My Site
Meet Kelli
With over two decades of professional experience, including 15 years in the construction industry and time in the C-suite, Kelli knows what it’s like to chase success, hit burnout, and rebuild a life that actually feels like her own.
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A fierce advocate for women in leadership, Kelli speaks from the heart, with stories that are raw, real, and surprisingly funny. She’s the voice behind “Take the Vacation” and “The Pivot” challenging audiences to live boldly, let go of roles that no longer fit and start designing careers (and lives) that do.
Keynote SpeakHER
1
The Pivot
Inspires individuals to rethink their definition of success and gives them the courage to choose alignment over autopilot.
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2
The Safety Gap
Explore the growing presence of women in safety roles and their critical impact on enhancing safety practices and mental
well-being.
3
Take the Vacation
A powerful reminder to prioritize life’s meaningful moments, embrace balance, and create memories that matter beyond work
Achievements
2025 Master Builder Designation
NAWIC 2024 Mentor of the Year
NAWIC 2024 Empowerment Award
2022-2024 Greater Des Moines NAWIC President
2021 MB"Eye" of the Future Graduate
2020 Ankeny Leadership Institute Graduate​​
What People Say
Lizzy Pirrung
Turner Construction
“I have known Kelli Paskert for almost 3 years now. The very first impression I got when meeting her is the passion she has for uplifting people, especially women, in the construction industry. Kelli has always been clear and informative on where she is excited to step in and help others. I reached out to her to facilitate a panel discussion meant to help mentor small, underrepresented businesses in the Des Moines metro area and Kelli soared. She definitely went above and beyond my expectations. Not only did she deliver the questions purposefully, but she also helped drive conversation to help those smaller businesses learn what people and organizations in our industry can be of help to them. Kelli is an excited and enthusiastic presenter/moderator who loves what she does and makes that excitement contagious to all who are in the same room. I am hopeful that the next chance we have to have a speaker or panel discussion, Kelli is available.”
Adam DoBraska
Master Builders of Iowa
“Kelli is a dynamic speaker, and has always answered the call to help MBI. Most recently Kelli was a participant on our Executive Experience Panel for our young professionals network. Kelli captivated the audience with her unique background and experience, and was able to thoughtfully articulate her path to the leadership position she is in today. Not only is she extremely knowledgeable about the construction industry, but she is charismatic and is an expert when it comes to people. I would highly recommend anyone looking for a dynamic speaker to reach out to Kelli.”
What Attendees
Are Saying
"Thank you helping me feel seen and heard! It was wonderful to find a kindred spirit!"
- 2025 North Dakota Safety Conference Attendee
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"Kelli is a dynamic speaker and really brought focus to the group to leave here with a thought and a take the vacation mentality. I’d love to hear more from her! "
- 2025 Women Lead Change: Cedar Rapids Attendee