Sarah Nichols
Director of Operations and Estimating, Robert A. Aird, Inc.

From hospitality to hard hats, Sarah’s career has been defined by evolution, commitment and legacy. As a second-generation construction professional, she carries forward the vision and foundation built by her parents, Rob and Judy Aird, who have led their family business for more than 50 years. Yet, her path to construction wasn’t immediate. She spent 17 years honing her skills in the hospitality industry before answering a deeper calling: to contribute to, and eventually lead, the family business. 

Starting as an administrative assistant, she quickly immersed herself in the complexities of exterior building envelopes, taking on roles ranging from project engineer to HR and safety manager. Today, as Director of Operations and Estimating, she orchestrates the company’s day-to-day while shaping its long-term strategy—bringing both precision and passion to every project. 

Her professional achievements reflect not only her dedication but also her pioneering spirit. In 2017, she became the first woman elected to the Board of Directors of the EIFS Industry Members Association, serving as the first Chairwoman of the Contractors Committee. Her work advanced education, quality standards, and national advocacy within the EIFS industry. She received the EIMA Member of the Year Award in 2019, and in 2023, was recognized as a leading woman in construction. Her leadership continues through the Maryland Center for Construction Education and Innovation, where she serves on the Board and Executive Committee, supporting workforce development and creating new pathways for women entering the trades. 

Her vision for the wall and ceiling industry is both forward-looking and grounded in experience. She sees a future defined by advanced building science, durable systems, and a professional workforce trained for excellence. She notes the cultural shift toward leadership that values growth, trust, and inclusion—a stark contrast to the transactional culture she first encountered. Women now have significantly greater opportunity than in previous decades, and she actively advocates for mentorship, education, and visibility for underrepresented groups. 

For Sarah, construction is about the craft, the teamwork and the tangible impact of every project, which inspire her daily. She emphasizes leadership through service, accountability, and transformation, fostering growth while honoring the legacy of the past. 

Her advice to other women climbing the career ladder is simple but powerful: “Step outside your comfort zone. Growth rarely comes from staying where things feel safe or familiar. Trust yourself, speak up, and take on challenges before you feel fully ready. Your perspective matters,” she says. 

Above all, she is committed to leaving the industry better than she found it—through succession planning, mentoring, advocacy, and innovation. Carrying forward a 50-year family legacy while helping shape the future of construction is not just her responsibility, it is her privilege. 

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