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From Prison to Pink Hats: Woman Rebuilds Life in Construction
9 Apr
Summary
- Traci Quinn turned her life around after a prison sentence.
- She founded Pink Hats, an all-female construction company.
- The company now grosses over $1 million annually.
Traci Quinn, a former nurse, has successfully launched an all-female construction company named Pink Hats after serving a prison sentence. Quinn was convicted in 2016 for trafficking cannabis, an experience she described as traumatizing but which she felt led her to a new purpose.
She established Pink Hats in 2020, specializing in redevelopment in Chicago's underserved neighborhoods. Quinn faced significant challenges, including sexism and racism in the male-dominated construction industry, and initial struggles with subcontractors. She actively pursued construction classes and mentorship to gain expertise.
With support from non-profit groups, Traci secured municipal contracts. Pink Hats achieved $125,000 in its first year and surpassed $1 million in 2025. The company now employs her four daughters and six other women.
Pink Hats recently renovated a home for women recovering from substance abuse and is building ten affordable homes. Quinn received a $250,000 city grant to establish a trades training program, aiming to help ex-convicts re-enter society.
