I’ve focused on building my expertise and proving my value. By becoming the go-to person for product knowledge, I was able to establish credibility and gain respect in my field.
What excites you most about this next chapter?
Building our team in the office and our portfolio of completed projects. I’m looking forward to growing our team, strengthening collaboration and seeing our work expand. Each new project brings fresh challenges and opportunities, and I can’t wait to contribute to the success of future builds.
What advice would you give to other women looking to progress in their careers?
Building on your knowledge and relationships with clients will allow you to become a key team member and progress. Never stop learning—expanding your expertise and nurturing strong professional relationships will open doors to new opportunities. Becoming a reliable and knowledgeable part of the team will help you stand out and advance in your career.
How would you sum up your experience of working at Stofix in three words?
Rewarding, educational and inspiring.
Congratulations on your promotion, Kirsten!
