Candace Klein is breaking barriers in the male-dominated construction industry as the president of Klein Contracting, one of the few certified woman-owned commercial roofing companies in the U.S. But rather than following a traditional trades path, Klein took a more unconventional route to getting where she is today.
Klein began her career in IT consulting after earning a writing degree with a focus on technology from Carnegie Mellon University. However, in an effort to have better work-life balance, she pivoted to her family’s asbestos abatement business, which later transformed into a commercial roofing business. Following this move, she received Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) certification, which helped her access resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities that ultimately helped her business thrive.
With the construction industry facing a projected workforce shortage of nearly a million workers, Klein is determined to not only address this gap but also inspire more women to join the trades. “There are so many opportunities in construction, and we need more women in the field,” Klein asserts. “It’s a great industry to reshape communities. It offers the chance to build something that lasts.”
Klein is also a vocal advocate for mentorship and support for other women in construction. Through her involvement in the Women in Construction (WIC) Week, which celebrates women’s achievements in the field each March, Klein helps highlight the challenges and successes of women like herself. Learn more about Klein’s story
