A powerful narrative about overcoming self-doubt and building a successful career in construction. This piece emphasizes the importance of confidence, continuous learning, and mentorship while inspiring women to forge their own paths in male-dominated industries.
Her Story
About Liberty
Liberty Zendejas, MBA, serves as Corporate Secretary and Office Manager at FedVet Construction, a federal general contractor specializing in construction projects supporting military installations, veterans, and federal agencies. Based in Temecula, California, Liberty plays an integral role in the company's corporate administration, financial oversight, operational management, and organizational compliance. Her responsibilities support FedVet's diverse portfolio of federal construction projects, including Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities, military cemeteries, and military installations.
With more than 20 years of experience in accounting, financial management, and business administration, Liberty brings extensive knowledge in corporate operations, organizational leadership, and process improvement. Recognized for her integrity, attention to detail, and ability to navigate complex responsibilities, she is committed to strengthening internal processes, promoting accountability, and supporting the company's continued growth and operational excellence.
Liberty joined FedVet Construction in August 2021 as Accounting Manager before advancing to Office Manager in August 2023 and assuming responsibilities as Corporate Secretary. Throughout her tenure, she has played an important role in supporting financial operations, improving administrative processes, and strengthening internal procedures. Her progressive career reflects a strong foundation in financial leadership, corporate governance, and business operations.
Guided by the values of integrity, accountability, compassion, and service, Liberty is dedicated to empowering colleagues, strengthening organizational effectiveness, and contributing to FedVet Construction's long-term success. Her leadership reflects a commitment not only to professional excellence but also to building meaningful relationships and making a lasting difference in the communities FedVet serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Liberty
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, dedication, self-motivation, and a strong commitment to personal and professional growth. I believe in leading with integrity, embracing new challenges, and continuously seeking opportunities to learn and improve. Through honesty, accountability, and a positive attitude, I strive to inspire those around me, build meaningful relationships, and make a lasting difference every day.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is that the more you know, the more you grow, and true success comes from perseverance and never giving up. Throughout my career, I have learned the importance of believing in myself, standing confidently in my abilities, and recognizing the value I bring to the table. I believe that growth comes from being a good listener, remaining open to new perspectives, and continuously seeking knowledge. Most importantly, I strive to lead by example, share my experiences, and mentor others to help them recognize their own potential and achieve success.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the construction industry is to build your own bridge rather than wait for someone else to create a path for you. Embrace what makes you unique, have confidence in your abilities, and never be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Seek opportunities, ask questions, and remain open to learning from those around you. Don't allow challenges or intimidation to discourage you from pursuing your goals. Take initiative, find your passion, and recognize the value you bring to the industry. Most importantly, believe in yourself, stand firm in your worth, and remember that success is not about following someone else's path, but having the courage to create your own.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of my primary goals is to continue contributing to the growth and long-term success of FedVet Construction by leveraging my extensive experience in business administration, financial management, federal contracting, and corporate governance. I am committed to strengthening organizational processes and supporting strategic initiatives that position the company for continued growth. As FedVet evolves, I see opportunities to expand my leadership, contribute to meaningful business decisions, and help build a strong foundation for the company's future. My focus is not only on supporting the organization's success today but also on helping shape its long-term vision through accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, honesty, and kindness are the core values that guide me both personally and professionally. I believe in leading by example, giving my best in everything I do, and creating a positive environment where others feel valued, supported, and encouraged to succeed. I recognize that growth often requires embracing change, adapting to new challenges, and having the courage to pivot when necessary. Rather than allowing setbacks to define me, I choose to view them as opportunities to learn, grow, and become stronger. Above all, I strive to approach every situation with resilience, an open mind, and a positive attitude, while making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around me.
Her Content Hub
Articles by Liberty
Build Your Own Bridge: Leadership, Confidence, and Creating Opportunities in Construction
Building Your Own Bridge: Leadership, Growth, and Success in Construction
Success is not always about following a path that someone else has created. Sometimes, it requires having the courage to build your own bridge, embrace challenges, and recognize the value you bring to the table.
Throughout my more than 20 years in accounting, administration, and business operations, I have learned that professional growth requires more than experience. It takes determination, adaptability, integrity, and the willingness to continuously learn. Every challenge presents an opportunity to become stronger, develop new skills, and gain a greater understanding of what it means to lead.
Confidence Is Built Through Experience
One of the most valuable lessons I have learned throughout my career is to never allow intimidation or self-doubt to determine my potential. It is important to stand confidently in your abilities, recognize your accomplishments, and understand that your perspective and experience have value.
Working in the construction industry has reinforced my belief that leadership is not defined solely by a title. It is demonstrated through accountability, consistency, sound decision-making, and the ability to support others while navigating complex responsibilities.
In my role at FedVet Construction, I have had the opportunity to apply my background in financial management, corporate administration, and organizational leadership to support the company's operations and continued growth. These experiences have strengthened my understanding of how effective leadership, communication, and collaboration contribute to organizational success.
The More You Know, the More You Grow
I have always believed that knowledge creates opportunity. Regardless of how many years of experience we have, there is always something new to learn.
Being willing to ask questions, listen to others, and embrace unfamiliar responsibilities is essential to professional development. Growth often happens when we step outside our comfort zones and challenge ourselves to accomplish something we once thought was beyond our abilities.
I encourage women entering the construction industry to remain curious, take initiative, and never stop investing in themselves. Your willingness to learn can open doors that you may not have initially imagined.
Leadership Is About Lifting Others
To me, successful leadership is not measured only by personal accomplishments but also by the positive impact we have on those around us.
Integrity, honesty, kindness, and accountability are values that guide my approach to both professional and personal relationships. I believe in creating an environment where people feel respected, supported, and encouraged to grow.
Mentorship is especially important. Sharing knowledge, offering guidance, and helping others recognize their strengths can make a meaningful difference in someone's professional journey. A great leader does not simply create opportunities for themselves; they help create opportunities for others.
Embracing Change and Turning Challenges Into Opportunities
Change is inevitable in any industry, particularly in construction, where priorities, deadlines, and business demands are constantly evolving.
I have learned that adaptability is one of the most important qualities a professional can develop. Not every situation will go as planned, and sometimes the best decision is to change direction, reassess priorities, and approach a challenge from a different perspective.
Rather than allowing setbacks to define our success, we should use those experiences to strengthen our judgment, improve our processes, and prepare ourselves for future opportunities.
My Advice to Women in Construction: Build Your Own Bridge
For women beginning their careers in construction, my advice is simple: Believe in yourself and never underestimate what you are capable of achieving.
Do not wait for someone else to recognize your potential or create opportunities for you. Take initiative, speak up, ask questions, and pursue the areas that inspire you.
Embrace what makes you unique. Your experiences, ideas, and perspectives are valuable, and they deserve to be heard.
Most importantly, remember that success does not require following someone else's journey. It requires having the confidence to create your own.
Looking Ahead
As I continue my professional journey with FedVet Construction, my focus remains on contributing to the company's long-term success, strengthening organizational operations, and supporting the people who make that success possible.
I believe that leadership is a continuous journey of learning, growing, adapting, and making a positive difference.
If there is one message I hope to leave with other women pursuing careers in construction, it is this:
Never allow fear, intimidation, or uncertainty to limit your potential. Believe in your abilities, embrace every opportunity to grow, and have the courage to build your own bridge.
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