Redefining Project Leadership: Celebrating Women in Construction
March 2026
As Women in Construction Week continues, we’re shining a spotlight on three inspiring voices: Pratiksha Gade, Kerry Logue, and Olivia Pedro. Over the course of the week, they’ve offered insights on leadership, opportunity, and the evolving landscape of building a career in owner’s project management.
Now, we’re bringing their reflections together to highlight the projects they’re most proud of, the opportunities they believe are shaping the industry, and the advice they would offer to the next generation of women in construction.
From meaningful project milestones to lessons learned along the way, their responses provide a thoughtful perspective on how leadership, collaboration, and curiosity are driving progress across the industry.
Read on for their insights and the perspectives that are shaping the future of construction.
Meet Pratiksha Gade.
Pratiksha has a blend of architectural and project management expertise with over four years of experience across life sciences, residential, and hospitality sectors. She has successfully managed and assisted with projects ranging from small-scale tenant improvements to large ground-up developments, emphasizing design coordination, construction management, and stakeholder communication. Pratiksha received a Master of Science in Project Management from Northeastern University and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Mumbai – Sir J.J. College of Architecture.
Pratiksha is currently supporting a higher education client by providing financial controls oversight across multiple capital projects, including the development of two new student housing facilities and a comprehensive streetscape improvement initiative. She is also supporting a life science client on an office and food service project involving a six-floor renovation.
In her spare time, Pratiksha enjoys baking, experimenting with different recipes, and creating treats for friends and family. Outside of work, she has an eye for creative pursuits and enjoys sketching or dabbling in DIY crafts.
What current or recently completed project, accomplishment, or initiative are you most excited about, and why does it matter for your team, clients, or community?
I am currently working on Northstar’s Dartmouth and Sanofi accounts. I’ve enjoyed being involved in all aspects of the projects I support, from design coordination to on-site problem-solving. Taking ownership of various tasks has allowed me to support my team and build strong relationships with both clients and external partners. Seeing how organized coordination and teamwork directly impact outcomes reminds me why my role matters every day. It is especially rewarding to see how our collaborative efforts translate into spaces that are meaningful to the people who use them.
What do you wish more women knew about the opportunities available in the construction industry today?
Many people don’t realize how many opportunities exist in construction today beyond traditional roles. There are now specialized training programs and certifications in sustainable construction, project management, building systems, and technology integration. There is immense scope to develop expertise in these niche areas and take on meaningful responsibilities to work across multiple disciplines.
What emerging challenge or opportunity do you see shaping the construction industry in the next few years, and how are you preparing for it?
In my opinion, there is now a growing ability for young leaders to step up and take on more responsibility throughout a project. People at all levels lead projects from concept to completion, solve real-world problems, and collaborate across disciplines. The industry is increasingly valuing initiative and creative problem-solving. I’m preparing by building strong coordination skills and actively engaging in project decisions to better support my teams and deliver meaningful outcomes.
What is one piece of advice or perspective you would share with women beginning their careers in the construction industry?
This industry offers many networking events, professional development opportunities, and industry programs designed to help people grow and connect. Conferences, mentorship programs, and professional groups provide spaces to learn, share experiences, and build confidence. Over the last few years, I have attended several of these events, which have exposed me to new ideas and people, and helped me take on greater responsibility in my work. I encourage anyone starting their career in the industry to leverage these opportunities to build connections and grow in their career.
What is something outside of work that brings you energy, balance, or creativity?
The field can be fast-paced, so I turn to cooking and baking to relax and recharge. That’s my happy place!
Meet Kerry Logue.
Kerry has more than 17 years of experience in the construction industry. Her expertise spans owner representation, project management, development management, construction administration, and move management. She specializes in tenant improvement and ground-up construction projects across diverse sectors such as corporate tenant interiors, life science and healthcare facilities, higher education, and K-12 public schools. She earned her BA in Psychology from St. Michael’s College in Vermont and is a Member of CREW Boston.
Kerry is currently leading multiple tenant interior improvement projects for a life science client’s headquarters at Cambridge Crossing. Her work includes the renovation of an existing conference center, campus-wide finishes and furniture upgrades across conference rooms and open workspaces, enhancements to the existing cafe within the office building, and the renovation of a cafe in the lab building.
In her spare time, Kerry enjoys skiing, boating, and spending time with family and friends. Kerry comes from a long line of Irish ancestors in the construction industry, including her great-great-grandfather, who constructed many older buildings throughout Boston, including Fenway Park.
What current or recently completed project, accomplishment, or initiative are you most excited about, and why does it matter for your team, clients, or community?
A recent accomplishment that I am excited about is marking my 10-year anniversary with Northstar. Over the last decade, I have had the benefit of being surrounded by inspiring mentors, colleagues, and clients who have supported and encouraged me both professionally and personally. I’ve learned that real progress comes from embracing change, learning from setbacks, and leaning into teamwork and collaboration. I look forward to continuing this journey and am grateful for the projects, teammates, and experiences that will continue to contribute to my growth.
What do you wish more women knew about the opportunities available in the construction industry today?
I wish more women knew that the construction industry is not limited to one career path. In addition to construction management, there are opportunities in project management, design & engineering, technology, and sustainability, to name a few. I have found that the industry not only supports women but actively seeks them to fill roles across all disciplines. Many companies and industry organizations offer mentorship programs, scholarships, and leadership development specifically for women. Culture is changing, and inclusive workplaces are becoming standard rather than the exception.
What emerging challenge or opportunity do you see shaping the construction industry in the next few years, and how are you preparing for it?
One of the emerging opportunities shaping the industry is the rapid integration of technology and sustainability into project planning and delivery. Tools such as BIM, data-driven project management, automation, and AI are transforming efficiency, while the growing demand for green buildings, energy-efficient materials, and resilient infrastructure is redefining industry standards. One of the ways I am preparing is by leaning into these changes as they evolve. I see this moment as a chance to help shape a smarter, more sustainable, and more inclusive construction industry.
What is one piece of advice or perspective you would share with women beginning their careers in the construction industry?
One piece of advice I would share is to believe you belong in the room and don’t wait for permission to take up space. Construction needs your perspective, skills, and leadership just as much as any other industry. Ask questions, seek out mentors and allies, and be confident in what you bring to the table, even while you’re still learning. You don’t have to know everything on day one; curiosity, a positive outlook, and a willingness to grow will take you far.
What is something outside of work that brings you energy, balance, or creativity?
Something outside of work that brings me energy and balance is making time to disconnect and spend time with family and friends.
Meet Olivia Pedro.
Olivia has over two years of experience in owner’s project management, overseeing accounting and contract administration across multiple projects for a healthcare and pharmaceutical client. Her portfolio is primarily focused on laboratory and office environments, with involvement in the development of both core infrastructure and support spaces. Olivia earned a BS in Business Administration and Management from Bentley University.
Olivia is currently supporting a build-to-suit headquarters project in a new ground-up development in Cambridge. The project includes biology labs, offices, a cafeteria, a fitness center, a daycare center, and a community lab.
In her spare time, Olivia likes to go on food adventures and has a bit of a sweet tooth. She’s currently on the hunt for a good (fresh) Nutella croissant.
What current or recently completed project, accomplishment, or initiative are you most excited about, and why does it matter for your team, clients, or community?
One current project I am especially excited about is Biogen’s new headquarters in the heart of Kendall Square in Cambridge. Since the project began, it has been inspiring to see the positive impact Biogen continues to have on the surrounding community, from innovation and opportunities created with their Community Lab to strengthening the life sciences ecosystem. Like every complex project, we have faced challenges, but working through them has strengthened collaboration across teams and reinforced the importance of adaptability, communication, and shared goals in delivering a space that will support both our client and the broader community for years to come.
What do you wish more women knew about the opportunities available in the construction industry today?
I wish more women knew how many diverse and impactful paths exist within the construction industry beyond traditional field roles. Opportunities span project management, design, planning, sustainability, technology, etc., each playing a critical role in shaping successful projects. You do not need a construction management degree to thrive when strong communication and a willingness to learn are just as valuable as technical knowledge. As the industry continues to evolve, it increasingly values diverse perspectives, collaborative leadership, and thoughtful problem-solving, creating meaningful opportunities for women to grow their careers, influence key decisions, and help shape the future of CRE.
What emerging challenge or opportunity do you see shaping the construction industry in the next few years, and how are you preparing for it?
A major shift in the construction industry is the growing demand for smarter, high-performing buildings that balance sustainability, efficient operations, and user experience while still meeting expectations for cost, schedule, and long-term performance. Projects are becoming more complex as smart building technology and data-based decision-making influence choices much earlier in design and planning. From connected building systems and real-time performance data to predictive maintenance and occupant-centered spaces, the meaning of what makes a building “smart” continues to grow. To prepare for this, I am strengthening my understanding of building systems and smart building platforms, asking more forward-looking questions, and continuing to learn how technology can improve building intelligence and make operations more efficient over time.
What is one piece of advice or perspective you would share with women beginning their careers in the construction industry?
Ask questions, stay curious, and focus on learning how everything connects people, process, and problem-solving. Confidence grows through experience, not perfection, and every challenge is a chance to learn. Build strong relationships, listen closely, and do not underestimate the power of clear communication, organization, and follow-through. Speak up, trust your instincts, and give yourself credit for how far you have come. You belong in the room just as much as anyone else, and your perspective can help make teams stronger, decisions clearer, and projects more successful.
Share one fun or unexpected detail about yourself that colleagues might not know.
I love to go on food adventures, and I definitely have a bit of a sweet tooth… A few weeks ago, I made a trip down to Newport, Rhode Island, to try Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls from the Market on Broadway, and I highly recommend it! I’m currently on the hunt for a good (fresh) Nutella croissant, so if you know of a place, let me know!
