This article is one in a series of conversations with women leaders in the construction industry. Click here for past discussions.

When Kim Davids was in eighth grade, her geometry teacher assigned a project that involved recreating her home to scale on paper. The project sparked an interest in building design. 

At the time, she thought she wanted to be an architect, but soon realized that it wasn’t actually design that she was passionate about. Instead, she was intrigued by the building process. 

This revelation led her to pursue civil engineering at the University of Illinois. Since graduation she has worked in various roles for several construction firms including Des Moines, Iowa-based The Weitz Co. and Chicago-headquartered firms W.E. O’Neil and Clayco before pivoting to construction association work.

For nearly two years, Davids has been the president and CEO of the Arizona Builders Alliance, a statewide organization of nearly 400 member firms that partners with the Associated General Contractors of America and Associated Builders and Contractors. 

Here, Davids talks with Construction Dive about her role with the ABA, the benefits of working in construction and how technology has transformed the industry.

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

CONSTRUCTION DIVE: What are a few of the initiatives you’ve most enjoyed working on in your current job?

KIM DAVIDS: I’m proud to say our political action committee has been my favorite initiative that I’ve been a part of at the ABA. Our PAC’s purpose is clear: to support candidates who advance the commercial and industrial construction industry. 

This is impactful to the construction industry because by strategically supporting local and state candidates, we ensure the construction industry’s voice is heard and represented in the political process. The PAC serves as a powerful vehicle for our members to champion the interests of the business community and while contributions are voluntary, they play a crucial role in safeguarding our industry’s future.

How has the industry changed since you started your career?

Technology has revolutionized the construction industry. When I began as a project engineer, we managed multiple rolls of plans, enough to fill a pickup truck bed, on both paper and Mylar. I personally stamped every sheet in the set. 

Today, digital plans upload to tablets, allowing real-time changes on jobsites. This example illustrates our industry’s progress, and artificial intelligence will only accelerate this transformation.

What benefits are there to working in construction?

Construction offers the unique satisfaction of creating tangible structures with one’s own hands. The impact of driving through town and seeing the buildings you helped construct is incredible. 

Early in my career, I had the opportunity to build a new library in my hometown. Our team’s photograph, though not my most flattering, hung in that library for years and may still be there today. This visual reminder serves as a testament to the lasting impact of our work in the construction industry.

What advice would you give to young women considering construction as a career?

Say yes, often, and throw your name in the hat. Professional advancement often hinges on seizing opportunities and demonstrating confidence. Throughout my career, I’ve learned the importance of volunteering for new challenges, even when feeling uncertain. 

A pivotal moment for me occurred when one of my past employers sought a new regional office leader. While initially recommending industry colleagues, I hesitated to consider myself. However, when the CEO inquired about candidate sources, he directly asked if I was interested. I said yes and never looked back. My affirmative response led to a transformative career step.

In addition, the construction industry currently faces a significant workforce shortage, creating opportunities in both trades and management roles. As a four-year degree holder, I can attest that the trades offer substantial earning potential. While demanding, these careers provide invaluable rewards for both men and women who pursue them.