Empowering the Construction Industry: Getting to Know Kyla Clayson

Kyla Clayson, Director of Construction, MN

The National Association of Women in Construction is celebrating Women in Construction Week (WIC) March 3-9. In its 26th year, WIC celebrates and promotes the role of women in the construction industry. Enclave is proud to have Kyla Clayson leading our team as Director of Construction, MN.

Kyla joined Enclave in 2021 with nearly 20 years of construction experience. Starting with the company as Senior Project Manager, in just under a year, her skills and leadership style led to her promotion as Director of Construction, where she oversee’s Enclave MN projects.

With a degree in psychology, Kyla began her career working in a psychiatric hospital. Shortly after, Kyla’s father connected her with a part-time job at a construction company. Balancing the night shift at the hospital with daytime construction, Kyla was eager to help out wherever and whenever needed.

She worked for that construction company for three years before deciding to obtain a Construction Management degree from the University of Minnesota, solidifying construction as her lifelong career.

“From the instant I stepped onto the job site, I fell in love with the team culture and collaborating with a large group of people all working toward the same goal. It’s what attracted me to the industry, and is something I look forward to everyday.”

- Kyla Clayson, Director of Construction, MN

As Director of Construction, Kyla has led over $200 million in project revenue, with a consistent and approachable leadership style that fuels project success. She motivates a 20-person construction team to think critically and make a meaningful impact across every job, while collaborating and sharing knowledge with Enclave’s in-house development and management groups to position the organization for continued growth and success.

“Kyla's professionalism and in-depth knowledge are recognized by her entire team! As dynamic leader and a woman in a male-dominated field, her passion for the construction industry has inspired me to grow my knowledge.”

- Mindy Hoenie, Enclave Project Specialist

Kyla models success for her team members and future industry leaders, showcasing the strength of women in leadership positions in the construction industry. 

Q & A with Kyla

Q: What’s your advice/encouragement for women interested in going into the industry? 

A: “Don’t be afraid to try different roles and project types. There are so many different options in construction for both, don’t limit yourself to the first thing you try.”

Q: Your favorite Enclave project and why:

A: “I would have to choose Lynvue, our recent mixed-use project in Richfield, MN. It was the first project I started on when I joined Enclave, and at the time was one of our largest projects. It was challenging and pushed me to grow. I enjoyed seeing our team succeed and think outside the box to bring something totally new to the market.”

Q: What you would offer to anyone in the industry?

A: “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Spend as much time on-site as you can. It makes more sense when you see something in person, and you will learn a lot more.”

Q: How DO you build success as a leader:

A: “I tend to be more quiet and introverted. As a leader, I have worked to use this to my advantage. My leadership style has a sense of calmness, it’s not reactionary. I work with a solution-first mindset, solving problems using facts and a positive attitude.”