From Engineer to Builder: My Journey as a Chinese Woman in Canadian Construction

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Hi, I’m Eva — a licensed Professional Engineer in Alberta, and the founder of Raynow Homes, a Calgary-based construction and real estate development company.

This is the story of how I went from working in oil & gas to designing and building homes across Alberta, starting with just one goal: to build a “retirement rental” for passive income.

From Engineer to Builder: My Journey as a Chinese Woman in Canadian Construction

📘 The Beginning

In 2010, I came to Alberta with a full scholarship to study engineering at the University of Alberta. After graduation, I joined a top-tier engineering and construction firm in the energy sector and later earned my P.Eng license. Everything was on track — until I started asking myself:

“What does freedom look like?”

I thought I’d build a small rental to retire early and enjoy life as a “landlord lady.” But once I stepped into the world of construction, I realized — this industry is both fascinating and full of problems that need fixing.

🔨 My First Project

In 2019, I began building my own rental in Banff, a highly regulated area inside a national park. As I worked with trades, designers, and inspectors, I discovered three pain points:

  • Designers were too artistic — ignoring practical constraints.

  • Engineers stuck to theory — struggling with real-world problem-solving.

  • Builders varied wildly in quality — fancy facades, poor construction.

With my background in design, management, and communication, I knew I could do better.

So, I did.

👷 Challenges as a Woman in Construction

When I first started visiting job sites, I felt completely out of place. I was often the only woman — and a Chinese immigrant to boot. I was underestimated, talked down to, and sometimes mistaken for an assistant or translator.

But instead of pushing back, I asked questions, solved problems, and earned trust. I used my technical edge to help builders on-site — and they began to treat me as a real partner.

Over time, I realized my “weakness” was actually a strength:

  • I listened to families and tenants more carefully.

  • I designed spaces that reflected real use, not just aesthetics.

  • I helped investor clients balance rentability, resale value, and maintenance.

These differences helped me build a loyal client base and a growing reputation.

🏗️ Fast Forward to Now

In 4 years, Raynow Homes has:

  • Completed over 50 rental units in Calgary and Banff

  • Renovated more than 10 existing homes

  • Delivered townhouses, duplexes, garage suites, basement suites, and even custom homes

  • Grown from one woman’s side project to a licensed, trusted Alberta builder

We now serve families, investors, and developers across Calgary, Banff, and Canmore — offering full-service construction, CMHC-backed rental development, and project design support.

💬 Why I’m Sharing This

Construction is still a tough industry — especially for newcomers, women, and immigrants. But with the right tools, mindset, and support, I believe more people can thrive here.

That’s why I’ve decided to start blogging: to share lessons learned, help others avoid mistakes, and open doors that were once closed to me.

If you’re interested in:

  • Building your first rental or custom home

  • Investing in Calgary or Banff property

  • Learning about CMHC multi-family programs

  • Or just following a real woman’s journey in a male-dominated field…

📩 Follow me or get in touch — I’d love to connect.