Behind the Build: Meet Kastilla, Journeywoman Carpenter
For Kastilla, a career in construction wasn’t something she planned from day one — it was something she grew into.
Growing up, she spent time helping her dad with side jobs, discovering early on that she enjoyed working with her hands. By high school, while many were still figuring out their next steps, Kastilla knew one thing for sure: she wanted a hands-on career. Being introduced to the trades through her boyfriend, who was already working in the industry, helped solidify that path — and in 2021, she officially began her carpentry apprenticeship.
Fast forward to the summer of 2025, and Kastilla proudly earned her Journeywoman status.
“It felt like the apprenticeship went by quickly,” she says. “But it was a huge sense of accomplishment. I’m excited to keep growing and advancing in my career.”
Finding Confidence in the Field
As a carpenter, no two days look the same — and that’s exactly what Kastilla loves about the job. From building forms and setting panels to preparing deck pours and welding, every day brings something new.
Some of the most rewarding moments for her, though, aren’t just about the work itself.
“I really enjoy getting to know everyone on a project — from owners to field crews,” she shares. “I’m a people person.” That connection extends beyond the jobsite too, whether she’s sharing project photos with her siblings or taking pride in how much her confidence has grown over time.
Since joining Kozeny-Wagner in August of 2023, Kastilla has worked alongside many superintendents on projects with a wide range of scopes. Her experience includes time on projects like DeBaliviere Signal House, Allen Road, Airport, and 270 Ladue/Conway — opportunities that have helped shape her skills and perspective as a Journeywoman.
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A Woman in the Trades
Working in a traditionally male-dominated industry has come with its learning curves.
“It’s been mostly a positive experience,” Kastilla explains, “but it helps to have thicker skin.” She notes that the straightforward nature of the field can feel abrasive at times, but ultimately, being treated the same as her male counterparts has helped her grow.
The physical demands of the job have also required adaptability. Over time, she’s learned to work smarter — finding strategic ways to move materials, knowing when to ask for help, and understanding her limits to prevent injury.
Her advice to other women considering a career in the trades?
“Come into it with an open mind. Know your values. And try to get along with everyone.”
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Why Kozeny-Wagner
Ask Kastilla what she enjoys most about working at Kozeny-Wagner, and her answer comes easily: the people.
“There’s great morale in the field and a sunny outlook — even on cloudy days,” she says. She describes her teammates as goofy, light-hearted, hard-working, and smart. “We truly care about each other and want to see everyone succeed.”
One moment that stands out most in her career came before she even joined Kozeny-Wagner. When Cody Beck recognized her potential while she was at a different general contractor and encouraged her to make the move, it proved to be a pivotal turning point.
Other unforgettable moments include setting Nu Girders for the first time — a major milestone — and a jobsite memory she still laughs about: watching water shoot out of a core drill hole like a geyser after a compressor was turned on. “I definitely wasn’t expecting that big of a spray,” she recalls.
Looking Ahead
Now that she’s reached Journeywoman status, Kastilla isn’t slowing down. Her goals include continuing to fine-tune her craft, completing her degree in Construction Management, and eventually running work of her own.
Beyond her personal growth, she’s passionate about opening doors for others.
“I’d love to see more women in the field,” she says. Kastilla has already worked with the Carpenters Union and local schools to educate young people about opportunities in the trades — helping the next generation see that construction is a path for everyone.
Fun Facts About Kastilla
- She’s the oldest of nine siblings, with the youngest just 6 years old
- Her name originally started as Kalista before evolving into Kastilla
- She’s been with her boyfriend for 7 years — and together they have 4 dogs and 3 cats
- She danced for 12 years and played softball from T-ball through high school
- While working on the Ladue project, she once became so focused building a box for handrail brackets that she accidentally built herself into it — earning the nickname “Kas in the Box”
Kastilla’s story is a reminder that the work behind the build is just as important as what you see when a project is complete. Through hard work, resilience, and a genuine passion for learning, she continues to leave her mark — not just on the jobsite, but on the people around her.
As she looks ahead to the next chapter of her career, Kastilla embodies the future of our industry: skilled, driven, and committed to making space for the next generation. Kozeny-Wagner is proud to have her on our team and excited to watch where her journey takes her next.
