Rebecca Carpaneto

I attribute my success to building genuine relationships, staying adaptable, and leading with consistency and integrity. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on understanding both people and business needs, which has allowed me to connect the right talent with the right opportunities while building trust along the way. I’ve also learned the importance of being creative and thinking outside the box when it comes to finding talent, especially in an industry facing ongoing workforce shortages and increasing competition for skilled professionals. Some of the best hiring successes come from being proactive, building strong networks, and recognizing potential in people that others may overlook. I also believe continuous learning is extremely important, especially in industries that are constantly evolving. Technology, recruiting strategies, and workforce trends are always changing, and it’s important to stay informed and adaptable.

One of the most valuable pieces of career advice I’ve received came from a mentor who pointed out that I have a unique skill and encouraged me to really recognize my professional worth and the strategic value that talent acquisition professionals bring to an organization and how it is a critical business function that directly influences an organization’s growth, culture, and long-term success.

I would tell young women entering the industry that Talent Acquisition is not always an easy career path, and it comes with a great deal of pressure, especially with the ongoing talent shortages and fast-paced demands within the construction and engineering industries. However, I also believe those challenges are what makes the work so rewarding and impactful. I would also encourage them to understand that recruiting goes far beyond simply filling positions. It is about helping companies build strong teams for the future while also helping individuals find meaningful careers where they can grow and be successful. For those who enjoy relationship building, problem-solving, and the excitement of “the hunt” when searching for the right talent, talent acquisition can be an incredibly fulfilling career. Every search is different, and there is a real sense of accomplishment in identifying the right person for the job. It's also a fast-paced and constantly evolving profession that challenges you to stay adaptable, think creatively, and continuously learn.

I would also share with them that successful recruiting is truly a partnership between talent acquisition and hiring managers. The best hiring outcomes happen when there is collaboration, communication, and a shared commitment to finding the right people. I strongly believe that recruiting is everyone’s responsibility within an organization because every employee contributes to the company’s culture, reputation, and ability to attract great talent. Building strong teams takes a collective effort.

One of the biggest challenges in our industry right now is the shortage of skilled talent. The construction industry is growing rapidly, but there are not enough experienced professionals entering the workforce to keep up with demand. At the same time, I believe this also creates one of the greatest opportunities. Companies are becoming more focused on investing in their people, building stronger workplace cultures, and creating long-term career paths to attract and retain talent. There is also a growing opportunity for women and younger professionals to step into leadership roles and make a meaningful impact in an industry that continues to evolve. Technology is another major opportunity. We are seeing advancements in AI, workforce analytics, and recruiting technology that are helping companies become more strategic and efficient in how they hire and develop teams. For me personally, it’s an exciting time to be in talent acquisition because the work goes far beyond simply filling positions.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, respect, loyalty, and hard work. I also believe it is important to enjoy what you do, appreciate the people around you, and maintain a positive attitude along the way. While I take my work seriously, I also believe it is important to enjoy the journey, celebrate accomplishments, and have FUN!