HOLT CAT posted on March 04, 2025 13:14
By sharing her story, Samantha hopes to encourage more women to explore opportunities in construction, proving that success isn’t defined by stereotypes.The construction industry is often seen as tough, demanding, and fast-paced—a field where resilience and dedication make all the difference. For Samantha Mckelligan Sarabia, a Senior Corporate Recruiter at HOLT Group, these qualities are exactly what drew her to the industry. After spending years in banking, she was ready for a new challenge, and HOLT’s deep-rooted history and people-focused culture made construction an easy choice.
Eight months into her role, Samantha has found her niche in connecting people with opportunities, forming strong partnerships, and making a lasting impact on both candidates and business teams. As a recruiter, she plays a vital role in shaping the future of the company, ensuring that every new hire aligns with our values and mission. “It is incredibly rewarding to work in an environment where dedication and heart make a real difference,” she says.
Transitioning into a new industry is never easy, but with the right mentors, Samantha has found her footing. She credits Heather McDaniel, Aaron Horton, and Brandon Acosta, along with the support of her HR leadership team, for guiding her through the learning curve. Their mentorship has reinforced the importance of resilience, effective communication, and relationship-building—skills that Samantha now applies daily in her work.
One of the biggest misconceptions she hopes to break is the notion that women aren’t tough enough for construction. “Women bring a unique skill set to this industry—empathy, creativity, a different perspective, and a collaborative spirit that enriches the workplace and drives success,” she explains. For Samantha, it’s not about toughness in the traditional sense; it’s about adaptability and the ability to forge meaningful connections that strengthen the industry as a whole.
When asked what qualities are essential for success in construction, she emphasizes that while technical skills have their place, the foundation of a thriving career lies in communication, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to build long-lasting relationships. These are the qualities that set great professionals apart, allowing them to navigate challenges and contribute to the industry's ongoing evolution.
For Samantha, Women in Construction Week is more than just a celebration. “It’s a chance to show that with hard work, dedication, and the power of genuine relationships, women can lead, inspire, and redefine what is possible in construction,” she says. By sharing her story, she hopes to encourage more women to explore opportunities in construction, proving that success isn’t defined by stereotypes, but by passion, determination, and the willingness to break barriers.