Grisel Gray
Director of Preconstruction & Estimating, Gilmore Construction Corporation
I started my career with one of the most notable and recognized general contractors in the country. Turner Construction. That adventure led me to years in Preconstruction working on some of the most phenomenal projects in the area including interior renovations, K-12, technology, healthcare, aviation, sport fields and arenas, private medical practices, data centers, high-rise construction, and battery production facilities. As I developed into a preconstruction professional, I realized that our work in construction does not stop at what we do for our general contractors, designers, or trade partners. It goes beyond to the people who support us every day. Our communities.
I was born in small town in El Salvador, in Central America. I remember and continue to embrace the struggles and the constant survival skills that instilled in me a sense of pride in our Hispanic community. I am proud to be a Latina adopted by someone who took at shot at me when I did not have anyone else in my corner. Ever since I got to America, I have worked hard to create a legacy for myself, those who walk next to me, and for future generations. I keep my story and upbringing close to me and continue to use it as my compass for how I drive myself in this industry, and the efforts I put into growing and nurturing our Hispanic community.
Throughout my years at Turner, I developed a passion for all things community. I wanted to make a difference in this industry, so I joined the Hispanic Contractors of Colorado in 2019. I attended regular member meetings and participated in all events and fundraising efforts. While trying to donate more of my time to my community, I asked my friends in the industry to help me get more involved with the HCC. Enrique Elizondo, Ale Spray, and James Martinez, great advocates for the HCC, invited me and others to participate in the Young Leaders Group for the HCC. This experience led me to meet incredible people who are now great friends and consider family. My involvement with the HCC did not stop there – I began taking on some volunteered roles for event planning and teaching opportunities in Spanish.
In 2024, I was given the amazing opportunity to take on a new challenge and became the Director of Preconstruction for Gilmore Construction. An incredible company that focuses on not only providing outstanding results in the construction work they do, but also making an impact by working closely with small business throughout Colorado. This opportunity has only opened the doors for me and the passion I have for providing opportunities to those who have created a name for themselves through hard work and perseverance, just like the rest of our Hispanic community. My work with the HCC has continued to grow and with the support from Gilmore Construction, I know the opportunities will be endless. To be able to make an impact in our industry by giving back is something I look forward to.
HCC Experience:
- Future Leaders Committee – Member 2019-2021
- Women in Leadership Committee – Member 2020-Present
- Aviation Committee – Member 2019-2020
- Marketing, Membership and Events Committee – Member 2024-Present
Other Relevant Experience
- Chanda Plan Foundation – Board Member 2019-2023
- Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce Education & Workforce Committee – Member 2021-2023
- CU Boulder – Mentor and Lecturer 2020 – Present
- Denver Public Schools – Mentor 2021 – Present
- ACE Mentorship Program – Mentor 2020 – Present
- Mosaic Resource Group (Turner) – Co-Founder 2019 – 2024
- Community & Citizenship (Turner) – Member 2018 – 2024 • The Women Resource Group (Turner) – Member 2021 – 2023
"In my 16 years as a member and active participant in the Hispanic Contractors of Colorado (HCC), I have never met a more suitable candidate for the board of directors than Grisel Gray. She embodies everything that this organization strives for, consistently advocating for diversity, inclusion, and opportunities for small, minority, and women-owned businesses in the construction industry. Grisel has been a pivotal force within HCC, particularly as part of the first cohort of the HCC Future Leaders Program—a pilot initiative that launched just before the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the hurdles of navigating virtual meetings and adjusting to a new work paradigm, she thrived, demonstrating the resilience and leadership required in those uncertain times. Her dedication extends well beyond her professional role. Grisel is a fierce advocate for creating a more equitable and inclusive industry. She actively participates in HCC meetings, hosting outreach events and creating connections with diverse businesses. She volunteers for the HCC Contractor Academy, where she teaches estimating classes in Spanish, empowering small and diverse businesses to thrive. In addition to her contributions to HCC, Grisel's community involvement is exemplary: CU Boulder Educator Mentor: Since 2020, Grisel has mentored future construction professionals, guiding students with her vast industry knowledge. Denver Public Schools Coach Mentoring Program: She has mentored K-12 students since 2020, helping to inspire the next generation of construction leaders. University of Nebraska-Lincoln Women in Construction Management Group: Grisel co-founded and led this student-led group, further advocating for women in the industry. Chanda Plan Foundation: As a board member from 2019 to January 2024, Grisel supported healthcare equity, showcasing her commitment to community and social justice. Her deep connection to her Salvadoran heritage and her passion for promoting small and diverse businesses make her a tireless advocate for the HCC mission. She’s not only dedicated to the success of her projects but also to the creation of generational wealth in disadvantaged communities. Grisel’s experience, resilience, and unwavering commitment make her an ideal candidate for the HCC Board of Directors. Her influence will undoubtedly benefit our organization and its members for years to come. I strongly recommend your vote for Grisel Gray to join the HCC Board of Directors."
— Enrique Elizondo, Gilmore Construction Corporation