In honor of Women in Construction Week and our theme, Wise Women Rise Together, we asked three of our Wise Women to reflect on the mentors who have shaped their growth and success in the industry. Up next is Victoria Aldersley, shining a spotlight on her mentor, Stephanie Pappas!
Read below to learn how their mentorship has fostered continued support—even as they moved on to different projects. ⬇️
👷♀️From: Victoria
👷♀️To: Stephanie
❓What projects have you collaborated on with Stephanie so far?
“I primarily collaborated with Steph on the 51 Melcher TI Fit-out for Floors 1-4. Additionally, I supported her on the sister project, 51 Melcher Lab Repositioning.”
❓What did she teach you, or what challenges did she help you navigate during these projects?
“She taught me a great deal about expanding my skills as an effective and successful Project Manager. She mentored me in Owner/Owner Representative engagement and collaborating with the design team. As we worked on the 51 Melcher project, we faced numerous hurdles within a tight timeframe. Through these obstacles, she showed me how to adapt, think outside the box, and propose alternative solutions to achieve the result.”
❓How has her guidance contributed to your professional and personal growth?
“Steph and I no longer work exclusively together like we did on the 51 Melcher projects as I am supporting other teams on other projects and so is she. However, if I have a high-level question, Steph is an office away always willing to provide an answer if she can; that goes both ways, we are shoulders to lean on in times of support. Unknowingly to her, she has helped to bolster a confidence in me that I did not know I could possess.”
❓Why is having a female mentor important to you in this industry?
“Having a mentor like Steph gave me the opportunity and confidence to ask the ‘dumb’ questions. During my time at Wise, I’ve worked with many Project Managers, but I can confidently say that Steph ranks among the top. While the construction industry has traditionally been perceived as male-dominated, working with Steph and my counterparts with the Wise family has shown me an abundance of hardworking women making a place for themselves. It’s truly inspiring to witness every day.”