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Meet Lizabeth Theiss, Executive Leadership at DPR Construction in Nashville.
Tell us about yourself.
I serve on DPR Nashville’s leadership team, bringing a strong connection to the commercial real estate community and playing an essential role in developing DPR’s strong presence in Nashville. I have been integral in the built environment for 30 years and have seen the continued growth of Nashville and middle TN. My engagement not only includes business development efforts locally and across the country but also workforce strategy, employee development, and inclusivity, as I have worked diligently to expand the positive aspects of being a woman in the construction industry.
Tell us about your business/industry.
DPR Construction is a self-performing general contractor that specializes in being a technical builder in five core markets: advanced technology, commercial, healthcare, higher education, and life sciences. In an industry that has been the same for centuries, we like to work differently. For example, we believe in shared leadership. That means no one is limited by job title or role. We trust our people to make the right decisions and to improve and advance our frameworks and processes. No one has a monopoly on good ideas.
What should we know about you?
I am fierce. Not just in the competitive way but also when it comes to doing the right thing. I have a passion for the construction industry and the character of people that bring structures to life. Everyone from land acquisition to design to occupancy after it is built becomes a relationship I value. Thirty years of navigating both internal and external clients has taught me to be a consistent voice in standing up for those that need to be heard, whether that is the client or my team. And I’m passionate about Nashville and our region. There’s no place like it in the world.
How did you get to your current position?
It’s been a lot of hard work, thick skin, and grit, but primarily, listening to others. I have learned to share my value not only in action but also in conversation. If we do not tell leaders/owners what our goals are, how do we expect to get there? I’ve set my goals one step at a time and am fortunate enough to now serve as a leader that encourages people to have a voice. This industry is especially hard on women, and being consistent with both integrity and my voice is what I feel has gotten me to where I am today.
What value do you see in Chamber involvement?
Other than having a passion for what I do professionally, I have the same for sharing the culture of Nashville. It’s great to meet people and businesses that are considering the area and sharing what Nashville provides not only for business but also personally to their employees. It’s similar to putting on an economic development hat and helping connect all the dots. Nashville has an energy that is contagious; once you’ve shared it, they’re hooked.
How is your company recruiting and retaining talent?
DPR is a great place to try something new. We’re a place for curious minds. We think our people, in all roles, have ideas that can make today’s projects better for our customers and help us drive the construction industry forward in the future. To that end, we’re a place where people who might not even normally consider construction as a career can have a home. We will help you find the career path that’s right for you. We’ll support you in exploring new opportunities across a growing portfolio of clients and projects.
What makes Nashville a great place to do business?
Nashville has a business community that is much like being named the friendliest city in America. People are always willing to help, advise, or support. While competitors may seem adversarial in most other communities, that is not Nashville. We truly are friends with our competitors and are genuine in our support so all succeed. Knowing the region does so well due to diversity of industries, it makes no sense to not be cooperative for the good of all. The saying “all ships rise with the tide” strikes a chord with me.
What is the future of AI and new digital technologies in your industry?
It’s an exciting time to join the construction industry, as AI is dramatically changing how projects are planned and delivered. There are so many opportunities to continue to advance technology, driving value for customers and employees, especially in ways that can increase efficiency of project delivery through advancements such as autonomous labor scheduling, prefabrication, and contractual risk identification. Emerging tools including AI will transform the industry and the way we approach our work.
What do you like to do in your spare time outside of work? Where will we find you on the weekends?
Most know this about me, but you will find me on the water. Rowing in my scull is my happy place. I get out first thing in the morning on the weekends (weather permitting) and watch the sunrise while getting in a workout that clears my mind. I’ve promoted the sport for over 15 years and hope to someday see the construction of a boathouse on the river in downtown Nashville.