Ruth Alcotas Morey, Preconstruction Manager,

I’m Ruth Alcotas Morey, and for the past 15 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a Preconstruction Manager at Swinerton. 

Discovering My Path: From Junior Estimator to Preconstruction Manager

My journey with Swinerton began unexpectedly at a Spring Career Fair back in 2008. Little did I know that this encounter would set the course for my career. Starting as a Junior Estimator, I gradually climbed the ranks, assuming roles as Estimator and Senior Estimator, and eventually landing my current role as Preconstruction Manager.

From Design Engineering to Construction: Embracing New Horizons

Construction wasn’t initially on my career radar during college. I had aspirations of pursuing a career in design engineering. However, after stepping into a preconstruction role at Swinerton, I found my passion ignited. The dynamic nature of the construction industry and the opportunity to bring projects to life captured my imagination, and I never looked back.

Guiding Success: Role and Responsibilities

As a Preconstruction Manager, my responsibilities are diverse and far-reaching. From guiding pricing and collaborating with owners and designers to reviewing contracts and ensuring constructability, my role is integral to the success of our projects. Partnering with my manager, Matt Ventimiglia, we provide structure to the preconstruction process, empowering our team to excel and secure projects. Through our efforts within the National Preconstruction Group, we aim to foster a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge-sharing, ensuring the sustainability of our practices for future generations.

Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Achievements

One of the most significant challenges I’ve faced in my role is transitioning to remote work entirely. However, this obstacle has fueled my determination to build strong connections with my team, whether through virtual meetings or in-person visits. One project that stands out as a significant achievement is the conversion of a trade center into a hotel during my tenure in the Hawaii Division. This experience allowed me to witness a project’s lifecycle firsthand and cultivate meaningful relationships across departments.

Empowering Women in Construction: Advice and Support

To aspiring women considering a career in construction, I say: Go for it with confidence! As a working mother and a woman in construction, I take pride in breaking stereotypes and inspiring the next generation. Swinerton has been instrumental in supporting my growth, offering opportunities for advancement, and fostering a culture of inclusivity.

Embracing Swinerton’s Culture of Care

What I cherish most about working at Swinerton is our unmatched culture. The company’s genuine investment in its employees is unparalleled. During a personal tragedy, the outpouring of support from Swinerton—from the CEO’s heartfelt letter to the dedicated assistance from my local team—underscored the strength of our Swinerton family.

Beyond Work: Finding Joy in CreativityOutside of work, I find solace in painting, particularly paint-by-numbers. This creative outlet allows me to unwind and indulge in my love for structure and step-by-step instructions.

As I continue my journey with Swinerton, I am grateful for the opportunities, support, and camaraderie that define our Swinerton family. Together, let’s continue building dreams and shaping the future of construction.