Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1540924
• NOTABLE Women IN CONSTRUCTION B14 HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | NOVEMBER 3, 2025 C olleen Byrnes Right of Way Coordinator, Clearing Division SUPREME INDUSTRIES C olleen Byrnes serves as a project manager for Supreme's Clearing Division, overseeing the clearing of both new and existing power line rights-of-way—primarily in Connecticut, but also in other regions where the company operates. With a strong emphasis on proactive management, she ensures that clearing projects progress smoothly from bidding through completion. Her responsibilities include managing public relations, maintaining environmental compliance, assisting with crew selection and deploy- ment, coordinating "Call Before You Dig" compliance, and overseeing the permitting process. What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and how did you get started? After working in the utility vegetation management side for a number of years I had the opportunity to work on a few larger power line rebuild projects. I liked the com- plexity involved in these larger projects and knew this was the direction I wanted to pursue. What challenges have you faced as a woman in the construction industry, and how have you overcome them? When I started I expected to be treated differently but that wasn't the case. I found that if you meet the expec- tations and can hang with the guys you gain their re- spect. You fit in as an equal. It was somewhat intimidat- ing at the start but it's become very rewarding. What advice would you give to young women considering a career in construction? Be encouraged to work from the bottom up – it has given me a truer understanding of the construction process and the culture. You come out a more resilient, better, stronger person. The time invested is very rewarding, and becoming a part of the team is a great feeling. Supreme Industries helps power, pipeline, renewable and site construction professionals complete challenging projects. As a comprehensive specialty contractor our goal is providing expertise to complex right of way clearing, disaster relief, access road, renewable and site preparation projects, with a commitment to deliver quality results on schedule and on budget. 216 Lower Bogue Road Harwinton, CT 06791 (860) 485-0343 www.supremeindustries.com