Khara Hillis
Vice President/Project Manager/Estimator
Konell Construction & Demolition Corp.
Sandy, Oregon
What was your first job in construction?
My first job in construction was for a small, one-person, owner-operated firm. I started out as a truck driver and laborer, and eventually started running equipment. Since the company was so small, I was able to learn all aspects of the business, including the bookkeeping and payroll.
What I learned most was that you had to step up and participate in roles that were not really yours in order to keep the business operational. Just because a certain task is not in your job title doesn’t mean you can’t help out in other areas if you have time. There is significant value to learning the functionality of other roles within a company.
Given your three-headed title, what is an average workday like for you?
The majority of my time is consumed with project management, coordinating work, scheduling and estimating changes to project design. The balance of my day is spent analyzing profitability and looking for ways to improve efficiencies.
What’s the last TV show you binged?
The last show I binged was “Fixer Upper.” I usually do not watch much TV, but this one has me hooked. I think I enjoyed it because it is so similar to what we do in commercial construction. It’s great to see how the challenges of construction can be entertaining.
What is your favorite project that you’ve worked on?
The Oregon State Mental Hospital replacement was my favorite project. Our scope was to demo a portion of the structure, complete structural upgrades under the existing structure and move an entire building—all while installing a new infrastructure. The challenges of keeping the historical elements in place as well as having an active facility were intense.
This project had over a hundred years of stories to tell, and I found that really intriguing. For me, the value of the project is in the challenge. The more complex, the more I love it.
Do you have any advice for young people considering a career in construction?
Do it! Start at the bottom if you have to and work your way up. Construction is an excellent career path that does not require a college degree, and it can pay well. Just remember, you get out of it what you put into it. Make the effort.
Coffee or tea?
Coffee is my preference. Half decaf with cream.
Are you feeling optimistic about the construction market?
I am not feeling entirely optimistic. 2024 is an election year, which tends to be a more cautious year for spending.
