Women in Construction: Sirobè Carstafhnur, leasing project manager, US General Services Administration

“Historically, black people have been in spaces where our culture, traditions, wants and needs were not represented at the table – I wanted to change that,” says Sirobè Carstafhnur, leasing project manager at the US General Services Administration (GSA), when asked what drew her into the sector.

Carstafhnur’s path into and through the industry has been a varied one that began with a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Mississippi State University.

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“After working for a few years, I returned to school to earn a master of science in urban planning and policy design from Politecnico di Milano in Milan, Italy,” she says.

“I chose Milan to experience life in a city that balances modernisation and evolution while preserving its traditions and uniqueness.”

Now, with nearly 20 years of experience in design and construction, Carstafhnur plays a crucial role in federal leasing.

“I oversee the entire process of acquiring and managing lease agreements for government agencies, including identifying space needs, negotiating lease terms, managing project timelines and ensuring compliance with GSA regulations,” she explains.

Her work involves balancing financial oversight with real estate expertise while co-ordinating with landlords, tenants and various stakeholders. 

Her career progression reflects a broad skillset, having held roles from project architect to senior project manager.

Learn every role, not just yours. I’ve stood on scaffolding with bricklayers, mirrored inspectors and shadowed accounting managers 

Sirobè Carstafhnur, leasing project manager, US General Services Administration

A key mentor was Ken Cook, her former supervisor at the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center.

“Without his mentorship and advocacy, I wouldn’t have had many of the professional opportunities that shaped my journey,” she acknowledges.

“He made sure I had a seat at the table and encouraged me to speak up and own my expertise – especially as a woman in the industry.”

Despite her success, she has faced challenges along the way. “One of the biggest challenges was falling out of love with the industry and questioning whether my work was making the impact I had envisioned,” she reflects.

“I found my way back by mentoring young black men and women who sought advice about careers in architecture. Mentorship became my way of reigniting that passion.”

Among the projects she has worked on, the Ralph Lauren expansion at Starrett-Lehigh in 2018 stands out. “The deadline was impossibly tight, so much so that I was supposed to be on vacation but ended up doing drawings on the plane!” she recalls. “We had an incredible team working tirelessly day and night, and we delivered. Who wouldn’t go above and beyond for Ralph Lauren?”

Another memorable project was the Jackson Convention Complex, her first major project after graduating: “I was entrusted with designing the interiors while the rest of the team focused on the facade. It was Mississippi’s first-ever convention centre – a milestone for the state and a historic moment for my home. It felt like my love letter to Mississippi.”

On the built environment industry as a whole, Carstafhnur asserts: “To attract more women, we need clear pathways for career advancement and a greater focus on retention. Incorporating flexible work schedules and highlighting more women who hold executive roles will showcase that success in this industry isn’t an either-or choice – you can lead, innovate and still maintain a fulfilling life beyond work.”

Speaking as a role model for other women, she says: “I maintain an open-door policy, where anyone – especially women – can come to me for guidance, support or simply a space to breathe and be heard. Women in this industry wear many hats, balancing professional demands with personal responsibilities, and I strive to be a safe space where they can seek advice or just pause and recharge.”

When asked about her heroines, Carstafhnur names Mellody Hobson. “She is a brilliant powerhouse who has mastered the art of leadership while consistently lifting others up along the way,” she says. “She embodies the kind of influence I aspire to – not just about success, but about creating opportunities for those who come next.”

To women entering the built environment industry, Carstafhnur advises: “Learn every role, not just yours. I’ve stood on scaffolding with bricklayers, mirrored inspectors and shadowed accounting managers. Understanding how all the pieces fit together makes you more knowledgeable, adaptable and invaluable. Your expertise will make you a stronger leader and team member.”