Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

We continue our celebration of Women In Construction Week with a spotlight on Mary McNamara of Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal Company ! As owner and CEO, Mary has led her company on multiple Zoo projects including habitats for the kangaroos, penguins, and stingrays. Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal is also one of our generous llama habitat sponsors! We asked Mary to share a highlight from 2024 of which she was particularly proud: “The success that I am most proud of over the last year is that of my team. It has been a period of transition as Lenny Austin moved into the role of President, while I remain active in the company operations as owner and CEO. We have built a strong, dedicated team of leaders and skilled crews who are unwavering in their commitment to excellence for not only our customers, but each other and our company's performance. I am proud to say the transition has been seamless and Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal is still leading the pack as we approach our 100th anniversary in 2027.” WIC2025

Gunter Construction Company, which is 100% women-owned by Christina Gunter and Stephanie Gunter, is the company behind our parking lot playground, which has provided many wonderful memories for guests as they enter or exit the Zoo. Gunter is also one of the featured sponsors for the llama habitat! We asked Christina what words of advice she would give to other women who are beginning their journey in the construction field: "Be direct, stick up for yourself, never stop learning. Find Mentors; A strong support system helps you grow and opens new opportunities. Finally, know your presence and contributions are valuable.” #WIC2025

Happy Women in Construction Week! Monday morning we were thrilled to once again host the Kansas City Chapter of the National Association of Women In Construction (NAWIC)’s kick-off breakfast to honor women’s role in the field. More than 40 attendees gathered together at Sobela Ocean Aquarium to begin this celebratory week! Thank you to Gunter Construction Company, CJ Industries, LLC, Mark One Electric, and Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal Company for sponsoring! #WIC2025