Connector Extraordinaire

I love an introvert (more on that topic in a future MOXY article), and Kathryn Hart Tinnesz is a self-proclaimed one. When I first talked to Kathryn in late 2022, I was fascinated by not only her background but also her drive to consistently challenge herself and explore the construction industry from all angles. She is a thinker, a connector, a creative, and sensitive soul – exactly what an industry with still a few too many sharp edges needs in order to diversify and grow.

Kathryn started at community college and then went to Virginia Tech, where she earned a B.S. in Building Construction and a B.S. in Psychology. While a student at Virginia Tech, she founded a student-run organization dedicated to supporting young women interested in exploring a career path in construction. It is still thriving a decade later.

Post college, Kathryn says “stepping out into adulthood was daunting,” and that she often struggled with finding her niche, deciding on whether to make a big move to another company (which she did!), and even feeling some early onset burnout (side note: be sure to check out Jen Kelly’s “(Tough) Love Letter to Construction”).

Kathryn, also founding president of NAWIC NOVA, has been a project engineer, an assistant superintendent, a superintendent, a project manager and in business development. Through it all, she has met many women who have navigated, in silence, similar challenges with knowing how to best fit in, be heard, and make an impact. “Over the last couple of years, I realized I needed to share stories of life in construction and to create connections [within] the construction industry.”

So, she did what go-getters do. She started a podcast. Space to Build is in its third year and already in the top 10% of all global podcasts.

It provides digital resources as well as tips and tricks for navigating careers in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC), along with showcasing the career stories of women in AEC. Space to Build covers many MOXY-approved topics, including “How Motherhood Fits Into the Construction Industry” and “The Hidden Flaws in Your Mentorship: How to Get the Most Out of Your Construction Career.”

“I am focused on growing a podcast management business focused on amplifying voices of those in AEC, whether it is a business, organization, or an individual looking to create a personal brand,” Kathryn said.

In addition, she supports Virginia Tech students through the construction program’s Young Alumni Committee as an active committee member and recently helped students prepare for their career fair through resume and pitch guidance. Drawing on her boots-in-the-dirt experience and genuine interest in people (that construction / psychology combo of degrees truly packs a punch), Kathryn mentors women on career development in construction, providing guidance on transitioning into a construction career, building professional relationships, and gaining confidence. Her support has made a significant impact on countless women, both one-on-one and through her platforms.

Her contributions are getting noticed. In 2021, Construction Dive named her a leading mentor who not only helps others break into the industry but also has long strived to make it a better place for all. In addition, Virginia Tech’s Myers-Lawson School of Construction recognized her as the 2022 Building Construction Outstanding Young Alumna.

“At my core, I love connecting people to others and resources they can use to reach their full potential,” Kathryn said. “I love being that supportive figure helping them find the path and confidence. I am a developer and connector.”

And an introvert. See why I love them? :)