Az Big Media will be profiling one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2026 each day leading up to the celebratory dinner on August 20, 2025. Today, meet Amy Hawkins, vice president of operations for Clayco Phoenix Construction.
From a field of more than 2,200 women under consideration, the Most Influential Women in Arizona were selected by the editorial board of Az Business magazine and a panel of 12 former Most Influential Women. The Most Influential Women in Arizona Business for 2026 will be honored at a celebratory dinner on Aug. 20, 2026, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix. The Spotlight Award Sponsor for the Most Influential Women of 2026 is CORE Construction, the Special Gift Sponsor is Tarbell’s, the VIP Sponsor is GCON, the VIP Reception Sponsor is Cullum Homes, the Cover Photo Shoot Sponsor is Greenberg Traurig, the Beverage Sponsor is Arizona Escrow & Financial, the Valet Sponsor in Stevens-Leinweber, the Floral Sponsor is PCL Construction, the Dessert Sponsor is SottoPelle and Tutera Medical, the 360 Photo Booth Sponsor is Clayco, the Step-and -Repeat Sponsor is Morris Hall, the Digital Sponsor is Desert Diamond Casinos, the Floral Provider is PJs Flowers and the Production Sponsor is Merestone.
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Amy Hawkins, vice president of operations, Clayco
Background: Hawkins is a distinguished construction executive with more than three decades of experience. Hawkins has spent the last four years successfully delivering mission-critical infrastructure projects for the world’s most influential hyperscale technology companies. As vice president of operations for Clayco Phoenix, she oversees a portfolio of more than $3 billion in data center construction, helping drive Arizona’s growth as a national technology hub. Known for her commitment to safety, operational excellence and team development, Hawkins has earned a reputation as a trusted leader and mentor. Her ability to navigate complex challenges while cultivating strong relationships has made her an influential figure in the construction industry and a role model for emerging professionals.
Advice to younger self: “If I could give advice to my younger self, I would say: take more chances and trust yourself sooner. Don’t wait for someone else to validate your opinion before sharing it. Speak up in the meeting, pursue the opportunity that feels just beyond your reach, and don’t be afraid to challenge conventional thinking.”
Professional legacy: “My professional legacy won’t be defined by the buildings I helped construct, no matter how complex, iconic or challenging they were. It will be defined by the people. I was fortunate to learn from some of the best leaders in our industry, and the greatest privilege of my career has been paying that forward. If I’ve helped someone believe in themselves, grow as a leader, advance their career, or realize their potential, then that’s the legacy I’m most proud of leaving behind.”
Surprising fact: “A fun fact about me is that I’m a descendant of Massasoit, the great Wampanoag leader whose alliance with the Pilgrims became part of American history. As a construction executive, I like to think leadership runs in the family. Although, if we’re being honest, my ancestors probably deserve credit for the original Thanksgiving project — and we’re still reviewing the lessons learned 400 years later.”
