In honor of National Women’s History Month this March, the Federation of Women Contractors recognizes women in leadership by hosting a panel of women owners and executives representing various types of firms in the construction industry. We will discuss and highlight career paths, the challenges along the way, and the successes that kept them going. We’ll also discuss how their organizations make room for other women in leadership and create opportunities for women-owned businesses.

Don't miss this inspiring event. Enjoy a buffet lunch with your FWC Colleagues while you make some great business connections.

Our panelists:

		Kimberly S. Moore President & Founder KDM Engineering Growing up on Chicago’s South Side, Kimberly Moore had always been a fan of tinkering. Lovingly known to her family as “Ms. Fix It” — even at a young age, she was able to focus on creative ways to solve problems. Moore received her Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Northern Illinois University, playing D1 basketball for the NIU Huskies while an undergraduate. In 2008, Moore created KDM Engineering to provide consulting services on engineering projects. Unfortunately, the effects of the recession, coupled with Moore’s father falling ill, resulted in the temporary closure of KDM while she went to care for him full-time. After his untimely death in 2011, Moore returned more determined than ever to build KDM into the successful company she had envisioned. Under Moore’s guiding hand and unique leadership style, KDM has become a proven leader in the industry, growing to over 100 employees and successfully completing work on thousands of projects. Being among the first few black women to graduate from NIU with an electrical engineering degree, Moore knows firsthand what it’s like to be the only person in the room who looks and talks like her. She has made it her mission to change that. Deeply committed to assembling a uniquely diverse team, KDM is proof of the unquestionable advantages to ensuring diversity in background, thought, and experience. Moore strongly believes that having different perspectives when solving complex issues will have a positive impact on our infrastructure well into the future.
		Mary Person Senior Vice President, Public-Private Initiatives Clayco As senior vice president, public-private initiatives, Mary Person develops public and public-private sector business development opportunities for Clayco, as well as lead strategic initiatives in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) through community engagement. With her expertise in community and economic development initiatives that help establish a diverse and local workforce on projects, Mary brings senior executive leadership and vision that enhances Clayco’s integrated approach to real estate development, design, construction and planning, as well as further our commitment to strengthening the communities where we work. Person works closely with the Chicago Business Unit of Clayco on business development to enhance public-private market expansion opportunities in Chicago and nationwide. Her vast experience implementing utilization programs for subcontractors, unions and community groups also enhance Clayco’s DEI initiatives and address the industry’s ongoing labor shortage.
		Christy Webber President/CEO Christy Webber Landscapes In 1994, Christy incorporated the business calling it Christy Webber & Company, and by 1997, the name changed to Christy Webber Landscapes. Through her hard work, humility, and gentle heart, she partnered with passionate landscapers like herself, and her staff grew to over 400 employees. Christy will personally tell anyone that her business was and will always be about the dedicated people that chose to work for her. She took risks on those that had no more chances and hired professionals in areas of her business that she didn't understand. What Christy brought to this business was an undying love of landscapes, curiosity, and the patience to learn and grow.