Crystal Soper, Assistant Project Manager on Influential Women

Influential Woman · Construction

Crystal Soper

Excavation

Assistant Project Manager, U.S. Engineering

West Monroe, LA

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree High School Diploma Cert Silica Training Cert Lift Training Cert OSHA 30 Cert Rigging and signaling. Cert Excavation Cert Confined spaces Cert First aid

Her Story

About Crystal

.I began my construction career seven years ago in Quality Control with no prior industry experience. Through hard work, continuous learning, and a commitment to excellence, I progressed to Senior Field Engineer, Assistant Superintendent, and now Assistant Project Manager.

My strengths are attention to detail, quality execution, and building strong relationships with customers, trade partners, and project teams. I still rely heavily on my field experience, working closely with teams to ensure work is completed safely, correctly, and to the highest standards.

As a woman in construction, I believe leadership is earned through consistency, integrity, and action. I lead by example, stay connected to the field, and focus on building trust, supporting my teams, and delivering successful projects safely and efficiently.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Crystal

01What do you attribute your success to?

"I attribute much of my success to the people who have invested in me along the way. My mentor, Mark Story, who has had a tremendous impact on the construction industry and now owns his own company, played a significant role in my development. He challenged me, pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and helped shape the leader I am today.

I have also been fortunate to learn from great coaches and leaders like Mike DeBose and Tim Butler. Their guidance and advice have been instrumental in how I approach my work, lead teams, and build strong relationships with trade partners and customers.

Most importantly, my family has been my foundation. My husband, who is also in the construction industry, along with my sons, daughter, and granddaughters, have been my biggest supporters and my rock throughout this journey. Their encouragement has motivated me to keep growing, take on new challenges, and continue pursuing excellence every day."

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best career advice I've ever received came from my mentor, Mark Story. He told me, 'Show up for people the way you want them to show up for you.' That simple piece of advice has guided me throughout my career. It has shaped how I build relationships, lead teams, and work with trade partners. I believe respect is earned through consistency, trust, and follow-through, and that mindset has been instrumental in helping me succeed and build strong partnerships in a traditionally male-dominated industry."

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Be an advocate for yourself, set goals crush them and say team whats next. Don't be afraid to use your voice if you are uneasy about something everyone has the right to stop work. See something say something. Believe in yourself.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

The biggest challenge is overcoming stereotypes. The biggest opportunity is helping lead the future of construction through diverse perspectives and strong leadership.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

My values are integrity, accountability, respect, trust, and service to others. I believe in working hard, building strong relationships, and leading by example while never losing sight of what matters most—people and family."

Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.