Irene Walsh Garcia

Girder Skirts the Podcast

This episode features Irene Walsh Garcia.

With over 20 years’ experience in the construction industry, Irene has experienced firsthand the challenges women face working in the construction industry. Although the road has been anything but smooth, Irene has figured out what it takes to succeed.

Irene entered the construction industry as an electrical apprentice for Local 134. After completing the apprenticeship, Irene was encouraged by her foreman to go into project management. In order to prepare for the leap into management, Irene completed a construction management program, and passed the Supervising Electrician's exam. With these additions to her resume, Irene was hired as a junior estimator for an electrical contractor.

Even though it was a big adjustment leaving the field for the office, Irene proved very quickly to everyone around her that she had what it takes. Within a year of being hired as an estimator, Irene became the project manager on a 60 story high rise. Although completing that project was one of the hardest things Irene has ever done, it fueled her passion for working in the construction industry. Irene has gone on to successfully complete many more projects since that first one.

Among Irene’s many projects are: the core & shell of 300 N. LaSalle, a 60 story high rise, the 462 room expansion and 800 room renovation at the McCormick Place Hyatt, many large tenant buildouts, including the CPS office relocation, and 8 years completing a variety of Healthcare projects at Northwestern Memorial Hospital which is where she currently finds herself.

Irene is most passionate about helping women find success in the construction industry.