Shina Devon, Project Engineer

I’m Shina Devon, and being a part of the Swinerton family for the past year has been an exciting ride. Let me take you through my journey from university aspirations to thriving in the construction industry.

The Road to Swinerton: A Serendipitous Encounter

My journey with Swinerton began at the University of Southern California (USC). Participating in the ASC Construction Management Competition through CMAA introduced me to some remarkable USC alumni thriving at Swinerton. Intrigued by their stories and the company’s reputation for excellence, I decided to pursue an internship at Swinerton to gain real-world experience. Little did I know that this decision would lead me to a fulfilling career path.

A Passion for Construction: From Design to Reality

Although I initially embarked on a path in design and architecture, I yearned to witness the entire lifecycle of a project. Joining CMAA at USC sparked my interest in construction management and innovative technology, ultimately steering me toward a career in construction. The dynamic nature of the industry and the opportunity to contribute to tangible projects captivated my imagination, and I haven’t looked back since.

Navigating Responsibilities: The Role of a Project Engineer

As a Project Engineer at Swinerton, my days are a whirlwind of activities, from overseeing document control to collaborating with design teams and coordinating trades. I thrive on diverse tasks and have the chance to tackle new challenges head-on. Whether streamlining submittal reviews or ensuring timely material procurement, I’m committed to contributing to the success of our projects and the overall team.

Conquering Challenges and Celebrating Milestones

Transitioning into my role presented its fair share of challenges, from managing task priorities to overcoming the pressure of high expectations. However, I’ve learned to embrace the journey, leaning on my team for support and leveraging Swinerton’s collective expertise to overcome obstacles. I take pride in resolving long-term coordination issues and witnessing our plans materialize into reality, one step at a time.

Empowering Women in Construction: Advice and Support

To aspiring women considering a career in construction, I offer this advice: Own your worth and embrace your confidence. You are here for a reason, and your unique perspective and skills have the power to drive positive change in the industry. Don’t apologize for being ambitious and assertive—embrace it!

Swinerton: A Beacon of Support and Growth

What sets Swinerton apart is its unwavering commitment to employee growth and development. Swinerton fosters an environment where your aspirations are valued and nurtured, from leadership support to diverse career opportunities. It’s more than just a job; it’s a community where individuals are empowered to thrive and excel.

The Swinerton Spirit: Camaraderie and Collaboration

What I cherish most about working at Swinerton is the camaraderie and support permeating every aspect of the company culture. Here, you’re not just a cog in a wheel but a valued member of a tight-knit community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to problem-solve, take ownership of projects, and collaborate with incredible colleagues who inspire me daily.

Beyond the Blueprint: Personal Passions

Outside of work, I have a passion for languages. Fluent in Spanish and proficient in French, German, Italian, and Japanese, I’m on a mission to follow in my grandfather’s multilingual footsteps. Learning languages broadens my horizons and fuels my curiosity and thirst for knowledge.

Reflecting on my journey with Swinerton, I’m grateful for the opportunities, challenges, and growth that have shaped my career. Here’s to many more years of learning, innovating, and building together!