ASHLIE STAPLETON

Director of Inclusion and Industry Engagement / Pepper Construction

Ashlie Stapleton was promoted to the role of Director of Inclusion and Industry Engagement in 2022 after serving as a project manager with Pepper Construction for four years.  Now with almost 14 years in the AEC industry, and a Civil Engineering degree from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Ashlie’s background in operations, combined with her understanding of Pepper's culture, make her the ideal leader to fill this critical role. While she continues to collaborate with her internal DE&I work group leaders to craft an even more equitable and inclusive future for her organization, she also focuses on educating and inspiring Pepper’s partners to understand and embrace the true meaning of DE&I. During construction projects, Ashlie also helps project teams to establish and meet goals both on a business/subcontract and workforce level. 

More than just a job, this role reflects Ashlie's passion and commitment to serving the communities in which Pepper builds and also the communities and people touched by various organizations and outreach events she supports throughout the Chicagoland area.  

Tell us why you choose to be a member of PWC Chicago. "I was introduced to PWC through Pepper's HR lead at the time as we held a corporate level of membership with multiple "seats." I began to attend events such as the DEI Candid Convos and found out very quickly that I wanted to be more involved in the like-minded and forward-thinking conversations and events. PWC was founded "to support, advance, and connect women and promote diversity in the AEC and related fields" and this echoes my passion behind what I do and my why."

What other ways are you involved in PWC Chicago? "I am active in the Mentorship Committee: K-12 and Tradeswomen sub-committees, led the DEI Happy Hour conversation with Candace Moore (2023), served as a panelist on the "A Day in the Life of Design and & Construction" at UIC (Fall 2024), participate in youth outreach opportunities when my schedule permits, and Pepper is a sponsor and corporate member."

Tell about when or how you became interested in a career in the AEC industry. "Hurricane Katrina devastated cities along the Gulf Coast impacting so many, including members of my family in New Orleans. It was at this time, August 2005, that I knew I wanted to pursue a career in math/science and ultimately enter a field in which I could make a difference in how the built world can withstand some of the most dangerous elements on this earth, regardless of an area’s resources based on their socioeconomic class. With my Civil Engineering degree concentrating in Environmental Engineering and Construction Management in hand, I began my career in civil site/roadway design before traveling a career path leading me to where I am now."

What advice do you have for other women in the industry? "Despite challenges you may face or naysayers you may come across, keep pushing forward to achieve your goals!"