Special to Ontario Construction News
Melissa Ruck, associate director, operations at Gillam, has been recognized with the Field Operations Excellence Award, one of the top honours presented through the Women in Construction Awards by the Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA).
The award recognizes outstanding performance, professionalism and leadership in field operations, celebrating individuals who consistently deliver high-quality work, navigate complex project challenges, and contribute to safe and efficient job sites.
Ruck accepted the honour at the annual Women in Construction Gala held at Universal EventSpace in Vaughan, where she reflected on the people who have supported her nearly two-decade career in the construction industry.
“Thank you to my mentors, sponsors, colleagues and friends who have gotten me to where I am. Your support over my last almost 20 years in the industry is so greatly appreciated,” said Ruck. “Construction is an industry that challenges you every day – and field operations especially requires resilience, accountability, teamwork and the ability to stay calm under pressure.”
Ruck joined Gillam 13 years ago and has advanced through a series of leadership roles, including Project Coordinator, Assistant Project Manager and Project Manager, before being promoted to Associate Director, Operations. She is the first woman to serve on Gillam’s Operations Management Team.
Throughout her career, she has helped lead several significant projects, including the major expansion and renovation of Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie, the Barrie-Simcoe Emergency Services Campus, and LOFT Bradford House, a supportive housing development for seniors.
Known for her balance of creativity, collaboration and structure, Ruck has become a trusted leader within Gillam’s project management team and a key resource for both day-to-day operations and complex project challenges.
Her contributions have also helped improve operational efficiency across the organization. Through a hands-on and analytical approach, she has streamlined workflows, developed and implemented a more robust cost-coding structure, collaborated with software providers to customize reporting systems, and provided ongoing training and support to operations staff.
In her acceptance speech, Ruck said she was honoured to receive the award and proud to be part of an industry that continues to create more opportunities for women in leadership and field operations.
“What makes this recognition so meaningful is knowing it reflects not only the work I’ve done, but the incredible teams, mentors, trade partners, and colleagues I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside,” she said. “One thing this industry has taught me is that leadership isn’t about being the loudest person in the room, it’s about building trust, solving problems collaboratively and consistently showing up for your team.”
As a Lean and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) specialist, Ruck focuses on achieving best-value solutions through collaboration among clients, design teams and construction partners. She is frequently recognized by clients for her practical approach, problem-solving abilities and commitment to project success.
“Melissa sets the gold standard at Gillam,” said Craig Lesurf, President of Gillam Group. “Her leadership, strategic vision and dedication have been instrumental to our team’s success.”
The recognition highlights Ruck’s contributions to the construction industry and her role in advancing excellence in field operations while helping pave the way for future generations of women in construction.
