Leading in construction has always been the goal for Yenisei Bell

“I wanted to sit at the table where they were talking about success and development. I wanted to advocate and advance the role of women in construction and inspire the new generation to join the industry by setting an example. Championing trailblazers amongst us, fostering inclusion, and driving transformative change in the trades and construction industry.”

Today, she is a Vice President of Construction and also leads her own company, YGB Design Group. Bell is also working to advance women in construction as president of NAWIC Chapter 240 Greater New York and the DEI Northeast Regional Chair.

Bell drew inspiration early on, with her uncle, an architect and engineer, playing a significant role. “I remember accompanying him to a construction site where I had the opportunity to observe the installation of rebar and the pouring of concrete for a cement roof. Since then, my love for construction has only grown stronger.” When she was 10 years old, she glimpsed her future when she saw a female engineer in a hard hat on a jobsite.

Yenisei Bell began her career as an architect, focusing on shaping her designs with forward-thinking and demonstrating the importance of architecture as a means of expression of human psychology. However, when she moved to North America from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, she found herself starting her career as an architectural designer instead. Despite this, she was determined to progress in the construction field and sought to take on more important roles and projects over time.

Now, with more than 18 years of experience in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry, Bell has extensive expertise in both public and private sectors, including luxury multimillion-dollar residential projects, educational projects, and non-profit organizations. She currently focuses

on construction projects of public interest, significant social impact, and disaster recovery. As a working mother and as a woman in construction, Bell was all too familiar with the gender gap and the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry. She credits her perseverance, dedication and patience for her success.

“With all honesty, I can say that I have a deep love and appreciation for this field, even on the most challenging days,” Bell says. “I firmly believe that every obstacle we face, every step we take towards growth, and every experience we encounter in our daily work life is a chance for us to learn, evolve, and become the best possible versions of ourselves.”

While Bell’s future goal is to advance legislation to build a better environment for all work in construction, regardless of gender, race, or background, she is amplifying women in the industry through NAWIC.

“Despite the news about the industry’s efforts to promote gender diversity and recruit more women, the gender gap remains significant,” she says. “However, the largest organizations are now making more efforts to promote women into leadership positions and inspire young generations to follow in their footsteps.”

Bell joined NAWIC because she wanted to engage with an organization that “has the woman in construction’s back, to provide support, one-on-one experience, guidance and promote growth. And help grow confidence, talk about our challenges, disparity, and our day-to-day struggles.”

For women considering a career in construction, Bell offers this advice, “Don’t let the stereotype in this industry dissuade you from being a part of it. Be confident, be proud. Also, don’t let it harden you. There are days when you’re going to get your feelings hurt but come through it by staying true to yourself. Stay Woman Strong!”

If you know of a NAWIC member that deserves to be recognized as a Best Person for the Job, contact us today!