Celebrating Women’s History Month
October is a time when we reflect not only on the projects we’ve completed, but also on the people and values that drive us forward. At HKC Construction, one of those values is leadership through diversity. As a women-led construction company, we are proud to highlight the role of women in construction and the impact they continue to make in shaping the future of our industry.
Women in Construction
The construction industry has historically been dominated by men, but over the past decade we’ve seen a steady increase in women joining the field as engineers, project managers, architects, estimators, and business leaders. Despite representing only a small percentage of the overall workforce, women have been breaking barriers and proving that talent and leadership are not defined by gender.
At HKC Construction, we believe in being part of that change. We have built a team where women are not just included, but empowered to lead and inspire. From the office to the job site, our culture is built on collaboration, mentorship, and respect. We know that representation matters, and when women see other women leading in construction, it opens the door for more to follow.
The Leadership of Helen Mentis
At the heart of HKC’s success is Helen Mentis, our Co-Founder and Vice President. Since 2010, Helen has played a central role in shaping HKC into the trusted name it is today. Her leadership has guided the company from its early beginnings in property management renovations to becoming a recognized general contractor with a strong portfolio across commercial, industrial, retail, and design-build projects.
Helen’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. Over the years she has been recognized with multiple awards and distinctions, including HKC being named one of Canada’s Top Growing Women-Led Companies. These achievements are not just milestones for our company, but also a reflection of what women can accomplish in industries where they are often underrepresented.
Her leadership style is rooted in integrity and community. Helen is deeply committed to supporting her team, mentoring young professionals, and building strong client relationships. She is proof that women in construction are not just participants, but innovators and trailblazers.
Why Women in Construction Matter
Representation is more than numbers. When women lead construction companies, design buildings, and manage complex projects, it challenges stereotypes and changes perceptions. It shows future generations that opportunities in construction are open to everyone, regardless of gender.
Diverse teams also bring better results. Different perspectives lead to more creative problem-solving, stronger communication, and higher client satisfaction. At HKC, we see these benefits every day, and we know that supporting women in construction makes our industry stronger as a whole.
Looking Ahead
As we move into the final months of 2025, HKC Construction remains committed to supporting women in every area of our work. We are proud to stand as a women-led company and to highlight leaders like Helen Mentis who continue to inspire change.
Women in construction are reshaping the industry, project by project and company by company. At HKC, we will continue to celebrate their achievements, create opportunities, and prove that the future of construction is inclusive, diverse, and filled with possibility.
