Finding Her Voice: Courtney Thorne Builds Confidence in the Field 

As part of Women in Construction Week, we’re proud to spotlight Gilbane Superintendent Courtney Thorne,whose journey into construction wasn’t loud or linear — but it was exactly where she was meant to be.

From changing career paths to stepping into a superintendent role on one of the largest healthcare projects in the country, Courtney’s story is one of growth, confidence, and finding your voice.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in the construction industry?

A: My inspiration wasn’t anything monumental or loud — it was more like something naturally clicking into place. I realized construction was something that genuinely interested me and helped me come out of my shell.

I originally went to college for nursing and worked in healthcare for two years. Over time, I realized it wasn’t the path I wanted to continue. I came across construction management as an opportunity, and it immediately felt right. I interned with Gilbane during my junior year of college and have been here ever since.

Q: What has your experience been like working on the IU Health project? 

A: Working on the IU Health New Downtown Hospital project has been a huge change for me in many ways. It’s the first project I’ve traveled out of state for (I’m originally from Cleveland, Ohio) and it’s also the first multi-billion-dollar hospital project I’ve worked on.

The scale alone has pushed me to grow. I’ve learned so much through this experience, and it has strengthened my confidence in myself and my abilities. It’s also been incredibly rewarding to meet and learn from so many people, whether they’re in the field or in the office. Every day brings an opportunity to gain perspective from someone with a different background or experience.

Q: What makes the IU Health project unique? 

A: Because of the sheer size of the project, it truly feels like a melting pot of people and personalities. The project team is comprised of approximately 100 individuals, and as a joint venture with F.A. Wilhelm, we’re working alongside people we wouldn’t normally have the chance to collaborate with.

That environment has allowed me to learn from a wide range of individuals with different experiences and many years in the industry. Having access to that depth of knowledge, and being able to contribute to it, is something I don’t take for granted.

Q: What advice would you give to women entering the construction workforce? 

A: This applies to anyone, but one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that while you can’t always control a situation or what someone else says, you can control your reaction. There is real power in owning your response.

And don’t be afraid to use your voice. Construction is built on collaboration. Every voice matters, and every perspective has the potential to make a positive impact.

Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of? 

A: Even though I’ve been with Gilbane for six years, I still feel like I’m constantly learning and growing. So far, my biggest accomplishment has been transitioning from a project engineer role into the superintendent career path.

I worked as a project engineer for three years before making that decision. Choosing the superintendent path felt intimidating and a little daunting at the time, but I’m incredibly grateful I made that leap. It challenged me in new ways and has shaped me professionally.

 This Women in Construction Week, we celebrate leaders like Courtney, professionals who continue to grow, challenge themselves, and contribute to a collaborative culture that makes complex projects possible.