We are incredibly proud to announce that Linda Elben, Assistant Project Manager at Willow Construction, was recently selected as an Honoree in RedTeam’s inaugural Women in Construction program, "Celebrating Women in Construction: Breaking Barriers and Building Futures." Linda’s unwavering dedication, determination, and proactive approach to overcoming challenges have not only advanced her career but have also helped break down barriers for women in a historically male-dominated field.
Linda’s journey at Willow Construction began in September 2021, when she applied for an administrative assistant position. Her potential was quickly recognized, and she was hired as a Project Engineer, which allowed her to develop her technical skills and contribute directly to our operations team.
Her first major project, the construction of a 30,000-square-foot Medical Office Building on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, was a pivotal moment in her career. This high-impact project not only transformed the skyline but also provided essential healthcare services to a rural community. Linda’s dedication to this project, working long hours and balancing her work and family life, showcased her resilience and passion for making a tangible difference in her community.
As Linda’s career progressed, she encountered challenges familiar to many women in construction—navigating gender bias, the wage gap, and hurdles in career advancement. However, Linda turned these challenges into fuel for her career advancement. When a position she was anticipating was not offered to her, she did not succumb to discouragement. Instead, she took control of her career by advocating for herself, expressing her aspirations to her supervisors, and creating a path for future growth. As a result, she was entrusted with managing two complex projects, which she successfully completed, earning her a well-deserved promotion to Assistant Project Manager.
Beyond her professional achievements, Linda is committed to paving the way for the next generation of construction professionals. Through her volunteer work at career fairs and as an ACE Mentor to local high school students, Linda empowers young girls to embrace the construction industry. She shares her experiences, teaching them to advocate for themselves and to never settle for marginal tasks. Her mentorship not only provides guidance but also inspires the next wave of female leaders in the industry.
Linda’s journey of breaking down barriers is far from over. She has set her sights on becoming a Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC), with training scheduled to begin in March 2025. This certification will enhance her expertise and position her for future opportunities as a Project Manager. Her commitment to continuous learning and breaking the glass ceiling in the construction industry is a testament to her character and resolve.
Linda Elben embodies the qualities of a trailblazer—initiative, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to advancing her career and empowering others.
