Women-led team makes history on Quebec construction site

Ontario Construction News staff writer

A residential development in Quebec’s Laurentians is believed to be the first construction site in the province managed entirely by women in key leadership and technical roles.

The project, Quartier Cinq4, is being built in Prévost by a female-led team that includes site supervisor Roxane Gaudreau-Parent from the engineering firm Équipe Laurence, working on behalf of project promoter Anne-Philippe Lemaire and general contractor Joanie Paquette of DUO Entrepreneur général.

Also on the job are forewoman Sophie Ouellet of Sophie Ouellet Excavation and machine operator Érika Provost — making up a five-woman leadership team that industry observers say is without precedent in Quebec’s construction sector.

“This is the first time, at least in the modern history of Quebec construction, that we’ve seen an entire site run by women,” said Alexandre Latour, CEO of Équipe Laurence. “What’s remarkable is how well it’s going — they’re executing flawlessly.”

The 18-unit development on Rue du Manse is being marketed as an upscale, family-oriented enclave surrounded by nature, designed for buyers seeking both tranquility and convenience. But it’s the team behind the build that is attracting attention from within the industry.

Project promoters Lemaire and Paquette say the team is helping break down long-standing gender barriers in construction.

“This shows that a traditionally male-dominated profession can be led with skill and originality by women,” they said in a joint statement.

Latour called the women’s work a “testament to excellence,” and suggested the project could serve as a model for a more inclusive construction industry.

Beyond its groundbreaking team, Quartier Cinq4 is also being positioned as a premium residential community, with proximity to essential services and outdoor amenities, blending modern living with the natural beauty of the Laurentians.