Her Story
About Sarah
Sarah Wilson is a Construction Manager with the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC), bringing approximately 17 years of experience in heavy commercial construction, civil engineering, and infrastructure development. She began her career in engineering design after graduating during the economic recession before transitioning into construction, where she discovered her passion for leading field operations and delivering complex infrastructure projects.
Throughout her career, Sarah has managed projects involving roadway engineering, bridges, tunnels, housing developments, and naval facilities. She is recognized for her hands-on leadership style, coordinating subcontractors, overseeing field operations, and ensuring successful project delivery while fostering collaboration among multidisciplinary teams.
Beyond project execution, Sarah is committed to mentoring the next generation of engineers and construction professionals. She actively supports young female engineers entering the industry and participates in community initiatives benefiting homeless veterans through housing support and charitable donations. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes perseverance, mentorship, community service, and earning respect through hard work and technical expertise.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sarah
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible mentors who guided me throughout my career, especially one mentor who met with me regularly from the very beginning and consistently helped point me in the right direction. Their guidance shaped both my professional growth and confidence. I also credit my father, whose unwavering support inspired me as the first female engineer in my family. Combined with my passion for construction and continuous learning, these influences have been the foundation of my success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is simple: don't give up—just keep swimming. Perseverance is essential, especially as a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Success comes from continuing to move forward, embracing challenges, and remaining committed even when the path is difficult.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to never give up and to keep moving forward, regardless of the obstacles you encounter. Seek out mentors who will support your growth, embrace hands-on learning opportunities, and believe in your abilities. I enjoy mentoring young female engineers because I want to help create opportunities for them, support their development, and ensure they feel encouraged as they build successful careers in construction and engineering.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in construction is that women often have to work twice as hard to earn the same recognition and respect as their peers. However, once you demonstrate your knowledge, leadership, and technical expertise, that respect grows significantly. At the same time, I see tremendous opportunity as more women pursue engineering and construction careers. The increasing representation of women in the profession is helping create a stronger, more diverse industry with greater opportunities for future generations.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In my professional life, I value perseverance, hands-on leadership, mentorship, respect, teamwork, and leading by example. I believe in supporting colleagues, developing future professionals, and earning trust through hard work and integrity.
In my personal life, I value giving back to my community, supporting veterans, helping those in need, and using my skills to make a positive impact. I believe community service, generosity, and mentoring others are just as important as professional success.
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