Pioneering Black Women in Construction: Celebrating the Trailblazers

The construction industry has seen significant contributions from women over the years, among them many African American women playing a vital role in breaking barriers. Their stories of resilience, determination, and achievement have paved the way for future generations. Though there are too many to mention them all, the following are four Black women in construction who have made an indelible mark.  

Beverly Loraine Greene (1915–1957): In 1942 Greene became the first African American woman to be a licensed architect in the U.S. and the first to graduate from the University of Illinois with an architectural engineering degree. But she didn't stop there. She went on to earn master's degrees in city planning and housing and in architecture. She worked on numerous projects including the UNESCO United Nations Headquarters in Paris.  Sadly, she passed away at the age of 41. 

Norma Merrick Sklarek (1926–2012): Sklarek was the first Black woman to become a licensed architect in both New York and California. In 1959 she was also the first Black woman in construction to become a member of the American Institute of Architects. After receiving her bachelor's degree from Columbia University in 1950, Sklarek was denied employment by 19 architectural firms. Eventually she secured a job as a junior draftsperson at the New York Department of Public Works. After four years, she registered for the New York State architect's licensure examination, hoping that this certification would allow her access to employment at an architecture firm.  

Sklarek became the first Black woman licensed architect in the state of New York in 1954, after passing the licensure exam on her first try. In 1960, she accepted the position of the first female vice president for Gruen and Associates in Los Angeles, where she would work for two decades. In 1985 she co-founded the firm of Siegel Sklarek Diamond, which quickly became the largest women-owned architectural firm in the country. Sklarek retired in 1992. Following her retirement, she was appointed by the state governor to the California Architects Board and served as chair of the American Institute of Architects National Ethics Council for several years.  

Hattie Scott Peterson (1913-1993): Peterson is recognized as the first African American woman to become a licensed civil engineer in the U.S., graduating from Howard University with B.S. in civil engineering in 1946. After moving to Sacramento, California in 1947, Peterson began working as a survey and cartographic engineer for the U.S. Geological Survey. She worked on significant projects, including the Alaskan Highway and military construction during World War II. Peterson joined the local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in 1954, making her the first female engineer to work for USACE. Peterson's work was focused on flood risk reduction, but she also advocated for engineering as a profession for women and women's rights as a whole. 

Cheryl McKissack Daniel: As a 5th-generation leader, she currently runs the nation's oldest African American and female-owned construction firm, McKissack & McKissack, which has roots dating back to a Tennessee slave, Moses McKissic, in the 1790s. The firm has contributed to major projects like the US Airways International Terminal in Philadelphia, LaGuardia Airport, and the African Burial Ground Monument in NYC. The book, The Black Family Who Built America, describes the family's journey from slavery to successful, multi-generational construction firm. 

As we celebrate the contributions of Black women in construction, it's crucial to recognize the systemic challenges they have faced. From overcoming racial stereotypes to balancing family responsibilities while pursuing careers, the journey has not been easy. Yet their stories remind us of the importance of courage and perseverance and the vital role of diversity in stimulating growth within the industry. 

The legacy of Black women in construction is a powerful testament to the impact of trailblazers who have broken barriers and inspired new generations. As the industry continues to evolve, the lessons learned from their journeys—resilience, leadership, and community—remain as relevant as ever. By recognizing and amplifying their contributions, we can encourage a more inclusive and equitable future.