Pepper Powell 
Project Coordinator 

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Patricia "Pepper" Powell comes to the Construction Planning Department from a varied background in construction. She began her career in commercial construction in San Francisco in 1984 as an administrative aid to the Chief Estimator at a firm that created public works projects as well as high-end residential and commercial renovations. During this period, Ms. Powell attended San Francisco State University and received certification in their Construction Practices Program. Her first college degree came from U C Berkeley, awarded 1974. This company offered Pepper opportunities in project management, estimating, sales, and accounting.

After spending time being an at-home mother of 2, Pepper resumed her work in the building industry, working in restoration – estimating, selling and rebuilding damaged properties, both commercial and residential. This bend in the road presented new challenges in marketing and computerized estimating for the insurance business. A small firm proved a wonderful situation for honing people skills and management abilities.

Ms. Powell has recently taken hiatus to try a hand at teaching, spending 5 years at Capuchino High School in San Bruno. This under-performing school represents the diverse population of a small, blue collar town, with all its many challenges. Pepper drew on all of communication skills and compassion in working with the students in Special Education.

“I am so appreciative of this opportunity to work with the Construction Planning Department. I am excited to be back in construction, and to continue to serve the people of San Mateo County. This team is multi-talented and committed; I am proud to be part of it.”