Her Story
About Codi
Codi Newsom brings more than 20 years of experience in the AEC industry, with a career spanning program, project, and construction management, strategic growth, and business development for complex public-sector programs. As Vice President and National Justice Sector Pursuit Leader at STV, she leads strategic pursuits and growth initiatives for justice and public safety projects nationwide, identifying opportunities, developing client and industry relationships, building strong teaming partnerships, and bringing together the right teams to position projects for success.
Prior to joining STV, Codi spent more than two decades serving public-sector clients as an owner’s representative, leading program, project, and construction management efforts from early planning and procurement through design, construction, and closeout. Her experience includes justice, healthcare, higher education, civic and municipal, and aviation projects, with a particular focus on complex justice and detention programs. She has also held regional operational and national justice-sector leadership roles, giving her a unique perspective that combines project delivery, client service, business operations, and strategic growth.
Codi began her career in structural engineering and holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from the University of Wyoming and a Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis from Texas A&M University. She is a licensed Professional Engineer and LEED Accredited Professional.
Outside of her AEC career, Codi is a small business owner serving her community and mom of three. She is passionate about building strong relationships, mentoring others, and leading with authenticity, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the people and communities she serves. Guided by a commitment to honesty, integrity, and perseverance, she continues to mentor the next generation of professionals while championing authenticity for women navigating traditionally male-dominated fields.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Codi
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to following through. I’ve never been someone who gives up when things get difficult, uncomfortable, or simply aren’t enjoyable. I believe success often comes down to grit: being willing to put in the work, push through challenges, learn from setbacks, and keep moving forward when it would be easier to stop. I also believe in showing up for people, doing what I say I’m going to do, and holding myself to a high standard in everything I take on.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to never bring forward a problem without also bringing a potential solution. The solution you propose may not ultimately be the one chosen, but taking the time to think through the issue, consider the options, and recommend a path forward demonstrates initiative, critical thinking, and leadership. More importantly, it builds the confidence and ability to think independently, trust your judgment, and develop your own perspective. Over time, that mindset helps you grow from someone who identifies challenges into someone others look to for ideas, insight, and leadership.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to be themselves and stay true to who they are. In a male-dominated field like construction, it can be tempting to change yourself to fit in or to match what you think a leader is supposed to look or act likey. But authenticity is a strength. Being confident in who you are, trusting your own voice, and bringing your unique perspective to the table builds trust, earns respect, and ultimately drives success.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I see in our industry is recruiting, developing, and retaining the next generation of talent. We need to evolve with their needs and expectations, including greater flexibility and different ways of working, while still creating opportunities for meaningful mentorship and hands-on learning. At the same time, we have a responsibility to help young professionals understand the importance of accountability, commitment, communication, and following through. The challenge is finding the right balance: meeting younger generations where they are while also giving them the guidance, expectations, and mentorship they need to grow into strong professionals and future leaders.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and honesty are the values that matter most to me, both professionally and personally. I believe in doing the right thing even when it isn’t the easiest choice, being straightforward and transparent, and following through on what I say I will do. Trust is built over time through consistency, accountability, and treating people with respect. Whether I’m working with a client, leading a team, or navigating my personal life, I want people to know that they can trust my word, rely on me, and know that my intentions are genuine.
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