Personal Journey
Was there a moment in your career when you realized, “I want to lead at the highest level”?
I can’t point to one single moment. Leadership has always seemed to come to me naturally through hard work and intensity, rather than a deliberate pursuit. I wouldn’t say I set out to lead at the highest level, but I’ve discovered I thrive there. A colleague once told me, “The only way to know if you’re a leader is if people are following you.” That perspective stuck with me—it’s not about the title, it’s about influence and the impact you have on the people around you. That’s what I want to bring to McRae’s clients and team every day.
Who has inspired your leadership style most — and how do you bring that influence into your work today?
Ironically, the leaders who shaped me most were the poor ones. Seeing the impact of unclear communication or lack of trust gave me clarity about the kind of leader I never wanted to be. Those experiences taught me to focus on being intentional: to communicate clearly, to build trust, and to set people up for success. That’s the standard I hold for myself—and for McRae as we serve our customers.
What’s one challenge you faced on your journey here that shaped the leader you are now?
Early in my career, I realized not everyone communicates the same way I do. I’m naturally very direct, focused on facts and details, with little emotion. That didn’t always land well. I had to learn to adapt—how to flex my communication style so I could be more effective with different people. A colleague once told me, “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” That has become a guiding principle for me, and it’s something I bring into every client conversation to make sure people feel supported and understood.
Breaking Barriers
McRae is in an industry historically dominated by men. What does it mean to you, personally and professionally, to step into the CEO role as a woman?
Honestly, it doesn’t feel unusual to me. I’ve spent my entire career in male-dominated industries because that’s often where the opportunities were. Over time, I’ve become comfortable being one of the few women in the room. For me, this is a continuation of that journey. What matters most now is creating an environment where the next generation of leaders—regardless of gender—have the chance to thrive without unnecessary barriers.
How do you hope your leadership opens doors for others — both inside McRae and across the industry?
I want people to feel empowered to take chances and bet on themselves. My non-negotiables are character, quality of life, and work-life balance. Everything else can be learned. If my leadership encourages people to keep growing until they find the right fit, and if it helps create a culture at McRae where people feel supported to do that, then I’ll consider it a success.
Vision & Philosophy
If you had to describe your leadership style in three words, what would they be — and why?
- Direct — People deserve clarity. Words matter.
- Honest — Accurate information allows us to adapt and grow.
- Compassionate — Leadership is about people as much as it is about results. Understanding others is the key to building lasting partnerships.
What’s one bold idea you’d love to see McRae bring to life during your tenure as CEO?
I’d love for McRae to become a leader in sustainable construction. Not just meeting standards, but exceeding them—setting new ones for the industry. We only get one planet, and I want the work we do today to benefit future generations.
When you think about McRae five years from now, what do you see?
I see McRae as a company people are proud to work for and proud to work with. I see unmatched quality in the projects we deliver and customer service that truly sets the standard. For clients, that means working with a partner who makes construction seamless, collaborative, and even enjoyable.
Culture & People
What do you want every team member to feel when they walk into work at McRae each day?
I want them to feel proud of what they do, and confident they have the tools and support to succeed. When a team feels empowered, that translates directly into better outcomes for clients and partners.
What do you hope clients and partners say about McRae after working with you under your leadership?
I want them to say the experience was seamless, collaborative, and exceeded their expectations. Construction can be complicated, but our role is to make sure clients feel supported and confident every step of the way.
Beyond the Office
Outside of your role as CEO, what fuels you — hobbies, passions, or routines that keep you grounded?
I love being outdoors. Hiking, rollerblading, and traveling with friends keep me energized and balanced. Those experiences give me fresh perspective, which I bring back into my leadership.
What’s something unexpected about you that people might be surprised to learn?
When I asked my friends this, they laughed and said, “With you, nothing is a surprise—it’s always unique.” But if I had to share one fact: I have a worm farm. It’s quirky, but it fits me—it’s about growth, care, and sustainability.
If you had to leave just one piece of advice for the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Be patient and kind—with others and with yourself. Leadership isn’t about rushing; it’s about growing, evolving, and bringing people with you along the way.