Niagara College, in partnership with the Niagara Home Builders’ Association, is hosting a panel event on March 5 to celebrate Women in Construction Week.
This event will feature an engaging discussion with four inspiring women from across the construction industry, who will share their personal experiences, insights, and the diverse opportunities available in this dynamic field. Following the panel, a Q&A session will provide participants the chance to ask questions and dive deeper into the panelists’ career journeys and the evolving role of women in construction.
Event Details:
- Date: March 5
- Time: 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Location: Niagara College Welland Campus (in-person) and virtually via Zoom
- Open to: All Niagara College students, employees, and external partners
- Registration information: This hybrid event will take place in-person at Niagara College’s Welland Campus and virtually via Zoom. Space is limited, so please register asap to secure your spot. Register here.
Panelists:
Sezan Aktan
Sezan Aktan, a graduate of both Niagara College’s Construction Engineering Technology and Architecture programs, as well as Lakehead University’s Civil Engineering program, brings over 10 years of experience to the table. Holding dual accreditations as a Professional Engineer and a Professional Quantity Surveyor, Sezan has been instrumental in the successful delivery of various large-scale projects, including road redevelopment and rail transit initiatives at A.W. Hooker Associates Ltd.
Lisa Caruso
Lisa Caruso, a Professor in NC’s School of Trades, has made significant contributions to the construction industry throughout her career. A lifelong Niagara resident, Lisa completed her Tool and Die Apprenticeship program after high school and specialized in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming and machining. After 23 years in the trade, she transitioned to teaching full-time at Niagara College, fulfilling a long-held dream to shape the next generation of tradespeople.
Kelly Gonzalez
As the Safety Coordinator at Cotton Inc. in Niagara Falls, Kelly Gonzalez manages the Health & Safety program and WSIB claims management. She holds the NCSO (National Construction Safety Officer) designation, becoming the first woman in Ontario to do so. Kelly is an active member of multiple industry committees, including the Niagara Construction Association’s Women in Construction Committee, and advocates for safety on job sites, ensuring that workers feel comfortable voicing safety concerns.
Rebecca Rogers
Rebecca Rogers is a seasoned project manager with 18 years of experience in the construction industry. A graduate of Mohawk College, she specializes in mid-rise residential projects and has a diverse background spanning commercial developments, low-rise residential construction, and educational capital projects. Over the years, she has worked with builders, general contractors, and a school board, bringing a wealth of expertise in project planning, execution, and stakeholder collaboration.
Moderator:
Danielle Rinaldi
Danielle Rinaldi, Vice President of Rinaldi Homes, brings over 20 years of experience in the home building industry. As a busy mom of three, she oversees the operations of over 30 employees at Rinaldi Homes, ensuring smooth project delivery. Danielle has played a key role in driving the company to achieve multiple Niagara Home Builders’ Association (NHBA), Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA), and Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) award accolades.
