Nicole Bekken, Assistant Project Manager

I’m Nicole Bekken, an Assistant Project Manager at Swinerton with a year and a half of enriching experiences.

Embarking on a New Path: My Professional Journey

Before joining Swinerton, I spent nearly two decades as an Interior Designer. However, I discovered that my true passion lay in Construction Administration, a facet of my job that I found particularly gratifying. The opportunity to dive deeper into construction was immensely appealing, especially considering my positive experiences collaborating with Swinerton on various projects. Transitioning into this new role felt like a natural progression for me.

Nurturing Projects: Role and Responsibilities

As an Assistant Project Manager in the Special Projects division, I am immersed in a dynamic role overseeing multiple projects simultaneously. From the initial stages of estimating to the final turnover to the client, I relish the opportunity to engage with each project holistically. Drawing upon my background as an Interior Designer, I thoroughly enjoy visualizing projects from inception and collaborating with our trade partners to navigate opportunities and constraints. My role allows me to bridge the gap between design and execution, ensuring seamless project delivery.

Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs

Transitioning from a career in design to construction presented its own challenges, particularly regarding the learning curve. However, I’ve embraced these challenges as opportunities for growth, finding that many of my skills are transferable and complementary to my new role. Recently, I had the privilege of working on two projects for a Confidential Client, building upon a relationship established during my time in design. These projects stand as a testament to the journey of growth and adaptation that I’ve undergone at Swinerton.

Empowering Aspiring Professionals: Advice and Support

To women considering a career in construction, my advice would be never to hesitate to ask questions. Curiosity is a powerful tool for learning and growth, and the supportive environment at Swinerton fosters collaboration and learning. Furthermore, Swinerton has supported my professional development, providing invaluable mentorship and resources to help me excel.

A Personal Connection: Finding Fulfillment Beyond Work

What I cherish most about working at Swinerton is the diversity of projects and the people. Building meaningful relationships with teammates, clients, and trade partners is integral to our success, and witnessing the fruition of quality projects is incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, I find solace in traveling with my family and exploring the beauty of nature in national parks across the country.