Women’s History Month: Women in Construction

For decades, construction has been a male-dominated industry. But the times, they are a changin’. More and more women are not only entering the field but leading the way—running businesses, managing major projects, and redefining what leadership in construction looks like.

In honor of Women’s History Month, we want to shine a light on some incredible women and women-owned firms in the Boston’ area. After all, when we help you find the perfect fixer-upper, you’ll need some help!

Sarah Lawson – S+H Construction

Sarah Lawson never planned to own a construction firm. Raised in Lincoln, Massachusetts, she grew up learning the craft from her father—and even had a job framing residential renovations in college—but her early career was in technical writing. Everything changed in 2006 when she joined S+H Construction, a luxury residential construction firm. A decade later, Sarah wasn’t just part of the team, she was leading it, overseeing a crew of skilled craftsmen known for their attention to detail and precision.

Under her leadership, S+H Construction has flourished, earning accolades like Best of Boston Home 2024 for high-end remodeling. Beyond running a successful firm, she shares her knowledge as the co-host of Builder’s Notebook, a podcast offering insights into home building and renovations.

Sarah’s impact extends beyond her company. As a Builder Director on the Board of Directors for the Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston, she actively contributes to the industry’s growth and development. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to not just building homes but also strengthening the construction community. More importantly, she serves as an inspiration for women looking to break barriers and thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries. 

Lisa Wexler – Elaine ConstructionAs the third-generation head of Elaine Construction, Lisa Wexler is forging her own path. She has taken her grandfather's company and built it into a high-powered player for corporate, institutional, and healthcare developments. Under her leadership her firm is ranked as one of the top woman-owned firms in Massachusetts. Lisa is also an ardent supporter of diversity in the construction industry, seeking to open doors to women and minority communities—social justice is a huge part of her ethos.

Kaplan Construction – A Woman-Owned Industry LeaderKaplan Construction is more than a construction company—it's an industry leader. Established in 1976 and now owned by a woman, Kaplan routinely appears on lists of the state's top woman-owned businesses. From residential development to community clubs, their projects define Boston's skyline and the strength of its neighborhoods

Bald Hill Builders – Diversity in ActionConstruction diversity is more than a buzz phrase to Bald Hill Builders; it's their business. This female-owned company is a general contracting, pre-construction planning, and design-build firm. Their efforts are bringing new ideas and diverse hiring practices to the Boston construction industry.

Cindy Stumpo – The Tough-as-Nails BuilderIf you've ever seen HGTV's Tough As Nails, you recognize Cindy Stumpo. She's the owner of C. Stumpo Development, and has built a reputation for high-end residential buildings, demonstrating that women can succeed—and flourish—in what is still a man's field. While constructing houses, Cindy is an outspoken advocate for getting women involved in construction and demonstrating that grit, perseverance, and skill mean more than gender.

These women and organizations prove that the construction industry is evolving. It’s no longer just about who can swing the heaviest hammer—it’s about leadership, vision, and the ability to build something meaningful. As more women step into these roles, the industry becomes stronger, more innovative, and more inclusive. Boston’s construction scene is changing, and these trailblazers are leading the way.