Women Who Build

From Reception Desk to Project Leader

Kim DeBacco’s career journey reflects decades of growth in the acoustical ceilings industry and a commitment to mentoring women in construction.

By John Wyatt, Editor, Tanja Kern, Strategic Content Editor

Kim DeBacco
Senior Acoustical Estimator/Project Manager, TP Acoustics Inc.

Kim DeBacco has built a remarkable career in the acoustical ceilings and walls industry, earning a reputation as one of TP Acoustics’ top-performing professionals. Her journey began in the mid-1980s, working for a local building supplier while attending college, where she started as a receptionist and material sales associate. Over the next two decades, her responsibilities grew steadily, providing her with a wealth of experience in sales, project coordination, and operational management. Kim’s career path eventually led her to specialize in acoustical divisions within Arizona-based and nationally recognized firms, allowing her to help launch and develop new projects while refining her expertise in the field.

Today, as senior acoustical estimator and project manager at TP Acoustics, Kim manages multi-million-dollar projects that feature complex specialty installations. Her work spans metal ceilings, wood wall systems, structural grid applications, and PET products.

Colleagues often note her exceptional skill in tackling challenging projects, from precise estimating to seamless project execution, and her dedication to delivering excellence consistently sets a high standard for the team.

Kim’s professional accomplishments extend beyond technical expertise. She is a staunch advocate for women in construction, a field historically dominated by men. Throughout her career, she has navigated these challenges with integrity, determination, and leadership, earning respect and inspiring others. Beyond her individual success, Kim prioritizes mentorship, having trained two estimators who now operate independently and contribute meaningfully to TP Acoustics’ ongoing success.

Reflecting on the industry, Kim has witnessed significant cultural shifts. More women are now in project management and supervisory roles, compared to the office-focused positions available when she started. She sees the importance of continued mentorship, networking, and leadership inclusion to further strengthen the industry and make it more accessible for future generations.

Passionate, persistent, and driven, Kim DeBacco embodies the spirit of leadership and teamwork. Her commitment to excellence, support for her colleagues, and efforts to foster diversity in the field make her a standout professional, admired both for her accomplishments and her dedication to lifting others in the wall and ceiling industry.

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John Wyatt is editor of Walls & Ceilings magazine, bringing more than two decades of experience with BNP Media. He joined the company in 2000 as an associate editor, contributing to both Walls & Ceilings and Roofing Contractor before assuming the role of editor in 2008. In addition to his work with the brand, Wyatt collaborates across BNP’s architecture, engineering and construction (A/E/C) portfolio, supporting related publications and initiatives. He can be reached at 248-205-6659 or wyattj@bnpmedia.com.

Tanja Kern covers economic trends and the intersection of architecture, design, and construction for Walls & Ceilings, with an emphasis on the forces reshaping the industry. She develops and amplifies content that connects construction professionals with the intelligence they need to compete and grow.

With more than 20 years of experience, Tanja has written for national business, consumer and trade publications. She holds a Master of Science in magazine publishing from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism. She can be reached at kernt@bnpmedia.com.