Paving the Way: Cheyenne Smock Leads the Charge for Women in Construction
For Cheyenne Smock, construction isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. The UA Little Rock sophomore and president of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) student chapter will graduate in May with an associate degree in construction science, capping off more than a decade-long journey in the construction industry.
As a nontraditional student, Smock, a native of West Fork, Arkansas, spent 10 years working in construction before deciding to return to school. Currently an estimator at Nabholz, she credits her career path to an unexpected opportunity during a difficult time in her life.
“I didn’t choose construction, construction chose me,” Smock said. “After leaving the Navy, I found myself with nothing. My previous boss saw potential in me and took a chance. That’s how I got started, and I’ve never looked back.”
Smock’s experience in construction, from highway inspection at an engineering firm to estimating for one of the state’s largest contractors, has given her a deep understanding of the industry. Now, as president of the AGC student chapter, she is focused on connecting students with industry professionals and creating career opportunities.
“I spend a lot of time making sure students get the connections they need to start careers, not just internships,” she said. “We bring in guest speakers from the industry, partner with professional organizations, and put on networking events. Our students are getting real-world knowledge, not just textbook learning.”
Through AGC, Smock has helped organize student events like trivia nights, crawfish boils, and professional meetups, all designed to introduce students to potential employers. In addition to the student chapter, Smock is also a member of Arkansas AGC, Women in Transportation, Women of Asphalt, National Association of Women in Construction, Construction Leadership Committee, and UA Little Rock’s Industry Advisory Board.
Beyond building career pathways, Smock is also an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness in the construction industry.
“I’m a massive advocate for suicide prevention,” she said. “Mental health struggles are an epidemic in our industry, and we need to start talking about them. One of my biggest goals is to organize a suicide prevention event through AGC. To get people talking is the first step.”
As the first person in her family to attend college and one of the few women in her field, Smock understands the challenges female students face in construction.
“This is a male-dominated world, not just industry,” she said. “Women in construction have to fight for a seat at the table. It’s so important to let girls and women know that their seat is there, and their seat is valid. We’ve worked hard for it, and we deserve to be here.”
For Women in Construction Week, Smock wants to send a message to young women considering a career in the field: keep going.
“You will run into challenges, but it gets better,” she said. “There are people who will stand behind you. This industry is what you make it, and you can make it something beautiful.”
After graduation, Smock plans to continue her career in construction while taking some well-earned time to catch up on reading. She already has more than 120 books on her to-read list.
As she looks forward to finishing her degree, she remains committed to supporting future students and breaking down barriers for women in construction.
“I think Women in Construction Week should be a month, not a week,” she said. “It’s vital to celebrate the women who have stepped out of their comfort zone to take on this industry headfirst. It’s not an easy choice, but it’s one of the most rewarding choices you’ll ever make.”