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V O L . X X X I N O. X X I I I O C T O B E R 6 , 2 0 2 5 20 4 0 U N D E R 4 0 AWA R D It's an incredible community of people who focus together on building ourselves up, without worrying about aesthetics, and as a woman, that's very empowering. Lightbulb moment: I've realized that it matters much less what you do with your life and much more about who you do it with. Construction is all about working with a team to build something great. On many of our projects, we have hundreds if not thousands of people who help the project come together, and there is nothing more fulfilling than working with other like-minded individuals to build a lasting impact on the community. Every day I'm motivated to be the best person I can be, not just for myself, but for my team. Influential book: "The Obstacle is the Way," by Ryan Holiday Favorite TV show: Anything on Bravo! Talk to me about all things "Real Housewives." Personal hero: My great grandma Noni. She was an impossibly strong woman — fiercely loyal, and a force to be reckoned with. Now that I am a parent myself, I have even more respect for her and the life that she built for our family. She persevered through so much and came out stronger and more resilient for it. Favorite quote: My high school year book quote still holds true today! "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." — Dr. Seuss Best way to recharge: I'm spending time with my husband and kids explor- ing Portland — either at the Eastern Promenade or trying new restaurants and breweries. I'm also on the board of local nonprofits that have missions to serve local youth and help develop the next generation of Maine leaders: the Mitchell Institute and Hardy Girls. What is Maine's biggest challenge? We have a workforce shortage here in Maine. It's critical that we get more young people involved in the skilled trades, as well as the many other career pathways that exist in construction. It's really important that our industry invests in partnerships with local schools and workforce development organizations to engage — early and often — with learners of all ages who might not envi- sion themselves in a STEM industry like construction, but just need opportunity and exposure. Dinner par ty guests: My maternal grandpa was a huge part of my child- hood and I would love for him to meet my two daughters. Building fond memories with family is important to me and I hope to continue that tradition for my kids. Invigorating the next generation of craftspeople Julie Curran, 34 Managing director, Great Falls Construction Lightbulb moment: I think of it more as a dimmer switch. Over time, with experiences, meet- ing and learning from new people, that dimmer func- tion has turned up little by little. Having worked in many indus- tries from hospital- ity to criminal justice and higher educa- tion, to now con- struction and real estate development, through it all I found the gratification in my work centers around serving people well and with kindness. It may sound simple, but the moments where the light seems to turn up for me are centered around serv- ing people well. Influential book: There are many I've enjoyed but one that sticks out recently is "The Myth of Normal," by Gabor Maté. He is a bril- liant thinker who reframes the human experience and how nature and culture influence it. Favorite quote: My dad used to email a "Quote of the Day" each day grow- ing up and I think it started my like of quotes and the guidance and wisdom they help assign to daily life. Here's a few: "Your words will travel to places you never will." "Fair is a place you get cotton candy." And "C'est la vie" — life is too short to sweat the small stuff. Maine's biggest challenge: Having worked in the past with homeless and juveniles in detention populations, I saw firsthand how lack of adequate housing affected these individuals on a micro level and the healthy growth of society on a macro level. Ensuring there are safe and accessible homes in our com- munities for our neighbors is a challenge that rightfully continues to garner more attention and focus. I am proud of our team's commitment to building many of these homes in our community. I also appreciate that all housing coming on the market helps to infuse inventory, making more homes accessible for all. I'd also highlight that workforce development, specifically in the trades, is an area of need. At Great Falls, we spend a lot of energy training in hopes to invigorate the next generation of craftsperson in Maine. Giving them the space to learn and grow is extremely important to make the homes and spaces we need, enjoy and exist in, day in and day out. Best way to recharge: Trav- eling, eating at one of the many amazing spots in Maine, cooking, time with family and friends on Sebago, skiing, going to one of the great ocean beaches, a good cup of coffee or glass of wine when the mood strikes. A champion for employee wellness at Bath Iron Works Kiley Cyr, 34 Senior human resources manager, Bath Iron Works Greatest achievement: Personally, becoming a mother, and profes- sionally, how much career growth I have had in my 30s thus far. Passion project: I am very proud of the "Fit for Life" well-being pro- gram I get to be a part of at BIW. I have had the opportunity to support lots of projects that have a positive impact on our employees' health and wellbeing. One I am most proud of is our injury prevention pro- gram led by athletic trainers who focus on education of ergonomic principles like green zones, task rotation and pre-work warmups. The athletic trainers work side by side with our mechanics to assist using these prin- ciples to reduce injuries by limiting contact stress, repetitive motions and awkward positions. L i g h t b u l b m o m e n t : Realizing that success in my career and fulfillment as a mom don't have to be separate paths. Balancing career growth and mother- hood is possible; you can thrive in both. Influential book: "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," by Stephen R. Covey Favorite TV show: "Friends" Personal hero: My grandfather; he believed in me like no one else, and had a strong influence on my life — one that has helped shape who I am today, professionally and personally. The legacy he has left behind will always have a significant impact on who I strive to be. Favorite quote: My long-term mentor told me at the start of my career, "If you're comfortable you aren't growing." Best way to recharge: My greatest joys in life are being a wife and mom. Maine's biggest challenge: One of Maines's greatest challenges today is balanc- ing its housing market with the needs of its workforce. Dinner party guests: I love to cook when I have time, it's a way I release stress, I would absolutely want to have dinner with Gordon Ramsay mostly to learn a few tips I could use in my own kitchen when cooking for my family. The second person goes back to an elementary school book report on Amelia Earhart. She has always been inspirational to me as one of the first women to fly solo across the Atlantic — I would love to hear more about that journey, and her courage and persis- tence. The third would be Cleopatra due to her strong leadership and unique challenges. I would be interested to hear her perspective on power and influence. » C O N T I N U E D F RO M P R E V I O U S PA G E C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 2 » My greatest joys in life are being a wife and mom. — Kiley Cyr Bath Iron Works

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