2023 Women in Construction: Karina Ruiz, Aurora Contractors, Inc.

In the past year, what project or accomplishment are you most proud of? My proudest accomplishment this past year is my promotion as compliance manager. Since joining Aurora 10 years ago, I have taken Aurora’s project coordination department to new heights. I began my journey as a site-based project coordinator, assisting the teams on their day-to-day job site management. Through hard work and knack for organization, I rose quickly into a managerial role, creating a new position that would instill structure and order for current and upcoming jobs. I now oversee all project coordinators throughout every current project, all while working alongside the leadership team as they develop Aurora’s vision for the future.

What is your favorite building in New York? My new favorite building in New York is the 30 Hudson Yard due to “The Edge.” The Edge is a one-of-a-kind design that is the highest sky deck that is suspended in mid-air. The Edge gives you that feeling of floating in the sky with 360-degree views you can’t get anywhere else. I am a complete adrenaline junkie so that feeling of angled walls, glass floor, and incredible height make the trip to New York City completely worth it for me.

Which professional associations or organizations would you recommend to women who are starting out in the AEC industry? I would recommend that women should join the Associated General Contractors of America. They are the leading association for the construction industry and it is pertinent that women make their presence known. As a full-time working mom of two, I understand how difficult it can be for women in construction to find their stride. My goal is to encourage women to have confidence, understand their value, and bring new perspective. My dedication to increasing diversity and the role of women in the industry is unwavering. 

How can AEC companies recruit more women? A great way for AEC companies to recruit more women is to start helping women envision a life for themselves in construction. Construction schools, as with many trade schools, need recruit women by including us in the hiring process. Aurora Contractors, Inc. does a great job at attracting more women into the workforce by empowering us women who are already in. When you empower women, you build their self-esteem, and in return, you get highly-motivated employees. Good talent is exceptionally hard to find which is why we as women need to show that diverse teams are more productive and profitable.