From engineers and inspectors to project managers and skilled trades professionals, women across Sound Transit projects are breaking barriers, leading teams, and shaping the future of construction. Meet three women whose experiences reflect progress, and the ongoing challenges women face in the construction industry.
‘They've set an example’ – Andrea Mattson, Associate Consultant, Geotechnical Engineer, Pinehurst Station project
For Andrea Mattson, working on a Sound Transit project as a geotechnical engineer and inspector has been a learning experience that has allowed her to grow as she makes a difference in the construction industry.
Mattson acknowledges that women in construction still face challenges, especially when speaking up on job sites. “If I know something isn’t being done right, I do my job and say something,” she said. “Whether they like that it’s coming from me or not isn’t my problem, but it makes the situation more difficult.”
‘I’m in the best position to build bridges between widely different worlds’ – Lucile Chich, Public Art Project Manager, Sound Transit
Construction was never part of Lucile Chich’s original career plan. With a humanities and nonprofit arts background, she hadn’t considered working on construction projects until she began managing public art installations for Sound Transit.
Now, she is helping to shape construction projects while bringing a fresh perspective. “I feel like I’m in the best position to build bridges between widely different worlds, which I love doing,” Chich said.
She encourages women to trust in the value of their perspectives. “Be confident in the perspective you bring, look for allies, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and keep your head high.”
‘Do it, just do it. You’re worth it’ – Lani Kraabell, laborer & TRAC graduate, Downtown Redmond Link
For Lani Kraabell, construction offers stability, a sense of camaraderie, and the ability to support her family. Even just five months in, her journey has come with challenges. She shared that on her third construction job, she was let go after one day, along with two other women on the site.
Although the foreman didn’t specify that the dismissal was because they were women, Kraabell said, “That particular job had sent three women out to the site, and all three of us were sent back to the hall after one day.”
Despite this experience, Krabell’s outlook on her career in construction remains positive. Her advice to other women looking to enter the field is simple but powerful: “Do it, just do it. You’re worth it.”
More stories from women building our region
Andrea, Lucile, and Lani are just three of the many women who are helping build and support Sound Transit’s projects. Read more stories from women working in construction.
How you can support women in construction
You can help create more opportunities for women in construction. Whether it’s sharing information about pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, supporting inclusive workplace practices, or advocating for a culture where women can succeed, every action makes a difference. By doing our part, we can help ensure that women not only enter the industry but thrive in it.