Movers & Shakers Spotlight – Ariel McGee

Describe your role to someone who is not familiar with the construction industry or Colas USA.
I lead the PMO team in the management of a portfolio of projects – from software development to implementation – across several integrated Colas applications.

What has been your favorite project so far?
So far, my favorite project has been the implementation of ColasWay (our Human Resources Information System, which was branded as Pathways at the time) for North America and building the integration to JDE. I also have enjoyed continuing to see the growth of the system and assisting with the convergence as a global system for the Colas Group, which allowed me to work with our headquarters office in France.

What motivates you to wake up and go to work every day?
I’m motivated by knowing I make a difference, whether it is guiding our project teams or ensuring we are meeting our users’ needs through completing projects.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Both of my parents were recreational pilots, so growing up I loved getting the opportunity to travel – flying to air shows, trying new restaurants, or finding unique little towns to explore.

From her nomination:
“Ariel is an example of professionalism. She is a great influencer and influences people beyond just her team. She has great organizational skills and always a positive impact to people around her. Ariel is a leader because she listens and also contributes. Bringing the two together into a vision and being able to clearly communicate the vision is why she is a good leader. Ariel is always working for the benefit of all, our customers and employees. She’s not concerned with self-promotion or guarding her territory. She actively participates, takes responsibility and is accountable. She’s a great example to our employees and her peers.”