Cathy Schmidt stands out in the construction industry as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Stahl Construction. Her remarkable journey reveals a leader dedicated not only to driving business success but also to nurturing others and championing meaningful change within her organization and the broader industry.
Leadership and Career Journey
Cathy immediately set about fostering a culture of excellence and mentorship. One of her key achievements was steering the company toward sustained profitability by emphasizing robust operational processes and strategic planning. Under her leadership, Stahl expanded its footprint in the construction sector, building relationships with new partners and consistently delivering projects that met the highest standards.
Before joining Stahl, Cathy gained extensive experience in various executive roles. She was the Chief Executive Officer at Fullerton Building Systems and Fullerton Finish Systems, where she focused on innovative building solutions and streamlined delivery processes. Her prior achievements at Surfacequest Solutions, North America’s largest supplier and installer of Architectural Film, included remarkable revenue growth and the development of scalable installation systems.
Company Role and Influence
As President and CEO of Stahl Construction, Cathy Schmidt plays a multifaceted role. She is responsible for both the strategic vision and the day-to-day execution of projects. Cathy brings together strong teams and supports a workplace that values mentorship, professional development, and continuous improvement. One of her real passions is supporting women in construction, a traditionally male-dominated industry.
She actively encourages women to pursue leadership roles and participate in professional organizations, helping to grow the ranks of female decision-makers in commercial real estate and construction.
She has been recognized for mentoring staff and supporting philanthropic causes. She has served on several boards and associations, including Feed My Starving Children, MNCREW, CEORoundtable, CoreNet Global, and the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Achievements and Recognition
Cathy Schmidt’s ability to grow organizations and inspire change has brought her accolades and respect within the business world. At Surfacequest Solutions, she led the company to become the largest supplier and installer of Architectural Film in North America, pioneering scalable systems and efficient processes.
Her work at Fullerton Building Systems and Fullerton Finish Systems positioned those companies as innovators in construction delivery. Additionally, Cathy has been highlighted for expanding Stahl’s success and nurturing a diverse workforce, especially for women in construction.
Her achievements are deeply rooted in education and continuous improvement. Cathy holds a degree in marketing from Iowa State University and an MBA from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management. She is also a LEED Accredited Professional, showcasing her expertise in sustainable design and construction practices.
Personal Life and Values
Cathy Schmidt describes herself as a lifelong learner, constantly seeking new ways to improve herself and those around her. She is passionate about helping others grow, which is reflected in her dedication to mentorship both in business and in volunteer work.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Cathy has been involved in founding companies and nonprofit organizations geared toward inspiring women and supporting community development. Her values centre on giving back and helping others find their path, echoing her belief that true achievement means lifting others up along the way.
Lasting Impact
Cathy Schmidt’s career and personal journey serve as an inspiring blueprint for modern leadership. Through her role as President and CEO at Stahl Construction, she builds strong teams, delivers exceptional projects, and transforms workplaces into supportive communities. Cathy’s unique blend of strategic vision, commitment to empowering others, and dedication to sustainability continues to shape the future of construction and business, leaving a lasting mark on her industry and everyone she meets.
