For Tara Gallegos, construction wasn’t just a career choice—it was a natural extension of her upbringing. Her father’s, Stu Woodworth, passion for blueprints, color-coded plans, and precision inspired her early on. In high school, she eagerly took every CADD class available, and after attending a seminar about Dunwoody College of Technology, she knew exactly where her path would lead.

Now a Project Manager at Sonus Interiors, Tara has built a career defined by resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering belief in the power of relationships. One of her proudest project accomplishments was securing the ANW SCCP contract, a project she had been budgeting for years. But beyond the tangible successes, her greatest personal achievement has been building confidence—a quality she acknowledges doesn’t always come easily for women in male-dominated industries.

Confidence has been crucial in overcoming challenges. Early in her career, she encountered workplaces where women were limited to administrative roles, with little room for advancement in project management or estimating. In another instance, a superior told her to “dig into [her] inner b**ch” to command respect on the job. Tara took a different approach—one rooted in kindness, respect, and positivity. Rather than forcing conflict, she chooses to work with those who value collaboration and shared success. That mindset ultimately led her to Sonus Interiors, where she found a company culture that aligned with her values.

Over the years, Tara has seen the industry evolve, with more women stepping into leadership and management roles, even in traditionally male-dominated positions like superintendents. She believes women bring a unique perspective—fostering teamwork, collaboration, and relationship-building in ways that complement the task-oriented approach often seen in the industry.

For women looking to enter the construction field, Tara offers this advice: An interview is just as much for you as it is for the company. Ask about management styles, long-term goals, and how they support work-life balance. She also emphasizes the importance of mentorship—whether from a man or woman—because true progress in the industry comes from collective support, not just from within.

Tara’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and authenticity in a field that continues to evolve. She’s paving the way for future generations of women in construction, proving that confidence, respect, and hard work are the ultimate tools for success.