For 79 years, Bobbitt has been a cornerstone of the commercial and industrial construction industry. As a full-service general contractor specializing in design-build, the company provides comprehensive solutions, including general contracting, interior construction, and construction management. Its deep local roots and expertise ensure that every project is designed with purpose and built for lasting impact.
The team at Bobbitt believes that a strong, diverse workforce drives innovation and success. This is evidenced in its commitment to creating an environment where women can thrive in all facets of construction.
Three women at Bobbitt share how the company champions diverse perspectives and how their role helps strengthen the communities around the Triangle area. Click here to view the full article:
How does Bobbitt value people?
“Bobbitt values people based on their skills and contributions, not just their gender. When I was hired, and when any of the women at Bobbitt was hired, it was based on merit—not as part of a diversity initiative or for the sake of meeting quotas. Bobbitt doesn’t single out women for special treatment; instead, the company focuses on hiring the best person for the job, regardless of gender.”
Why should more women consider a career in the construction field?
“I’ve been in the industry for 27 years…and I wish more women would give construction a chance. It offers real opportunities to grow, increase your earning potential, and build a career where you can pass down knowledge to the next generation. Women are accepted here. You can start in any position and work your way up.”
-Machelle Grospitz
How is Bobbitt’s leadership advancing opportunities for women in the industry?
“I have never felt more respected as an architect than I do at Bobbitt, which is the opposite of many of my past experiences in this field. For most of my career, I have been in the minority as a woman in architecture. At Bobbitt, my perspective is genuinely valued. Leadership listens to me, supports what I advocate for, and actively opens doors for me. Different experiences and viewpoints lead to stronger, more well-rounded solutions.”
Why is emotional intelligence an important contribution to the construction industry?
“Strong emotional intelligence helps build connections, strengthen teams, and create a more collaborative work environment. In the public sector, having a diverse team helps open doors and build trust with clients. When a client sees themselves represented in the team they’re working with, it fosters a stronger relationship and, ultimately, a better project outcome. At Bobbitt, our design team is evenly split—50% male and 50% female—and 25% of our team members are from minority backgrounds. That kind of balance makes a real difference in the way we approach projects and problem-solving.”
-Bailey Allred
What are some of the biggest benefits of having women in construction?
“Women bring a natural sense of care and nurturing, which benefits both our clients and our teams. We’re often strong multitaskers, which allows us to approach challenges with a balanced perspective. Women also tend to focus more on the why behind a project, not just the what—we think about the long-term vision as well as the immediate execution. That kind of perspective strengthens our work.”
Why is diversity in construction important to you and Bobbitt?
“As a woman of color, representation is deeply personal to me. I started out in this industry 22 years ago, there were no women or people of color in leadership positions and therefore visualizing myself in those positions was difficult. I want women and people of color to know “You can do this, there are no limitations to your success.”
Diversity in our workforce also means bringing different perspectives and voices into the room. Our clientele is diverse, so it’s imperative for them to see that same diversity reflected in us.
It took time to build confidence, to step up and be respected for my voice and my ideas. But what I’ve learned is this: Come in as you are, and never try to blend in. Bobbitt values people for who they are and the unique perspectives they bring. Once you embrace that and grow into being a trailblazer, that’s when you truly shine.”
-Jeané Powers
