2025 Women in Construction Week Q&A Series
To commemorate Women in Construction Week this year, St. John Properties spoke with talented representatives from our in-house construction, development, and sustainability teams across the country to create the following Q&A series. This series highlights the expertise and experiences of seven hardworking, accomplished women in their own words.
Founded by the National Association of Women in Construction in 1998, WIC Week highlights the growing impact and invaluable contributions of women in the construction industry. This year’s theme, ‘Together we Rise’, celebrates the strength and knowledge of women and the vital role they play in shaping the future of the construction industry.
We’re grateful to Alice, Brooke, Natasha, Hope, Jen, Alaina, and Tessie for sharing their experiences, and to all the hardworking women who continue to help make St. John Properties a success.
What drew you to the construction field, and what do you enjoy most about your role?
Hope Jones, Senior Project Coordinator | Austin, TX
We make tangible products that benefit our community. Seeing how construction can bring a small tenant’s business dreams to life has been so rewarding… we give our tenants a place to go to help them develop their business goals, we give them room to grow and succeed.
Natasha Peabody, Assistant Project Manager | Southern Maryland
I was drawn to development because of the ability to positively impact new and existing communities… we build spaces that create community, and not just ‘pit-stops’ for work, dining, healthcare, etc. My role allows me to help ensure we maximize quality of everyday experiences for tenants, residents and visitors.
Alaina Kiewit, Regional Partner | Charlotte, NC
This industry is deeply rooted in relationships, collaboration, and problem-solving, which I find incredibly rewarding. At the same time, I love seeing projects come to life, knowing that the work we do results in something concrete and lasting.
What is the coolest or most interesting project or task you’ve had the opportunity to work on?
Jen Schaaf, Interior Construction Project Coordinator | Virginia & Central Maryland
The coolest task I’ve had the opportunity to do was to have the responsibility for getting a permit for said job that day. Even though we didn’t think we were able to, but to have that responsibility and getting the job done to come back to the office with smiling coworkers made me feel accomplished.
Alice Russell, Sustainability Coordinator | Baltimore Headquarters
Tracking our portfolio’s energy consumption including solar production. We can now measure the results of our past and future energy efficiency projects portfolio-wide and identify ways to save even more energy… I’m really looking forward to powering more of our buildings with solar.
Tessie Graham, Construction Coordinator | Utah
I enjoyed helping as a project engineer in the field. I love all the action and coordination involved on a jobsite.
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Brooke Harlander, Regional Partner | Austin, TX
“It’s not just who you know, but who knows what you know.” I think it means that we have to be brave enough to advocate for ourselves, and share our accomplishments with others.
Natasha Peabody, Assistant Project Manager | Southern Maryland
Never miss out on an opportunity to listen. The key to really get the most out of being surrounded by such experienced and successful people is to learn. Taking every opportunity to learn what you don’t know, observe and ask questions is one of the most valuable tools to grow.
Jen Schaaf, Interior Construction Project Coordinator | Virginia & Central Maryland
There are going to be mistakes made along the way, it’s a given, but it’s the way you handle those mistakes and situations that make you a stronger and better person for them.
What career advice would you give a woman new to the construction field?
Alaina Kiewit, Regional Partner | Charlotte, NC
Confidence, curiosity, and a strong work ethic will take you far. Also, surround yourself with like-minded role models.
Alice Russell, Sustainability Coordinator | Baltimore Headquarters
Find your north star, your why. Let everything follow from there. We need everyone’s skills and perspectives.
Hope Jones, Senior Project Coordinator | Austin, TX
Be open to learning new things because there is always room to grow, be determined and committed to your work, and have fun!
In what ways has St. John Properties allowed you to grow your career and invest in yourself?
Alice Russell, Sustainability Coordinator | Baltimore Headquarters
Being a part of the Sustainability team at SJP has allowed me to dig into the issues that matter to me and gain a valuable understanding of the way our world gets built.
Tessie Graham, Construction Coordinator | Utah
St. John Properties gave me the chance to utilize my talents and education in my position as a Construction Coordinator the best way that I can.
Brooke Harlander, Regional Partner | Austin, TX
St. John Properties trained me, invested in me and has continued to support me as I work every day to help us grow. I would not achieve success without the dedication of our team. The SJP team has a bench full of brilliant, dedicated, and kind women. I’m grateful to be a part of it.
