Imagine stepping out of your office to feel the warm tropical breeze on your face, knowing you’ve just wrapped up work on a cutting-edge project that’s shaping the future. This isn’t a daydream – it’s a reality for Gilbane team members like Magda J Flores Umanzor and Gabrielle “Gabby” Yates.
Their journey with Gilbane is a global adventure spanning continents and cultures. Magda’s story began in 2018 in our Providence office. Fast-forward, and she found herself in Nava, Mexico, breathing life into a monumental expansion of the largest beer production facility in the world.
Meanwhile, Gabby’s tale started in 2021 in Chicago. Before she knew it, she too was bound for Mexico, this time to Obregon, joining forces with Magda on the Constellation Brands beer production facilities’ mission.
Unique Professional and Personal Growth Opportunity
The story doesn’t end there. When Magda and Gabby heard about Gilbane’s new opportunities on the Pacific island of Guam, they jumped at the chance to be part of something bigger. Guam’s 4,000-acre Camp Blaz is the first new U.S. Marine base since 1952 and will serve as a strategic hub in the Indo-Pacific region, a top priority for the U.S. Department of Defense. Today, Magda and Gabby are not just Project Engineers; they are accelerating their careers by working in tight-knit teams that allow them to engage in all aspects of the project, both in the office and the field, supporting Gilbane’s over $250 million of active work for the U.S. Navy at Camp Blaz.
Working in Guam is more than just a job; it’s a unique opportunity for professional and personal growth. Here, you contribute to projects vital to national security while gaining valuable experience in lump-sum project delivery and navigating a diverse, multicultural trade base. Guam’s unique environment shapes the design and materials of the structures there, which must withstand seismic events, frequent typhoons, and corrosion. Additionally, tackling the challenges of procuring materials and labor on the island drives our teams to become more resourceful, resilient, and highly experienced construction professionals—skills that will benefit them throughout their careers.
With extensive international experience, Gilbane has built a 20-year legacy across more than 15 countries. Our Gilbane teams in Guam are incredibly diverse, with members from the U.S. mainland, Philippines, Türkiye, India, and the local Chamorro community. You’ll work alongside seasoned team members who bring both global and local industry knowledge, extensive connections, and a powerful sense of camaraderie and family.
Experience Cultural Immersion
Beyond work, you’ll be part of a vibrant community rich in Chamorro, Filipino, Asian, Pacific Islander, and American cultures. Enjoy your evenings on pristine beaches and weekends exploring coral reefs or hiking tropical forests. This blend of professional growth and cultural immersion makes Guam an exceptional place to advance your career with Gilbane and plan your next adventure.
For an insider’s perspective on the real experience and what it takes to thrive in Guam’s dynamic environment, we turned to Nick Nadeau, one of Gilbane’s dedicated Project Managers on the island. With a wealth of experience and a passion for overcoming challenges, Nick has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of construction in this unique location. His leadership and expertise have been pivotal in addressing the demanding technical requirements of our clients while adapting to the geographic obstacles that come with working in one of the most remote places on earth. Reflecting on his journey, Nick shares, “Living and working in Guam has been amazing and represents an ongoing journey that has been one of the most challenging I’ve had to face in my professional and personal life. The island culture represents easy living, but nothing is simple about our work here – we have unique clients with demanding technical requirements while facing geographic obstacles that make you re-imagine what it takes to construct a project in one of the most remote locations on earth.”
“ If you’re someone who wants to undertake a once-in-a-lifetime journey, broaden your industry experience, and push your limits, I’d encourage you to consider Guam as a place to live and work., advance, and move forward.”
Nick Nadeau, Project Manager
So, are you ready to turn the page on the ordinary and write your extraordinary Gilbane story? Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a seasoned professional looking for a change of scenery, Gilbane is your ticket to a career that spans the globe.
Don’t just build buildings. Build a life. Build a future. Build with Gilbane. Interested in an overseas career with Gilbane? Connect with us today!
