From space race to fiber optic ace  

Kate Howick is Director of Operations, Engineering and Construction Division of Danella based in Florida. She oversees all aspects of their design-build fiber optic network deployment operations specifically within the service provider environment. She describes her work like this, "I seek to find ways to improve program efficiencies and the quality of deliverables to our customers. I serve as the project liaison between our design teams, our construction crews, and our clients." 

Early in her career Kate had the opportunity to join a local general contractor that specialized in structural steel installation at the Kennedy Space Center. She says she was fortunate, "I was working closely with project managers, QC managers, and ironworkers to build some of the launch complexes that are currently being utilized in today's space race. It helped spark a passion for an industry that I did not know existed. In school, I had always loved math and science and aside from the obvious math/science related career paths, I was unaware how these skills were transferable over to construction. It was just not part of the conversation back then." 

As with many women, one of her biggest challenges was finding her own way and not getting pigeon-holed in a role that limited her abilities.  "All too often, being a female in the office, we get relegated to some of the responsibilities that typically align with gender norms," she says. "Seeing more and more women on the jobsite, in the trades, and in a leadership-capacity is empowering and I am excited to see this trend continue." 

Asked what she enjoys most in her career, Kate responds, "It's the problem-solving aspect of what I do. Every day is different and brings new challenges. Aside from being extremely proud of the relationships that I have built with my team and clients, I am proud of the work that we do in the industry to bring high speed internet access to underserved communities." She points out that the use of new technologies designed to improve production, operations and quality has been interesting to watch, but notes, "I still love a good spreadsheet though!" 

Kate believes the future is bright for new generations of women in construction. "My hope is that we can increase awareness of this unique profession and plant the seed early on while some of these girls are in elementary or middle school. It's a great industry to be in and if more girls see these as exciting career opportunities we can change the game," she says. She notes that her own goals are to continue to grow in the industry, expand her team, work her way through some additional certifications, all while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.  

She credits NAWIC with helping her expand her job skills. "NAWIC has given me the tools to refine my leadership ability and try my hand at some of the more intricate aspects of running an organization, like marketing, accounting, business development and web-design. Through NAWIC, I have established an outreach platform that otherwise wouldn't have been possible. Being so heavily involved in my local chapter, I have been able to see community programs and initiatives come to life further supporting NAWIC's mission, all to the benefit of growing the profession and improving the places we live." She adds that her company, Danella, "provides tremendous allyship and support for women like me looking to step out and take the lead." 

What advice does she have for women thinking about getting into the construction industry? "There is no better place to physically see the fruits of your labor than through a career in construction. Knowing that you helped build the infrastructure that so many rely on every day is extremely rewarding."