Her Story
About Gabrielle
Gabrielle Saylor is a Senior Project Manager specializing in mission-critical data center construction, with more than 25 years of experience in electrical contracting, construction management, and complex infrastructure projects. Throughout her career, she has built expertise in medium-voltage power distribution, commissioning, quality assurance, and advanced cooling systems, including liquid-to-chip and liquid-to-liquid design. Her diverse background allows her to lead large-scale projects with a comprehensive understanding of both technical execution and strategic project management.
Gabrielle's career reflects a unique blend of leadership, technical expertise, and hands-on field experience. After beginning her professional journey in real estate, asset management, and construction project management, she became an Inside Journeyman Wireman through IBEW Local 613, earning specialized certifications in fiber optics, PLC motor controls, fire alarm systems, and electric vehicle infrastructure. She has served in project management and leadership roles with nationally recognized firms, overseeing mission-critical data center projects, electrical quality assurance, commissioning, and complex construction programs. A graduate of Boston University with a master's degree in Construction Project Management from New York University, she also holds PMP and BICSI credentials and was recognized as Apprentice of the Year during her time in the skilled trades.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Gabrielle is a passionate advocate for expanding opportunities for women in construction and the skilled trades. She frequently mentors emerging professionals, speaks to apprentices and industry groups, and promotes workforce development through education and community engagement. Guided by the belief that leadership is built through resilience, continuous learning, and teamwork, Gabrielle is committed to delivering excellence on every project while helping shape the next generation of construction and project management leaders.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Gabrielle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think number one, like I said, I don't take most things very seriously. And because of that I really think that anytime you're in a valley, you have to know that the mountain is coming, right? So the peak is coming. So, I kind of reframe. I think that's really the secret to my success, is that reframing failure. Because you're going to fail. Bad things are going to happen to you. Life is going to happen to you. All kinds of things are going to happen, but I have to really believe that that valley is just the start of the peak, right? Like, you're just at the bottom of the peak, you just gotta get up there. And when you get up there, you'll forget all about the other stuff. So, I would think that's really it. And then, I will say, though, even though I make it look very easy, that I work very, very, very hard.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received was to observe others, learn from their experiences, and always stay true to who I am. That guidance taught me that authenticity, combined with a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn, creates opportunities for growth. By consistently demonstrating my dedication and adding value, I've earned the trust and support of mentors who have invested in my professional development.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To operate from a place of yes. Because you can always say no if you don't like it, but it's hard to get an opportunity again. Even if you don't think that you know how to do it 100% or anything like that, just try it. It's gonna be a learning curve, no matter what. And either your fly or your sink, but you'll never know which one you're going to do if you never try. And then my number two piece of advice, if you are a woman in any male-dominated field, is to attach yourself and only hang around the best performers in that field. Because most of the time, the highest performers don't really care about anything but high performance.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is bringing diverse perspectives to an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated. I've learned that strong leadership isn't defined by gender—it's built on expertise, collaboration, and earning the trust of your team. I see my role as an opportunity to lead by example, continually raise the standard of excellence, and demonstrate the value that different perspectives bring to achieving shared success.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I like things to be challenging. I like to be challenged as much as possible. And then also, I know I'm gonna give my all to something, and so I do want people to recognize that I am adding a lot of value to a situation. So, I'd like to be recognized for my addition to a team, as well. And I do like cohesiveness. I like team cohesiveness. Home life: I really like peace. I'm pretty jokey, so I do like an element of, like, don't take any of this too serious, because none of it is serious. I am a mom, so my son is just entering into teenage years. I have a really tight-knit family.
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