What does it take to thrive as a woman in the male-dominated world of construction and government contracting? Is it confidence? Is it knowledge? Is it timing? According to Lourdes Martin Rosa, President of Government Business Solutions (GBS), the true formula is deeper—it’s built on leadership, preparation, and purpose. In one of the most powerful and insightful episodes from Season 1 of Thriving in Construction, The Podcast, host Patricia Bonilla explores Lourdes’ remarkable story of perseverance, impact, and building a multi-million dollar business in the federal contracting space. From navigating cultural barriers as a young immigrant in Miami to advocating for equity in procurement for women-owned construction firms, Lourdes offers real strategies and hard-earned wisdom for any woman looking to succeed in construction, small business development, or government contracting today.
🔑 Key Highlights from the Episode
💼 Sales Built Her Foundation:
Lourdes’ early sales experience shaped her business acumen. She credits her first sales training in her early 20s for helping her develop the persuasive skills and leadership mindset that still guide her business today.
🚀 From Consultant to Government Game-Changer:
Lourdes launched GBS in 2003 after recognizing that too many small and minority-owned businesses lacked access to the tools and knowledge needed to win federal contracts. Today, her clients have landed multimillion-dollar deals.
🧠 Confidence Is Built Through Preparation:
Whether consulting with agencies or coaching entrepreneurs, Lourdes emphasizes that confidence comes from knowing your value—and doing your homework.
🤝 Women Must Support Women:
She advocates for more collaboration, less competition among women in construction. “You may be strong in horizontal construction, and another woman strong in vertical. Together, you can win design-build projects.”
📈 3 Keys to Thriving in Federal Contracting:
- Don’t rely on federal contracts as your only revenue stream—plan for the long sales cycle.
- Target specific agencies aligned with your strengths.
- Build relationships with mentors, teaming partners, and small business advocates within agencies.
🎙️ Why This Conversation Still Matters
This episode is packed with timeless insight for women entrepreneurs, construction leaders, and small business owners ready to navigate federal contracting with intention and integrity.
Whether you’re just starting or scaling your firm, Lourdes reminds us that confidence isn’t born—it’s built.
📢 Listen to the full conversation on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
Or watch the full interview recap here: YouTube