For 39 years, Paulette Cialdella has built more than electrical systems — she has built a career defined by dedication, expertise, and passion.
Paulette began her journey in the electrical industry in 1987 when she entered the IBEW Local #134 apprenticeship program. Starting out in low voltage, she quickly discovered she had both an aptitude and a genuine love for the work. Through determination and hard-earned experience, she achieved Journeyperson status, spending more than two decades working in the field across both local and national projects. “I loved every minute of it,” Paulette says of her time installing in the field.
For the first two decades of her career Paulette supported projects for CNA Insurance that brought her across the nation, from San Francisco to the World Trade Center in New York City. Those experiences shaped her technical expertise and gave her a deep understanding of the industry from the ground up.
Paulette brought her field experience and leadership to Candor Electric where she has helped build projects across Chicago for close to two decades. Today, she serves as an Executive Senior Estimator and Project Manager, where she leads complex projects from preconstruction through completion. In her role, she is responsible for estimating, project oversight, client coordination, and ensuring that projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and with precision.
“You’re never done thinking,” she says. “I think while I’m sleeping.” It’s that constant drive to problem-solve and stay ahead in a fast-paced industry that defines her approach to leadership.
Among the many projects she has contributed to at Candor Electric, Paulette is especially proud of her work on the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Building at the Chicago Joint Safety Training Campus. The EMS Building will serve as a cornerstone for hands-on emergency medical training, simulation exercises, and communications readiness for Chicago’s Fire and EMS departments.
She is also currently involved in the ongoing South Water Street Metra Station project in Chicago, helping shape vital infrastructure that serves the city every day.
Paulette exemplifies what Women in Construction Week celebrates: resilience, expertise, and leadership. She has continuously expanded her knowledge through formal training and hands-on experience, staying at the forefront of industry advancements. In addition to her IBEW training, she is a graduate of DeVry Institute of Technology and attended the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston — a testament to her diverse talents and drive.
Outside of construction, Paulette’s creativity shines just as brightly. An accomplished guitarist, she has performed three times at the Women Rock event at the House of Blues. She plays in an all-female David Bowie tribute band called Lady Stardust and also performs solo. When she’s not managing projects or performing on stage, you might find her riding her Harley across the country — embracing the same independence and adventurous spirit that has fueled her career.
From apprentice to executive leadership, from job sites to the stage, Paulette Cialdella’s journey reflects both the evolution of women in construction and the powerful impact of passion paired with perseverance. Candor Electric is proud to celebrate Paulette and her nearly four decades of contributions to the industry.
