Professional Life:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Engineering – University of Technology, Jamaica
- MSc in Civil Engineering and Construction Management – Heriot Watt University – ongoing
- Oversaw the project management and contract administration of the following projects from 2014 to date.
- 11 Civil Infrastructure Projects throughout Tortola and Virgin Gorda under the National Disaster Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project (NDIRP)
- 8 Civil Infrastructure Projects under the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Loan for Hurricane Irma (RRLHI)
- Jost Van Dyke Multipurpose Educational Facility
Values and Beliefs:
Inclusion and Diversity: I strongly advocate for gender equality and diversity in the workplace, striving to create an environment where everyone feels respected and valued regardless of gender, race, or background.
Social Justice: I believe in standing up against sexism, misogyny, and any form of discrimination, actively working to challenge societal norms and promote fairness and equality.
Impact and Legacy:
My legacy is woven into the very fabric of Tortola’s infrastructure, evident in the roads I traverse daily and the communities I serve. It manifests in the clear, navigable roads of Fish Bay, resilient even after intense rainfall that once rendered them impassable from similar events.
The enhancements along the Great Mountain Road instill a better sense of safety as I travel with my daughter, knowing the improvements ensure safer passage. The bridge culvert at Ballast Bay, now my home, stands as a testament to ensuring uninterrupted commuter access even during significant rainfall events.
The drainage systems at Horsepath and Huntum’s Ghut offer peace of mind to residents, mitigating the risk of flooding since their implementation. Similarly, the drainage infrastructure at Greenland and Parham Town, my inaugural project in the BVI, redirects surface runoff effectively to the sea, safeguarding these communities from inundation.
Challenges and Triumphs:
One of the most formidable challenges I’ve faced, beyond the inherent complexities of construction, lies in navigating a predominantly male-dominated industry as a woman. Confronting instances of sexism, misogyny, and even outright dismissal of my contributions has been a recurring reality. However, rather than allowing these obstacles to deter me, they have served as catalysts, igniting my determination to deepen my expertise in the field and excel in my endeavors.
A pivotal lesson learned from grappling with setbacks encountered during project implementation is the importance of maintaining your composure. Amidst challenges I’ve learned the invaluable principles of “keeping your form” and “working the problem” which have now become my ethos. It is a steadfast
commitment to preserving clarity of thought in the face of adversity. In other words, don’t panic as it only adds to the problem and is antithetical to the focus required to solve problems. Keeping your form is where your intellect and experience harmonize and synergize, facilitating the emergence of effective solutions.
Interests and Hobbies:
Motherhood: While not categorized as a hobby, the joy I derive from spending time with and nurturing my daughter is immeasurable. The profound love I have for her surpasses anything I could have imagined. I view the responsibility of raising a child as one of the most intellectually demanding endeavors one can
undertake, as it necessitates precision and foresight in every decision made. The depth of this commitment underscores the importance of getting things right from the outset, reflecting both the challenges and rewards inherent in the journey of motherhood.
Continuous Learning: I find fulfillment in immersing myself in literature on project management and personal development, perpetually striving to expand my knowledge base and refine my skills. This ongoing pursuit of learning enables me to continuously enhance my expertise and management capabilities, ensuring that I remain at the forefront of my field.
I love the beach and go at every available opportunity. I’m also an avid tennis fan and enjoy taking hikes when possible.