Gillian Levi, Founder & CEO of Odigo Services LLC

Gillian Levi, founder and CEO of Odigo Services LLC in Houston, Texas, was inspired early in life to pursue a construction career. “In high school, I attended two engineering camps because I planned to become a civil engineer. Unfortunately, a math teacher caused me to question whether I was capable of handling the required coursework.”

Entering Texas A&M University, Levi chose a different major and built a career in education, curriculum development and organizational leadership. Years later, she came full circle through Odigo Services. 

“I may not be a civil engineer, but today I manage civil construction projects and lead a company that performs roadway and infrastructure maintenance,” Levi said. “The organizational, instructional and project-management skills I developed throughout my career became some of my greatest strengths in construction.”

An important milestone was earning the opportunity to perform Houston roadway maintenance projects. “Seeing our crews repair streets used by thousands of residents reminds me a growing small business can make a visible contribution to its community.”  

“I am also proud of bringing together my experience in education, workforce development and construction,” she said. “Through Odigo Learning, I help contractors strengthen their leadership and business systems, navigate procurement and compete for larger opportunities.”

What continues to motivate her is knowing her work has a tangible impact. “We improve infrastructure, create employment opportunities and help other contractors build stronger businesses. I am not only building projects — I am helping build people, companies and communities.”

Levi noted that barriers facing women in the industry involve access, credibility and opportunity. “We may be invited into the industry, but we are still frequently required to prove our technical knowledge and leadership ability before receiving the same trust and responsibility afforded to others.” Women-owned firms can earn certifications and become eligible to compete, but certification alone does not guarantee access to meaningful contracts, capital, bonding or long-term relationships, she said. 

“Women also remain underrepresented in the informal networks where information, introductions and opportunities are often exchanged,” she added. “The industry must move beyond simply encouraging women to participate. Women need access to field experience, mentorship, financing, decision-making roles and projects that allow them to build a credible record of performance.”

Levi said relationships with prime contractors, public agencies, insurance and bonding professionals, financial institutions, educational partners and other business owners have been essential to her growth.The most helpful relationships have transcended exchanging business cards to providing honest guidance, shared knowledge, meaningful introductions and real opportunities to perform, Levi said, adding those types of partnerships help small construction businesses build lasting capacity.

If she could give her younger self advice, she would say: “Do not allow someone else’s assessment of your ability to become the limit you place on your future. For years, I believed that not becoming a civil engineer meant that door had closed. I now understand that careers do not always follow a straight path. The knowledge and leadership skills I developed in education, curriculum design and project management ultimately prepared me to lead construction projects and build a construction company.”

She would also tell herself to not wait until she felt completely ready. “Ask questions, study the plans and specifications, visit the jobsite, seek knowledgeable advisors and keep learning. Confidence is not something we must possess before taking the first step. It develops as we prepare, act and gain experience.”

Outside of work, Levi enjoys traveling, having new experiences and learning about different cultures and people. 

“As a first-generation American with Trinidadian roots, I have always appreciated the ways culture, history and community shape who we become.”

Levi also enjoys reading historical fiction and nonfiction.

“At heart, I am a continuous learner. Whether I am exploring a new place, reading a book, learning to play a song or helping someone develop a new skill, I find the greatest fulfillment in growing and seeing other people succeed.”