KIM ROY

By age 10, Kim Roy knew she wanted to build skyscrapers.

Now she leads Hitt Contracting, a $3.3 billion commercial construction business that builds structures across America.

Roy is passionate about recruiting women into her firm to help diversify the next generation of leaders in her industry. Women comprise about 10% of the construction workforce today, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“Unfortunately, many young people — especially women — lack exposure to construction and are unaware of the incredible career opportunities this business offers,” she says. “It’s more important than ever that we encourage women to explore careers in construction.”

Roy advises anyone who wants to scale a career in her industry to first master the basic principles of construction.

“Most importantly, have the courage to get out of your comfort zone,” she says. “Some of my biggest leadership jumps were when I was very uncomfortable.”

Roy joined Hitt in 1999 as an assistant project manager and became CEO in 2017, after working her way up the corporate ladder. She credits her mentors with playing a role in her success, and she aims to pay that forward.

“Our challenge is not only to entice women to consider construction, but also to ensure they have the resources to develop their skills and advance their careers,” Roy says. “I enjoy coaching emerging talent, empowering them into leadership and creating a culture where all team members feel valued and heard.”