Influential Woman · Construction
Jacquelyn McKay
Chief Estimator, Private Company
Fate, TX 75189
Her Story
About Jacquelyn
Jackie McKay is the Chief Estimator at a woman-owned construction company specializing in the development of parks and playgrounds that serve schools, neighborhoods, libraries, and broader community spaces. In her role, she leads the preparation of detailed cost estimates and proposals, guiding projects through the critical front-end phase of securing work. She collaborates closely with internal teams across project management, sales, administration, pricing, and accounts payable, ensuring a seamless transition from initial concept and design support through to execution and delivery.
Jackie brings a lifelong foundation in construction, having been introduced to the industry at a young age through her father’s masonry business. She later earned her bachelor’s degree in engineering, with a focus on electrical and mechanical studies, from the University of Mary Hardin–Baylor (UMHB). Following graduation, she built her professional career in construction and has been with her current organization for nearly five years. During her early tenure, she experienced rapid growth, receiving multiple promotions within her first two years and ultimately stepping into a leadership role where she established and expanded the estimating department.
In addition to her technical expertise, Jackie is a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI), bringing a strong commitment to safety, compliance, and national playground standards. She takes pride in helping create environments where children and communities can safely gather, play, and grow. Her leadership approach is grounded in integrity, collaboration, and clear communication, and she values being part of a mission-driven, woman-led organization where she contributes to meaningful spaces that positively impact communities.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jacquelyn
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the strong foundation of support I’ve had from my family throughout my life, which has given me the confidence to navigate challenges and stay grounded during difficult times. Their example of resilience, consistency, and support for one another has shaped my values and work ethic, and I am deeply grateful for that influence. I also credit my own drive to continuously improve and challenge myself, always asking how I can do better and grow both personally and professionally, which has been key in helping me progress in my career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my father: you never know what you can’t do until you try, and you never know what you can’t have until you ask. That mindset has stayed with me throughout my career and continues to push me to step outside my comfort zone, pursue new opportunities, and continuously challenge myself. It has taught me the importance of being proactive, confident, and willing to take initiative in order to grow both personally and professionally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to not allow others’ doubts or assumptions to become your own. There may be times when you are underestimated or questioned, but it’s important to stay confident in your abilities and trust what you are capable of. Growth comes from stepping forward, taking on challenges, and learning through experience, and you will discover your strengths by simply showing up, doing your best, and refusing to limit yourself based on other people’s opinions.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is the variability in public funding, particularly since I work in parks and playgrounds and frequently collaborate with school districts and public agencies. Shifts in government funding and priorities can significantly impact project timelines, availability, and scope, which ultimately affects the flow of work for cities and schools. These changes are often outside of anyone’s control, yet they have a direct, ripple effect on how communities are able to plan, prioritize, and move forward with important recreational projects.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are kindness, integrity, and clear communication. I believe in the idea that the energy you put into the world is what you receive in return, and I try to lead with kindness, generosity, and understanding in every interaction. I also place a strong emphasis on honest, respectful communication, as many challenges can be resolved through simply taking the time to listen and connect with others. Ultimately, I strive to approach both life and work with empathy, patience, and a commitment to treating people with respect.
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