Her Story
About Rachel
Rachel Torgerson has spent over a decade in the construction and infrastructure development sector, specializing in public sector projects for municipalities and school districts. After earning her degree in advertising and journalism from the University of Oregon, she began her career in marketing at a mechanical contracting firm before advancing to her current role in design-build infrastructure solutions. Torgerson is known for her drive and competitive spirit, approaching projects with strategic creativity to deliver holistic solutions that go beyond traditional methods, such as addressing ADA needs, aging facilities, and revenue opportunities from client assets. She values honesty and transparency in all partnerships and has successfully balanced high performance in her demanding career with motherhood.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Rachel
01What do you attribute your success to?
Drive and competitiveness have been key. I'm never fully satisfied and always chasing to be the best. I'm a team player but strive every day to be strategic and creative, thinking outside the box to find holes and fill them. I work hard and do things differently than the traditional methods in my industry. Being thrown in without training forced me to figure it out on my own, which has really helped.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A quick no is almost as beneficial as a win. Understanding that there's no opportunity there quickly and not wasting your time on something that's never going to go anywhere is just as beneficial as receiving a yes.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
We're held to the highest standards and one mistake can follow you. It's of the utmost importance to look in the mirror and understand how you're perceived and how you're putting yourself out there. Hold yourself to high standards and understand how others will perceive your actions. It's tougher on women, especially in construction surrounded by males, so mentoring and self-awareness are key.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The market has limited easy-to-find funding. Cities in California are seeing people move out, school districts have lower attendance post-COVID, leading to conservative decision-making and hesitancy on big projects. The challenge is navigating this politically strained environment, but the opportunity is to help clients utilize assets for ROI, address aging infrastructure, support ADA, and create revenue in non-traditional ways.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty and transparency are huge in both work and personal life. I always start meetings by saying I'm going to be transparent, honest, and open, and hope to receive that back in partnerships.
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