Women Leading the Way in Windy Hills Elementary Remodel

(Kearney, Neb.; March 12, 2025) — As construction progresses on the Windy Hills Elementary School renovation, two women are leading the project, highlighting the growing role of women in the construction industry.

At the forefront of this project are Caitlin Snyder, lead architect with Wilkins ADP, and Lisa Amen, project manager with BD Construction. Their leadership and expertise make this project a fitting highlight inspired by last week’s Women in Construction Week (March 2-8), which celebrates the strength, knowledge, and vital role of women in shaping the future of the construction industry. This year’s theme, “Together We Rise,” reflects the collective progress of women in construction and the importance of mentorship and support in the field.

“Architecture is about more than just designing buildings—it’s about shaping spaces where people learn, grow, and connect,” said Snyder. “This project is especially rewarding because we’re creating a better educational environment for Kearney’s students.”

Amen, who oversees the construction process, echoed that sentiment. “Seeing the transformation take place and knowing we’re improving the daily lives of students and teachers makes my job rewarding,” she said.

Amen said the project has gone smoothly so far with very few unforeseen items coming up for an older building. “The project is ahead of schedule so teachers will have a good amount of time to get moved back in before school starts. Most of the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical upgrades are complete. Now, crews are working on finishes such as installing lights, casework, tack walls and acoustical ceilings.”

Windy Hills Elementary, part of Kearney Public Schools, was recently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of Nebraska’s top elementary schools. The school is receiving major upgrades, including a new HVAC system, improved windows and ceilings, and a fire suppression system. Students will also benefit from reconfigured interiors, new locker spaces, and new furniture and fixtures.

To allow for construction, Windy Hills students have temporarily relocated to Buffalo Hills Elementary for the 2024-2025 school year. While the move required careful coordination, the excitement surrounding the improvements has made the transition smoother for students, staff, and families.

“With two incredibly talented women leading this project, we’re not only improving Windy Hills, but we’re also showing our students—especially our young girls—that careers in construction, architecture, and engineering are absolutely within their reach,” said Jason Mundorf, KPS Superintendent. “It’s inspiring to see these professionals bringing their expertise to a project that directly benefits our students and community while simultaneously serving as a role model and example to follow for other talented females.”

With construction on schedule, Windy Hills Elementary will welcome students back in August 2025.

“This project also gave one of our Kearney High School students the opportunity to job shadow on-site, learning directly from these professionals,” added Mundorf. “It’s real-world learning at its best—she got to see women leading in construction and envision herself doing the same one day. That’s the kind of hands-on experience we want for all of our students.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction employment is projected to grow by 4.7% from 2023 to 2033, outpacing the average growth rate of 4.0% for all industries. This translates to an estimated 380,100 new construction jobs over the next decade. The median wage for construction occupations trends about 7.5% higher than the median for all occupations.

Women in Construction Week was first launched by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) in 1998 and has continued to grow each year, bringing attention to the expanding presence of women in an industry that has historically been male dominated. Snyder and Amen’s leadership on this project is a testament to that growth, demonstrating the expertise, innovation, and impact women bring to the field.

For women, the construction industry presents a unique opportunity to break barriers and thrive in a traditionally male-dominated field. While women currently make up only about 11% of the construction workforce, there's a growing movement to encourage and support women in construction careers. Organizations NAWIC provide resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship to help women succeed in the industry.

Built in 1980, Windy Hills has served the community for over four decades, expanding with its first addition in 1993 and later adding additional kindergarten classrooms. This landmark renovation—the first comprehensive overhaul in the building's history—will feature a state-of-the-art secure entrance and administrative offices. When students and staff return in August 2025, they'll discover a completely transformed educational space designed to meet modern learning needs while honoring the school's rich legacy.