Construction News and Blog | Power Design

Stronger Together: Sabrina’s Approach to Design and Operations

Written by Power Design | Feb 20, 2025 3:37:30 PM

Great design takes dynamic and strategic teamwork, and as Power Design’s Vice President of Engineering & VDC Operations, Sabrina Caras is helping to continuously strengthen collaboration across our teams to build smarter, faster, and better! By focusing on optimizing workflows, streamlining communication, and ensuring our designs translate seamlessly into the field, Sabrina is playing a key role in evolving how our Engineering and VDC teams work together to shape future skylines.

 

Since joining our #PDIFamily in 2023, Sabrina has focused on efficiency and fostering a culture where our teams thrive. With her perspective and passion for teamwork, she’s helping to drive excellence while ensuring every team member has the tools and support they need to succeed. As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry and part of our Women’s Leadership Council, she is committed to creating an environment where collaboration and creativity flourish, and where every team member has the opportunity to grow and contribute.

 

Check out what she had to say about her career journey, vision for the future of design, and how teamwork is the key to success!

 

How did you get involved in the construction industry?

 

"I spent my entire professional career with AT&T before joining Power Design, starting as a support representative in a technical role and eventually moving into project and program management positions. During this time, I also became a board member of the Children’s Cancer Center, where I connected with a fellow board member who is a business partner at Kast Construction.

He recognized that my skills were transferable and could make a significant impact in the construction industry! My experiences at AT&T overseeing large-scale teams, projects, and clients, often spanning multiple sites, helped me develop a deep understanding of operational excellence, risk management, and cross-functional collaboration. So while I didn't bring a background in construction with me, I was excited to make the transition and confident in my ability to help our Design Division succeed!"

 

What excited you most about joining Power Design?

 

"After working mostly remotely at AT&T, I missed the energy and connection of working in person with my teams. I'm a huge advocate for giving out positive energy and the impact it has on helping us grow into the best version of ourselves, and it's more difficult for that to translate behind a screen.

Coincidentally, Power Design was the first job I sent my resume out for and it truly was exactly what I was searching for. When I interviewed on the GRID, I immediately felt the strong, team-driven culture that I knew would help me foster strong relationships, communicate effectively, and drive solutions to continue to set our Engineering and VDC Teams apart as the best designers in the industry!"

 

What's something people would be surprised to learn about you?

 

"I am half-Chinese and can speak Mandarin. I was raised by a strong, single Asian mother who spoke very little English when she came to the United States. She was a successful entrepreneur, which shaped who I am and how I navigate life with values of resilience, perseverance, and hard work."

 

As a member of the Women’s Leadership Council, how do you see the role of women evolving in construction, Engineering, and VDC?

 

"It’s an honor to be part of the Women’s Leadership Council and surrounded by incredible, strong female leaders in a traditionally male-dominant industry. We’ve set three key pillars—recruit, grow, and retain—and have initiatives in place to move the needle in each area. It starts with recruiting, and making sure we’re visible at job fairs and trade schools so women know they can thrive in this industry.

Once here, we focus on growth through mentorship and identifying high performers, ensuring they have opportunities to advance. It’s important for me to ensure that we create an environment for women where we can support and encourage each other."

 

What advice do you have for women aspiring to reach leadership roles in industries that are traditionally made up of men?

 

"It all comes back to believing in yourself. Show your value by offering thoughtful solutions, being a team player, stepping up to lead when opportunities arise, and always leading with kindness. Your impact will show!"

 

Sabrina’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, strong leadership, and the impact of teamwork. With a focus on process improvement, technology, and teamwork, she’s helping to drive the continued success of our Design Division as we take our projects to the next level year after year.

Want to be part of a team that’s shaping the future of design? Explore our career opportunities and see how you can build your future with us!