Leading One of Kansas City’s Most Powerful Construction Groups
Bridgette Williams is changing the face of leadership in Kansas City. As the first Black woman CEO of the Heavy Constructors Association of Greater Kansas City (HCA), she oversees one of the most influential organizations in the region. HCA plays a key role in nearly every major construction project in the metro area.
Williams has already left her mark, contributing to massive projects such as the new Kansas City International Airport terminal and the Panasonic plant in De Soto, Kansas. Her leadership ensures that HCA remains a major player in shaping the city’s infrastructure.
A Visionary Leader With a Strong Work Ethic
Williams built her career on determination and a hands-on approach. “I got to this position because I work hard and I fought for it,” she said. While she recognizes her historic achievement, she believes her leadership is about bringing a fresh perspective rather than just breaking barriers.
She describes herself as “just Bridgette trying to maneuver through the day,” but her work speaks volumes. Her focus is on making construction projects run smoothly while advocating for fair opportunities within the industry.
From Receptionist to Trailblazer
Williams’ journey in labor leadership started with a simple newspaper ad. She took a part-time receptionist job at the Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO while figuring out her next career move. That decision set her on a path to leadership.
By age 27, she became the first Black female president of the local AFL-CIO, a position she held for 15 years. Her success in labor organizing and workforce advocacy paved the way for her transition to HCA, where she continues to push for progress in construction and labor relations.
Commitment to Building a Stronger Future
Williams sees herself as a fighter, not just for her own career but for others following in her footsteps. “My primary goal is always to leave things better than they were when I came,” she said.
She acknowledges the sacrifices made by those before her and uses Black History Month as a time to reflect on their struggles. “Where we came from is as important as where we’re going,” she said, emphasizing the importance of learning from the past to build a better future.
Paving the Way for Future Black Women Leaders
As she leads HCA, Williams is committed to creating opportunities for others. She hopes her journey will inspire Black women to step into leadership roles, not just in construction but across all industries.
Her impact extends beyond her current role. By fostering inclusion and driving major projects forward, Williams is reshaping Kansas City’s construction industry while leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
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