When you think of career paths in construction, starting in a candy store might not be the first step that comes to mind. But for Kayt Hamill, Assistant Project Manager in Hermanson’s Special Projects Division (SPD), her winding career path has been all about people, problem-solving, and finding the right fit.

Kayt’s early career spanned a mix of roles and industries, from working as a cashier at a candy store to serving as an Optician’s Assistant and Medical Biller, and later as a Data Entry Specialist at an ophthalmic lens lab.

“Those experiences taught me how to problem-solve, collaborate, and stay calm under pressure,” she says. “Skills I rely on every day in construction, even though I didn’t realize it at the time.”

In 2022, Kayt decided it was time for a new challenge. Her mom, Beverlee, who also works at Hermanson, shared a posting for a Permit Coordinator role.

“I applied, interviewed, and quickly found that this was the right fit for me,” she recalls. From there, she progressed to Project Coordinator and now serves as an Assistant Project Manager, managing projects for tech clients.

A typical day for Kayt involves emails, meetings, site walks, and sometimes late-night calls from the field. But it’s the teamwork that excites her most.

“I love getting the right people in a room, giving them a problem, and seeing everyone collaborate across trades and companies to find the best solution. It’s the moments where the team clicks that make this job so rewarding.”

When asked what advice she has for those starting in construction, Kayt emphasizes curiosity and resilience: “Get out on site, ask questions, and don’t worry about not knowing everything right away. Growth comes from learning as you go.”

Kayt’s story shows that even unconventional paths can lead to success in construction

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