Christi Powell, president and CEO of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Carolinas chapter, has always loved transforming an idea into something real, like a house or a bridge. What keeps her going is the satisfaction of creating something that will be part of people’s lives for years.
In her 30-plus year career in building materials and construction, certain projects and roles stand out — not just for their scale but for the real impact they had on communities, teams and her own growth. “These moments remind me why I love this work: turning blueprints into homes, breathing new life into old spaces and connecting people to build something bigger together,” Powell said.
One particularly rewarding project was transforming an old mill into apartments.
“Walking through the finished units, hearing the echoes of the past mixed with new laughter — that’s when you feel like you're part of something timeless,” she said.
Powell advises industry leaders to better support and retain women in construction by building a respectful workplace with zero tolerance for bias or harassment, offer mentorship and training, support flexible work schedules, promote women to leadership, strengthen networks and seek feedback.
She never let it get to her when encountering those who didn’t believe women belonged on a jobsite. Now she mentors other women new to the industry to help them feel confident and ignore the “noise” of such attitudes.
Powell is currently spearheading 84 Lumber's “Build the Way” program, designed to build a network “where everyone from women-owned outfits to minority-led firms has a seat at the table.”
She is also helping to foster the next generation of women in the workforce through her Women Talk Construction podcast, co-hosted with Angela Gardner.
Powell’s advice about succeeding in the construction industry is: “Trust your gut and don’t shy away from speaking up. Stay curious, stay bold, and build your own path.”
One big misconception about women in construction is that they’re less capable of handling the tough, hands-on work, whether it’s swinging a hammer, managing a site or leading a crew, Powell noted.
“That’s nonsense. I’ve framed multi-unit buildings, coordinated complex turnkey projects and mentored teams through high-stakes jobs like revitalizing historic mills,” she said. “Women in this industry are just as skilled, resilient and innovative as anyone else.
“We bring sharp problem-solving, attention to detail and a knack for building strong teams — qualities that make projects succeed. The idea that we don’t belong or can’t keep up? It’s an outdated myth. I’ve spent my career proving it wrong.”