Colleen Calandra

Colleen Calandra has made significant strides in a field where women have historically been underrepresented: construction. Raised in Helena, Montana, she turned her early exposure to building sites into a vibrant career, following in her father’s footsteps, who was a skilled carpenter. Today, as the head of a thriving construction firm, Colleen leads both commercial and residential projects, setting a standard for excellence in and around her hometown. From a young age, Colleen was no stranger to construction sites. She often accompanied her father and watched as he turned raw materials into cherished homes and living spaces. It was on these sites that she learned the value of hard work and the tangible joy of creating something meaningful from scratch. Her father’s influence was profound, embedding in her a love for construction that would define her career path. After completing high school, Colleen pursued higher education in Civil Engineering at Montana State University, where she deepened her understanding of the technical and environmental aspects of construction. This education equipped her with the skills necessary to navigate the complex challenges of construction management and set her up for a successful career in the industry. Upon graduation, Colleen began her career as a project manager at a local firm, where she quickly demonstrated her capability in overseeing complex projects from inception to completion. Her knack for meticulous management and her ability to ensure projects ran smoothly and efficiently led to her managing increasingly significant builds. Eventually, her entrepreneurial spirit drove her to start her own construction management business, where she continues to oversee a diverse array of projects, from high-end commercial spaces to intimate residential renovations.