2025 Spring Panel
Constructing Careers: Unconventional Paths to the AEC Industry
Our panel of accomplished professionals will explore various entry paths into the industry for candidates without a related 4-year degree. Topics include strategies for companies to set these candidates up for success as well as the long-term benefits of supporting individuals with diverse work experiences. Hear inspiring stories from those who have successfully entered the industry through non-traditional routes along with insights from employers who are developing programs specifically to support their professional development.
Thank you to the 2025 PWC Chicago Sponsors, who make this event possible.
Review the complete list of 2025 sponsors here.
Schedule of Events
5:30 - 6:30 PM Networking with drinks and appetizers
6:30 - 7:30 PM Panel discussion followed by audience question & answer
7:30 - 8:30 PM Additional networking with drinks and appetizers
Meet our Moderator
Shamar White
Business Engagement Manager
Revolution Workshop
Shamar White is a decorated Army Combat Veteran with 11 years of service. After separating, she worked as a case manager until she joined Revolution Workshop. At RW, Shamar applies both her Army Engineer background and case management skills to help trainees find their self-worth and passion for the construction industry.
When she is not preparing trainees for the placement, she is writing. She has had plays produced and read in New York City as well as written for the TV series VALOR previously on the CW Network. Shamar is a proud union member of the WGA West.
Meet our Panelists
Christopher Gesselle
Gilbane Building Company
PENDING
Jeanette Chavarria-Torres
President
DCH Construction & Hauling
Jeanette Chavarria-Torres is the President of DCH Construction & Hauling, a prominent construction hauling company serving the Chicagoland area since 2014.
With a background in business administration from Dominican University, Jeanette has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in the construction industry. Her dedication and accomplishments have earned her a spot in Crain's Chicago 20 in Their 20s, recognizing her as one of the city's emerging young leaders.
Beyond her work at DCH, Jeanette is also an active member of the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA), where she serves on the board, further contributing to the advancement of the industry.
Kelly Westwood, AIA, NCARB, NOMA
Senior Associate, Regional Critical Facilities Leader
Gensler
Kelly Westwood is a Licensed Architect in Illinois and New York with global design experience, advanced expertise in design technology, and a deep commitment to expanding access to the architecture profession. As Regional Practice Area Leader for Critical Facilities at Gensler and Founder/Director of the Gensler Apprenticeship Program (GAP), she is pioneering new pathways to licensure, removing barriers to entry, and fostering the next generation of design leaders.
Kelly’s foundation in engineering research at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, a leading center for engineering research and development, and her pragmatic problem-solving fuels her ability to tackle complex challenges with innovation and curiosity. Her leadership extends beyond architecture into fierce advocacy as a foster parent, having provided a safe and loving home to seven children, navigating the challenges of ensuring their security, stability, and future success.
Outside of work, Kelly finds joy in hiking, gardening, and spending time with her husband, Mike, and their family. She believes that creating opportunity—whether in architecture or life—requires both vision and unwavering dedication.
Kimberly Daniel
Assistant Project Manager
Bowa Construction
Kimberly Daniel is a dynamic construction professional with extensive experience in project management, development, and operations. Currently serving as an Assistant Project Manager at Bowa Construction, she plays a critical role in project delivery, cost control, and quality control while collaborating with field teams and stakeholders to execute high-quality projects.
Her career spans over a decade in construction and real estate, with a strong foundation built at CBRE, the world’s largest commercial real estate services firm. During her time there, she advanced from Project Coordinator to Associate Project Manager and ultimately to Project Manager, overseeing a diverse portfolio of landlord capital improvements, tenant build-outs, and infrastructure upgrades. She led project strategy, budgeting, scheduling, contractor negotiations, and risk management, ensuring seamless execution of high-impact developments.
Before transitioning into construction project management, Kimberly gained valuable experience in executive operations, working as an Executive and Administrative Assistant at leading architecture, development, and construction firms, including Related Midwest, Clayco, and Bailey Edward Design. In these roles, she honed her skills in contract management, financial oversight, and team coordination—laying the groundwork for her success in project leadership.
A strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the construction industry, Kimberly has been actively involved in mentorship and professional development efforts. Her journey reflects a commitment to continuous growth, operational excellence, and fostering opportunities for women in the field.
We support, advance and connect women and promote diversity within architecture, engineering, construction, development, and related industries.
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