Brittany Kalepa, Self-Perform Project Manager

 I’m Brittany Kalepa, a Self-Perform Project Manager and the Intern Lead for Hawaii, proudly part of the Swinerton ‘ohana for nearly two years. 

Professional Journey:

My journey with Swinerton began as an Assistant Project Manager in the Self-Perform Concrete Group. Coming from a background in Program Management and Heavy Civil Contracting, I embarked on a new adventure to explore the world of self-perform trades. With the guidance of an exceptional project team at DHI-2, I immersed myself in learning the intricacies of concrete work while taking on the role of Intern Lead for Hawaii. Last summer, our successful recruitment efforts led to three interns transitioning into full-time project engineers.

Inspiration to Pursue Construction:

My grandfather’s stories of his projects as an operator sparked my interest in construction from a young age. Witnessing the impact of his work inspired me to carve my career path, driven by a desire to build and create meaningful spaces.

Role and Responsibilities:

I currently serve as the Self-Perform Project Manager for the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Mixed-Use Housing Project while leading our internship program. As a Project Manager, I lead our team to deliver projects on time with top quality and profitability. As the Intern Lead, I focus on succession planning and effective recruiting strategies to nurture future talent.

Challenges and Triumphs:

Joining Swinerton, my immediate challenge was grasping the nuances of self-perform trade work. However, with the unwavering support of my team, I quickly adapted and contributed to our projects. One particular achievement that stands out is my first project, DHI-2, where pouring 40,000 cy of concrete forged strong bonds within the team, making it an unforgettable experience.

Advice for Aspiring Professionals:

To women considering a career in construction, I say embrace the opportunities confidently. Be yourself, ask questions, and seize every chance to learn and grow. The construction industry offers a multitude of paths to success, and your unique perspective is invaluable.

Swinerton’s Support and Growth:

Swinerton has been instrumental in my professional growth, providing opportunities to fulfill my passion for mentorship through the Intern Lead role. Whether achieving milestones at the project level or guiding new talent, Swinerton fosters an environment of continuous learning and development.

Personal Touch:

What I cherish most about Swinerton is the sense of community and camaraderie. Working alongside a team dedicated to building professional and personal relationships has made every project success even sweeter.

In conclusion, my journey with Swinerton has been a fulfilling blend of learning, mentorship, and teamwork. I look forward to continuing to contribute to our shared success and shaping the future of construction together!