2023 Women in Construction: Jillian Coffey, Taylor the Builders

In the past year, what project or accomplishment are you most proud of? I recently completed a women’s rehabilitation facility in Newark, NY with Catholic Charities Family and Community Service and DASNY. The project was four additions and to renovate the existing facility. The facility was occupied with clients and staff during construction. And with every phase of the project the clients and staff had to move into a different part of the facility. The project was over a two-year period and most of the renovation work was completed during the COVID pandemic. It defiantly had many challenges with the building being occupied and then with the pandemic meeting all the requirements for both. 

What was a pivotal point in your career? Leaving my position with a heavy highway company as a field engineer in 2005 and moving back to the Rochester area and obtained a position at TAYLOR The Builders. My position with Taylor has developed me into a self-confident woman in the construction industry. I have several roles and responsibilities which can range from hard bid estimating to development of a design-build project. I have been taught over the years different aspects of the construction industry which is very valuable.

Which professional associations or organizations would you recommend to women who are starting out in the A/E/C industry? Society of Women Engineers is an excellent association for women who are just starting out. They have a career center on their website and helps connect women who are seeking positions in engineering and construction with the employers that have the positions open. 

How can A/E/C companies recruit more women? I believe it is imperative to start right at the high school level. Have an education day or hands on day at local schools or even hold a recruit day at a neutral location for several construction companies, engineering and architectural firms can participate in. It would let women know the various departments of engineering, gain knowledge of some of the trade work or other positions that can be obtained with in A/E/C companies!

What is your favorite building in New York? Growing up in the Finger Lakes Region one of my favorite buildings is the historic Belhurst Castle in Geneva, NY. Located on Seneca Lake it has breath taking views from the land and the water. The architectural exterior and interior features are just spectacular. The construction of the original castle started in 1885 and took 4 years to construct. Ironically right before I started working with TAYLOR The Builders, the castle had a 30,000 SF major expansion which Taylor was the General Contractor. The expansion was a perfect transition between the Romanesque Revival and modern-day design.