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This article is part of a series of conversations with women leaders in the construction industry. Click here for past discussions.
As a high school student in the ACE Mentor program, Schillivia Baptiste was intrigued by a career in engineering. She participated in a local summer engineering program at Manhattan College that led her to majors in civil engineering in both college and graduate school and later to start her own company.
As CEO of Mineola, New York-based Laland Baptiste Construction Management and Engineering Consultants, Baptiste is committed to getting more women and people of color into engineering and STEM jobs.
Baptiste is president of the New York chapter of Professional Women in Construction, a non-profit organization that supports and connects women and works to promote diversity within architecture, engineering, construction and related industries.
Here, Baptiste talks to Construction Dive about running his company, being a mentor organization and the importance of networking.
This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
CONSTRUCTION DIVER: What led you to start your own company?
Schillivia Baptiste
Permission granted by Laland Baptiste
SCHILLIVIA BAPTISTE: Starting my own company has given me the opportunity and flexibility to work on projects that empower communities. Construction and development projects are intentional and have the potential to transform communities and neighborhoods.
As important as it is to me that projects are structurally sound, it’s also important to me that they have a positive impact on the environment.
What types of projects are you working on?
We were recently awarded the lead contract as the construction manager for the New York City Department of Design and Construction Mentoring Program, the city’s first mayoral mentoring program. As a MWBE firm, the transition from sub-consultant to lead consultant allowed us to handle multi-million dollar contracts, opening the door to more city and state projects.
Since then, we’ve won notable projects with the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation, the Office of General Services and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
What are the benefits of working in construction?
Laland Baptiste has been able to advise other companies, restore and beautify nature reserves, help rebuild neighborhoods affected by natural disasters, and even work on a project to improve a local homeless shelter.
Another benefit is witnessing the transformation of a two-dimensional drawing into a tangible real-world structure. It is the visual confirmation of the work we do, bringing our designs to life.
How has your involvement with PWC changed your view of the industry?
My involvement has given me access to an invaluable brotherhood within the AEC industry. I have gained a network of like-minded women who are leading businesses and thriving in an industry that is predominantly male.
PWC offers informative industry programming, exclusive member resources, leadership and networking opportunities, and scholarships and mentoring programs. Members represent a broad spectrum of people from the construction and related industries, and include professional women and men, private companies and public agencies.
As the current president of the New York chapter, I have gained valuable insight into leaders across the country within the AEC industry who are committed to advancing the cause of elevating women in the workplace.
What advice would you give to young women considering construction as a career?
You have the power to shape the world you want to live in. You have the knowledge, vision and drive to succeed in this industry.
Start with a solid foundation by choosing one Curriculum accredited by ABET. Participate in industry organizations such as Professional Women in Construction, the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Society of Women Engineers or the National Society of Black Engineers. These groups offer invaluable programming and networking opportunities that will help you advance your career.
Never stop learning – continuous growth is key to staying relevant. Remember, the moment you think you know it all is the moment you risk falling behind.
Most importantly, love what you do. Don’t chase the money; will follow Focus on being a difference maker, creating an impact for your generation and future generations.
