2024 Women in Construction – Mary Collins – Gilbane Building Co.

Mary Collins is known in the industry for her attention to detail.

“Mary keeps her documents current. She knows the projects well and remains proactive in solving problems that arise,” said her colleague, Jerome Klint. “Most importantly, Mary seeks satisfaction from the end-users of her projects and does it with enthusiasm and dedication.”

Collins is a project executive for Gilbane Building Co. The Marquette University graduate started her construction career in 2003, when she was hired by McShane Construction in Chicago. After two years at that job, she moved on to Power Construction, where she worked as a project engineer and project manager.

She was hired by Gilbane in 2015. During her time at the company, Collins has led multiple complex projects at the Potawatomi Casino Hotel, with a total value of more than $100 million.

“She has led her joint-venture teams with professionalism, accountability and sensitivity to the clients’ patrons and guests in a manner appropriate with the ethos of the Gilbane culture,” said Klint. “Mary’s planning and organization helps to establish priorities, enabling her to meet deadlines and schedules. She appropriately delegates tasks and follows through with commitments to others.

“She demonstrates attention to detail, accuracy and thoroughness. Her leadership inspires confidence as an effective role model for her team. She promotes teamwork within the work environment.”

Outside of work, Collins remains active with her alumni group at Marquette University. She has a younger brother who is special needs, and she stays very involved with him as well as support groups associated with his peers. Collins is also involved with charity groups and leads her teams’ Safety Week initiatives.

One of her passions is mentoring, and Collins enjoys helping young women gain new skills.

“She shows a unique ability to select and promote people in her charge,” Klint said.