Her Story
About Folashade
I began my career in construction in 2009 as an intern at Crown Hall Construction during my studies in Nigeria, where every holiday we would do field experience and internships. After earning my bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying in 2008, I built over 20 years of experience in the construction field. I spent 10 years with the New York City Department of Design and Construction, where I started as a Senior Estimator for 7 years, then moved into a Project Manager role for 2 years before being promoted to Deputy Director. In December 2025, I began my current role as Director of Pre-Design Infrastructure Unit at MTA Construction and Development in New York State. In this position, I manage infrastructure for wayside power, overseeing the installation of substations to ensure power delivery to all the trains. My role is to make sure that projects are constructed safely, on time, and on budget. I hold certifications as a Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Cost Professional (CCP), which required extensive studying and writing a technical paper to qualify for the exam. I've also completed training in OSHA, LEED sustainability, and other specialized areas.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Folashade
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God first and foremost. Everywhere I've worked, every unit, every department, they gave me the opportunity. If I didn't have that opportunity, I can't be where I am today. So I give glory to God for helping me get to this career and helping with the way I'm able to introduce myself to that.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
When I was working as a Senior Estimator at the New York City Department of Design and Construction, I interviewed for a role as a Senior Developer. When I got the offer, the salary was not what I expected, but the director at that time asked me that it's better for me to take the role even though the salary wasn't what I expected, because there would be a lot of opportunities for growth. Thank God I listened to him, because once I stepped into the Senior Estimator and Manager role, I was exposed to so many projects and I learned a lot. I spent 7 years in the Senior Estimator role, and then as a Project Manager I spent only 2 years before I got promoted into Deputy Director. So that advice really helped me. I went from Senior Estimator to Director within the space of 3-4 years, whereas when I was a Senior Estimator, I spent 7 years. So that was the best advice I've received.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say, don't be afraid. Try to have an open mind and don't limit yourself.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
You have to be disciplined. You have to pay great attention to detail. I really want to appreciate my mentors in our role, because I learned a lot to pay detailed attention to everything. Attention to detail goes a long way. Don't be afraid to do what you're supposed to do. Be disciplined in whatever you're doing, because your work says a lot about you. So if you do your work in an excellent way, it says a lot about how professional you are.
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