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Celebrating Women In Construction Week: March 2-8, 2025 - Kelly Slater

March 3, 2025

DRE Industries is proud to celebrate Women in Construction Week (March 2-8, 2025) by highlighting the incredible leaders driving the construction industry forward. As a female-owned and operated organization, we take pride in recognizing the trailblazers shaping the future of the industry. We sat down with a few exceptional women whose expertise, leadership, and dedication are paving the way for the next generation:

Join us in celebrating their accomplishments and the unstoppable energy of women in construction.

Kelly Slater is a Senior Project Manager with EllisDon. She has more than 18 years of construction experience, working on a wide range of projects, from complex interior fit-ups to large scale healthcare projects, prominent office towers and residential towers in the Greater Toronto Area. Kelly has served on both the owner and contractors' side and brings a unique perspective to the projects she works on.

What advice would you give to other women who are considering a career in construction?

As women, we sometimes hesitate to speak up. Don’t be afraid to share your opinions and ask questions. It can be intimidating to voice your thoughts in a room full of men but remember that most people genuinely want to hear your perspective and are willing to support your growth in your career.

What do you find most rewarding about working in the construction industry?

I find it incredibly rewarding to hand over new construction projects to our clients. Construction has the power to impact lives. Building a new hospital enables people to receive treatment in state-of-the-art facilities with cutting-edge equipment. Constructing condominiums provides homes for families. We can transform skylines and leave a lasting impact on cities, which is truly amazing!

How do you see the role of women evolving in the construction field over the next 10 years?

In the past five years, I’ve noticed a significant influx of female co-op students from engineering programs across Ontario. This trend shows that women are increasingly encouraged to pursue STEM careers and view construction as a viable option. With this growing presence, we can expect more women to occupy senior leadership positions in the industry over the next decade. Women bring unique perspectives to construction, and as the industry evolves, harnessing this potential is essential for enhancing and improving the sector.

What is one misconception about working in construction that you wish more people understood?

One common misconception about construction is that it’s boring. In reality, every day presents new challenges, from managing budgets to solving constructability issues and addressing conflicts among trades. If you think construction is dull, it might be worth exploring a different career path!

What skills or traits do you think are essential for success in the construction industry?

Strong people skills are essential for success in construction. The most successful individuals inspire teamwork, provide mentorship, and support growth. By fostering collaboration and building lasting relationships, they create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute.

As part of our Women in Construction Week series, we’re recognizing the achievements and impact of women making waves in the industry. Let’s continue breaking barriers and building a more inclusive future.

Follow DRE Industries on LinkedIn to see more inspiring stories throughout the week.