WIC Week 2026: Building Industry Excellence
Women in Construction (WIC) Week is a time to recognize the leadership, talent, and resilience of team members who are shaping the built environment. At HPM, we’re proud to highlight three women who bring expertise, creativity, and heart to their roles every day. Their perspectives offer a powerful look at what it means to build, lead, and grow in the construction management industry.
Iriana Hauth – Project Manager
How long she’s worked in construction management:
Iriana began her journey with HPM as a co‑op in January 2020 and now serves as a Project Manager at Airbus.
A surprising skill she uses every day:
Communication. Iriana spends much of her time translating priorities between teams, aligning stakeholders, and keeping momentum on projects.
What she finds most rewarding:
For Iriana, it’s all about progress—overcoming challenges, reaching milestones, and seeing a project come to life. Knowing her work has a lasting impact is what drives her.
Her advice for women entering the field:
“Don’t be intimidated—your perspective is valuable.” She encourages women to ask questions, speak up, and find a trusted mentor who can support them along the way.
Claudia Olivar – Project Manager
Background and journey into construction:
Claudia graduated as a Civil Engineer in Venezuela, began her career in construction materials testing, and transitioned into project management after moving to the U.S. She’s always been motivated by turning ideas into tangible results and contributing to projects that benefit entire communities.
A surprising skill she uses daily:
Claudia emphasizes that communication is just as important as technical expertise. It keeps teams aligned, builds trust, and helps decisions happen quickly—especially in fast‑paced construction environments.
What she finds most rewarding:
Her work in school districts brings her meaningful fulfillment. Seeing students and teachers walk into a newly completed space—and witnessing their excitement firsthand—reminds her of the impact these projects have on daily lives.
Tara Gentile – Assistant Project Manager
How long she’s been in the field:
Tara entered the construction industry in 2021 while completing her engineering degree. She has served as an Assistant Project Manager at HPM’s Birmingham office for about a year and a half.
What led her to construction management:
Engineering opened the door, but project and construction management captured her interest. Tara loves the variety—new teams, new clients, and new challenges every day.
What she finds most rewarding:
The moment a project is complete. “Being able to see the space that started as construction plans finished and ready to be used is an exciting moment.”
Building Their Future
Iriana, Claudia, and Tara each bring unique strengths to the construction industry, yet they share common threads: resilience, commitment, communication, and a passion for creating spaces that serve others.
This WIC Week, we celebrate their contributions—and the many women across HPM and the industry who continue to build with purpose.
