Melissa Goddard, CFE, CCA, CCP, CRIS, CICA, CCTIP
Melissa Goddard, CFE, CCA, CCP, CRIS, CICA, CCTIP, is a seasoned expert in construction auditing, fraud examination, and risk management with over 30 years of experience in the industry. As the Owner and Principal of FACT Financial Investigations, Melissa provides specialized services in fraud risk assessments, construction audits, insurance reviews, and training for owners of capital projects. Known for her precision and integrity, she has built a reputation for uncovering critical discrepancies and mitigating financial risks in large-scale construction projects, including multi-million-dollar public and private developments.
Melissa began her career at just 15 years old, quickly establishing herself in a traditionally male-dominated field. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a unique combination of technical expertise, assertiveness, and ethical leadership, enabling her to navigate complex projects and high-stakes environments with confidence. Her notable achievements include identifying a critical insurance calculation error on a $900 million project, resulting in $3 million in savings for a governmental client—an accomplishment that exemplifies both her meticulous approach and the tangible impact of her work.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Melissa is dedicated to mentorship, advocacy, and continued professional growth. She holds multiple industry certifications, including Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Construction Auditor, Construction Control Professional, and Certified Construction Technology & Innovation Professional, reflecting her commitment to excellence and innovation. Melissa’s success is rooted in her grit, integrity, and unwavering dedication to ethical practices, which guide her every decision as she continues to inspire and lead in the construction and financial investigation sectors.
• Certified Fraud Examiner
• Certified Construction Auditor
• Construction Control Professional
• Construction Risk & Insurance Specialist
• Certified Internal Controls Auditor
• Certified Construction Technology & Innovation Professional
• Advisors & Consultants
• Utica University – Master’s, Fraud Management
• Parkrose High School – High School/Business
• DJC 2025 Women of Vision Circle of Excellence
• Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)
• The Institute of Construction Advisors & Consultants
• National Association of Construction Auditors
• The Institute of Internal Auditors
• Mentorship and training for owners of capital projects
• Fraud risk education and compliance advocacy in the construction industry
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to grit, integrity, and assertiveness. From an early age, I learned the importance of being direct, prepared, and confident, especially in a male-dominated industry. My refusal to tolerate dishonesty and commitment to ethical standards have been essential in establishing credibility and achieving measurable impact in construction audits, fraud examinations, and risk management.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my husband, who encouraged me to start my own company and fully step into leadership. His support, combined with years of navigating complex and often adversarial environments, has given me the confidence and perspective to take risks, trust my judgment, and lead with integrity.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women to never allow intimidation to dictate their career path. Be confident in your knowledge, unapologetic about your expertise, and recognize that toughness and professionalism can coexist. Building credibility requires preparation, persistence, and the courage to assert yourself without compromising your principles.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the construction industry is combating dishonesty and entrenched power dynamics. At the same time, I see tremendous opportunity in promoting transparency, ethics, and education. By mentoring the next generation of women leaders and elevating standards, we can shape a more accountable and equitable industry.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty, accountability, strength, and fairness are central to how I approach both work and life. Standing firm in my principles—especially when challenged—is non-negotiable. Outside of work, I value time with my family, including my grandchildren, enjoy spending time with my Cane Corso dogs, attending stock car races with my husband, and managing a gold mine in Montana. These pursuits keep me grounded and remind me of what truly matters.
Locations
FACT Financial Investigations
Bend, OR 97001