Carissa Weeks
Carissa Weeks is a dedicated Bid Coordinator for an electrical contractor based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with seven years of experience in the construction industry. Originally trained in healthcare administration, Carissa transitioned into construction after a company merger eliminated her previous role. She struggled to find another Healthcare Admin position, and wound up working in Pest Control. Encouraged by her sister-in-law, who recognized her drive and motivation, Carissa discovered her true calling within the construction field. She began as an administrative assistant for an HVAC company, then transitioned into a general contractors office and quickly demonstrated her initiative and interest in growth, which led to her promotion as a project coordinator. Over the past two years, Carissa has specialized in pre-construction and estimating, having completed a course in Fundamentals of Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating at Florida International University. She has developed expertise in managing RFQs (Requests for Quotation), acting as the primary liaison between general contractors and vendors. In this capacity, Carissa coordinates invitations to bid, reviewing drawings and specifications, collects proposals, and prepares detailed scope sheets to facilitate project awards. Her ability to blend technical knowledge with organizational excellence has made her an invaluable asset to her team and the projects she supports. Beyond her technical skills, Carissa is passionate about fostering collaboration and professionalism within the construction industry. She actively supports women in construction through organizations such as NAWIC Gr. Ft. Lauderdale Chapter 78 and emphasizes character, accountability, and work ethic as the foundation for success. Carissa credits her growth to persistence, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence, and she remains grateful to have found a role where her skills, passion, and drive align perfectly with her career aspirations.
• Fundamentals of Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating
• Notary Public
• Adult, Child and Infant, Pediatric CPR/AED
• FIU Certification
• National Association of Women in Construction
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to not giving up on myself. I kind of fell into this field. My background was actually in healthcare administration, and my company had a huge merge and positions were eliminated, and I kind of struggled to find work within my field after that. I ended up working in Pest Control. That's where where my stepping stone began. I worked there for only a for a short time. I was fortunate enough that my sister-in-law had worked in construction, and she referred me to an HVAC company. She felt I had the drive and the motivation for the trade. And she was right. I progressed very quickly, going on to work for a General Contractor, and eventually I went on to become a Project Coordinator for an Architectural Firm. I am now a Bid Coordinator for an Electrical Contractor, and I could not be happier doing what I do now. I definitely found my niche, and I feel like I found my calling within this industry. I have thrived, I have succeeded, and I'm very grateful that this is where I landed. I love my field and love the work I do.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Just believe in yourself. Don't be intimidated in a "mans world". Stay grounded. Listen, watch, learn, and grow from the mentors around you. Absorb everything!
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges- I would say, as a bid coordinator, I face intense pressure managing tight deadlines, complex project specifications, and an abundant amount of vendor communications. You have to be extremely meticulous, organized, and diligent.
Opportunities- I have been fortunate enough to start networking on behalf of my company, and women in construction. I take much pride in that, as I am not only representing my company as a polished professional, by myself, on behalf of women in the trade. It's my reassurance that everything I've worked so hard for, has paid off. And I am forever grateful to all the men and women that have mentored me along the way.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In both her work and personal life, Carissa Weeks values connection, loyalty, and balance. She places great importance on her family, cherishing time with her husband and their dogs, and finds joy and renewal in the outdoors, particularly through gardening. These values nurturing relationships, staying grounded, and fostering growth reflect not only her personal priorities but also the dedication, care, and integrity she brings to her professional work in the construction industry.