Twenty-four years ago, Mary Choquette, a 1999 Bryant graduate, was the on-site project accountant for Gilbane Building Company, hired to build the Bryant University George E. Bello Center for Information and Technology.
Now, the same can be said about Gilbane’s Senior Project Accountant Laura Fountain, a 2018 Bryant graduate, who is currently working on the construction of Bryant University’s New Field House in Smithfield, Rhode Island, and recently had her first beam signing on the Bryant campus. During Laura’s interview with Gilbane, they connected over their similar backgrounds and desire to have an accounting career in the construction industry that would be exciting and rewarding.
As we celebrate Women in Construction Week at Gilbane, these fellow Bulldogs share their personal and professional experiences, shedding light on the significant role of recognition in team morale and productivity in the following Q&A.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in the construction industry?
Mary: As a child, I moved 16 times before the age of 16. My mother, my hero, renovated each apartment independently, often with me as her little apprentice. At the age of 6, I completed my first wallpaper project.
My mom could transform an apartment on the brink of being condemned into a beautiful Victorian haven, one we were always proud to call home. There was always a pronounced sense of pride when these renovation projects were completed. She instilled an unmatched work ethic in us by working alongside us and showing us the how and why. While not the sole reason for my career in construction, my mom’s influence has been a significant inspiration.
Laura: Growing up, my papa owned an electrical company, and my dad worked with him for a while. My first glimpse of construction was tagging with my mom to bring them lunch at job sites. I was fascinated by the bare bones of buildings and houses being built. Watching something go from nothing to something amazing was so exciting!
After graduating, I worked in public accounting for three years. While it was a great learning experience, I craved something more hands-on and meaningful. I’d heard great things about Gilbane, so I decided to leap into construction management. What also stood out to me was Gilbane’s culture. After my interview, I was taken on a quick tour of the office, and I got to meet some of the other accountants and employees. Hearing how long many of them had been with the company was such a green flag. It showed me that Gilbane was a place where people wanted to stay.
Q: What is unique about the Bryant project and why do you enjoy working on this project?
Mary: I never imagined my first “project accountant” role would be back on the campus of my old stomping grounds. In my senior year at Bryant, I went to more than 25 interviews before met with Gilbane. In a 2001 issue of a Bryant Exchange alumni newsletter, Mary says, “From the first day I worked for Gilbane, I was treated as an equal. I’m proud to be part of the team that is helping Bryant to grow.”
Laura: The Bryant Fieldhouse project is incredibly special because it feels like a full-circle moment. As a Bryant University alum, I never imagined I’d have the chance to come back and contribute to something that would have a lasting impact on the campus and its community. It’s exciting to see the campus grow, and it’s unique to combine my professional skills with my connection to Bryant.
Q: Do you have an accomplishment you are most proud of in your career?
Mary: I’m proud of many accomplishments, all centered around a common theme: the impact of teamwork. I played softball all four years at Bryant, and served as a co-captain my senior year, all to prepare me for the coaching I am now able to do, which I firmly believe is crucial at all levels. Witnessing those I’ve trained or mentored flourish in their careers is incredibly rewarding.
One recent example is Laura Fountain, a protégé in the making. When we interviewed Laura, I knew she had a drive to succeed. She has excelled as the Senior Project Accountant on our Bryant Fieldhouse project, a testament to the power of teamwork and effective mentorship.
My professional achievement barometer will always encompass the strength and success of the team I am a part of. I consider myself beyond privileged to have been professionally mentored by many legacy greats throughout my career.
Laura: One of my proudest accomplishments is how much I’ve grown beyond the accounting side of my role since stepping into construction management. Initially, I thought my job would revolve around budgets and spreadsheets, but it’s been so much more!
I’ve learned about the construction process, interacted with trades, and seen projects come to life from the ground up. Seeing progress on-site is rewarding, knowing I’m part of a team building something tangible.
Q: What advice would you give the next generation of women builders in the industry?
Mary: My advice to the next generation of women builders is to not think of yourself as a “woman” builder. Show an impeccable work ethic and strive to be the best builder.
Motherhood will not deter your career advancement. Yes, you may miss some memorable moments, like your child’s first home run, but never regret choosing work over a kid commitment. Your children are great imitators and will show you their resilience and dedication when they achieve their successes, like maintaining a 4.0 GPA while juggling a job and a collegiate Divison 1 softball commitment.
Laura: You belong here! The challenges you face are opportunities to learn and grow. I’ve learned much by staying curious, asking questions, and jumping into new opportunities. Seeing women like Mary in leadership roles has been a huge inspiration. It shows that women can grow, lead, and make a significant impact in this industry.
Comments
Pam House
So proud of both of you!
Congratulations and keep up the good work.👏👏👏