Paula Shinners marks a decade at Conack, reflecting on growth and women’s advancement in construction

As Paula Shinners, Conack’s Director of Communications, celebrates her ten-year anniversary with the company, she reflects on her journey and the significant transformations she has witnessed.

In 2015, during her initial meeting with joint Managing Directors Kieran Cusack and Tom O'Connor, she recalls asking about Conack's reputation.

She was told the company was a small, local construction firm eager to gain recognition. At that time, Conack had a team of 30 employees, male, with only one female staff member.

Fast forward to today, and Conack has grown to employ over 200 professionals across four offices. Women are now at the heart of the company's success, holding crucial roles across various departments.

From plant management, overseeing company-owned and hired equipment, to leadership positions such as Senior Estimators, Quantity Surveyors, Health & Safety Officers, and HR Managers, women are making substantial contributions.

Even in traditionally male-dominated fields like crane operation, women are excelling, which reflects Conack's ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Corporate Support Services Building in Carlow, completed for our client SETU (South East Technological University) Ireland

A key factor in Conack’s success is its focus on supporting the well-being of its employees. Paula emphasizes that the company values both professional and personal growth, fostering a work environment where each person is encouraged to thrive.

This is evident in Conack’s initiatives, including regular ‘Toolbox Talks’ on mental and physical health and a healthy eating program that provides fresh seasonal fruit each week.

Employees also have access to confidential discussions with trained mental health counselors, creating a supportive atmosphere within the company.

Paula, originally from Limerick City, has witnessed the region’s evolving skyline, with major projects such as 1BQ, Colbert Station, Crescent Comprehensive, and Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh being completed in 2024.

Conack’s reputation for excellence extends beyond construction, with the company’s award-winning Health & Safety Department and its projects receiving recognition at prestigious industry events for the Moxy Hotel Dublin and Cork, Cherrywood TC1 Dublin, and many others.

Looking ahead, the company's project pipeline remains strong for 2025 and 2026. We are currently on site at the Dexcom Stadium for Connacht Rugby in Galway, and construction has begun on the Marina Depot in Cork, with other projects due to commence over the coming weeks, both locally and throughout the rest of the country.

The Education Sector is one key contributor to Conack's success, where Paula notes the increasing adoption of modular forms of construction.

“We’re seeing more schools opting for modular setups, which are becoming the preferred choice due to their efficiency. Offsite construction has essentially become a plug-and-play system, making installations seamless.”

With nearly 30 years of industry experience, Paula is optimistic about the future for women in construction. 

“The sky is the limit,” she says.

Conack’s partnerships with educational institutions like TUS and UL, along with collaborations with the Regional Skills Network and other training bodies, ensure equal opportunities for students and graduates, regardless of gender.

“Every brick laid and every beam raised is a testament to the collective creativity and dedication of the people involved,” Paula reflects.

She also emphasizes how construction shapes communities, creating jobs and fostering economic growth.

“Construction provides spaces where people live, work, and play, and a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for people.”

Organizations like Women in Construction Ireland (WICI) are working to support women through tailored training, mentorship, and advocacy.

Paula’s leadership and impact were recognized in 2024 when she was named a finalist for the Women in Construction Awards, a testament to her contributions to the sector. Paula is grateful for the support of her female colleagues.

“Conack wouldn’t be where it is today without the dedication and talent of the incredible women I work with every day,” she
says.

She also highlights the vital role of the company’s front-office team, singling out Mary and Sheila, both approaching their ten-year milestones, for their instrumental role in keeping Conack running smoothly.

Ranked 13th in Irish Building Magazine’s list of Ireland’s Top 50 Main Contractors for 2024 and the recipient of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2022, Conack continues to grow and succeed.

“I’ve been personally involved in every step of this journey—and it remains an exciting one,” Paula reflects.

Paula’s journey and the achievements of professionals like her not only highlight the indispensable role of women in construction but also serve as an inspiration for future generations.

“None of this would be possible without the incredible support of both my female and male colleagues,” Paula concludes.

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