MT. PLEASANT, SC — Choate Construction Company hosted its annual Women in Industry Kick-Off to the Year Ahead, bringing together nearly 100 women from across the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry to celebrate, empower, and support one another. More than just a networking event, this annual oyster roast and Lowcountry boil at Rivers + Glen Trading Co. aims to foster connections and strengthen the foundations for a more dynamic industry.
“The AEC industry thrives on collaboration, and at Choate, we take great pride in fostering a culture that invests in one another. It’s not just our responsibility — it’s our passion,” said Quinn Balderson, Director of Business Development for Choate Construction’s Charleston division. “Being part of this incredible community is both an honor and a privilege, and there’s nothing more rewarding than building great things together.”
The event was hosted by Choate’s Women in Construction Employee Resource Group (ERG) and led by Balderson. While progress continues, women still represent only 14.3 percent of the construction workforce and a small but growing percentage of architecture and engineering professionals, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
This event — along with others held throughout the year — is meant to recognize the contributions of women in the industry and encourage them to expand their networks, lean on one another, and continue shaping the future of AEC.
“Uplifting the women who are driving change in our industry is essential,” said Matt Brewer, President & CEO of Choate. “Team members like Quinn and our Women in Construction ERG embody the ingenuity and collaborative spirit that are transforming AEC and paving the way for a stronger future.”