McKissack & McKissack, a prominent Washington D.C.-based construction management & design firm, has effectively made its mark on well-known landmarks such as the Smithsonian African American Museum of History and Culture, and memorials of Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson.
At the helm of this successful company is CEO, Deryl McKissack. She champions efficiency, impressive project portfolio, and a firm commitment to environmental sustainability. Over the years, McKissack & McKissack has worked on prominent tasks such as modernizing the George Washington University campus and launching green initiatives within federal structures.
Fascinatingly, the McKissack family’s construction lineage can be traced back to 1790, with an expert brick maker named Moses, who originally came to America as a slave. His descendents, including the tenacious Deryl, have carried this legacy straight into the 21st century, making the McKissack name synonymous with excellence in construction and design.
Deryl, who founded her own firm in 1990, has been a now-stopping force in advocating for the representation of African American women in top construction roles. Under her leadership, the company manages projects worth $15 billion and generates yearly revenues of around $25 to $30 million.
McKissack’s legacy: Sustainable construction and diversity
That’s not to mention the work they’ve done in Chicago and Baltimore, across various industrial sectors, from infrastructure development to eco-friendly construction.
Ditching an already successful engineering career to start her own business, McKissack overcame initial challenges through effective networking. This strategy led her to secure her company’s first project from her alma mater. Her persistence and dedication to long hours helped the company build a vast portfolio in a very short time.
McKissack values the lasting impact her company’s projects have had on individuals and communities, despite the professional challenges faced by African American women in the global construction industry. Working with her sister to tackle these issues head-on, McKissack is also actively promoting diversity and inclusion through empowering underrepresented groups. This continual effort is a testament to her resilience and visionary leadership.
Ultimately, McKissack’s vision extends beyond her personal success, championing the importance of representation in the industry. She hopes to inspire and motivate more African Americans to achieve success within the construction field, promoting a diverse and inclusive industry.
