The Story Behind Her Success

The Story Behind Her Success


Kelly Cantley: Senior Vice President, Bozzuto Construction bozzuto.com -246

September 28, 2023

Focus on what you can control.  You can’t control the outcome, but you can control the process. -Kelly Cantley


How many women are leaders in commercial construction?   The answer is: not enough!  Meet Kelly Cantley, Senior Vice President of Bozzuto Construction Company www.bozzuto.com.

Born and raised in the town of Bluff City, Tennessee, population 1500 by a trailblazing school teacher and a 36-year Army veteran, Kelly is blazing her own trail in a field where less than 10% of women are finding their footing.  A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Kelly was nominated by former Vice President & Nobel Peace Prize winner, Al Gore, Kelly got her Bachelor of Science Degree in Aeronautical Engineering at the Academy and served as an Officer in the Civil Engineer Corps.   Her transition from the military to construction was smoother than you might think, aided by Kelly’s Masters in Business Administration from Johns Hopkins University and a belief in the theory that success in these fields is rooted in “process and procedure.”   Kelly’s big job at Bozzuto carries big weight. She’s responsible for new business, acquisition, planning, and implementation of new work.  A family-owned business, founded in 1988, Bozzuto maintains a rich culture, steeped in the firm belief that “everyone deserves safe shelter and sanctuary.”  Kelly puts these beliefs into practice as an advocate for philanthropic organizations like Urban Land Institute, Women’s Housing Coalition, ACE Mentoring Program and Jubilee Housing.  Her best advice for women on the rise in construction?  “Find your voice and speak up, especially in difficult situations. Take your blinders off and don’t be afraid to try new things.”   For an inspiring look into the life of a trailblazer, just hit that download button. #womeninconstruction #USNavalAcademy #construction #trailblazer