Carrying the Lampson Legacy Forward: Kate Lampson on Family, Inclusion, and the Future of Heavy Lift
- Mar 4, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 18
30 Second Takeaway
As a third-generation leader at Lampson International, Kate Lampson has grown up immersed in the crane, lift, and specialized transport industry. From early memories in the equipment yard to shaping modern HR policies and inclusive workplace practices, Kate reflects on legacy, leadership, and what it means to steward one of the industry’s most respected family-owned companies into the future.
A Legacy That Started in Childhood
For Kate Lampson, joining the family business was never a question of if only when.
“I knew that I wanted to work in the family business since I was five years old.”
Her earliest memories are inseparable from Lampson International itself: weekend drives through the yard with her father, listening to business discussions around the dinner table, and serving meals to international customers visiting town.
“I always knew that the family business was my passion and what I was determined to fulfill.”
What has kept her in the industry, she says, is not only loyalty to her family’s legacy, but a genuine love for the construction industry and the relationships built over decades.
“The many great friendships and business relationships that we as a company and as a family have cultivated over the years.”
Supporting Employees On and Off the Job
Employee wellbeing has long been a priority at Lampson, particularly given the demands of heavy lift and specialized transport work.
Kate explains that the company has consistently supported employees through:
Recovery time following surgery
Caring for loved ones
Much-needed rest after extended time on the road
“We have always tried to be good about giving our employees time off… and we have also tried to become better about rotating our crews more often, when possible, to allow them time at home with their families.”
These efforts reflect an understanding that sustained performance depends on recovery, balance, and family support.
Women in the Industry: Progress and Barriers
Kate has witnessed meaningful progress for women across the crane and construction sector both in offices and in the field.
“From seeing women in C-suite roles… to oilers, operators, and ironworkers in the field, to serving on industry boards and committees I feel as though we have made great strides.”
However, barriers still remain.
“There is still this notion that women aren’t as knowledgeable about the equipment… or that we aren’t as effective in the boardroom.”
Kate believes dismantling these assumptions is essential not just for fairness, but for the long-term strength of the industry.
Shaping Company Culture from the Inside
In her role, Kate has played a direct role in shaping Lampson’s internal culture particularly during pivotal moments.
“I’ve had the ability to help write company policies during the pandemic as well as update our employee handbook.”
Her work has spanned everything from cell phone use and employee conduct to paid time off and medical leave, helping define how Lampson supports its workforce today and into the future.
“I’ve helped shape what the future of our company looks like.”
Challenges as a Woman in a Legacy Industry
Kate acknowledges that challenges still exist.
“I feel that there will always be that demographic of men who believe that women are the inferior gender.”
But she also sees positive momentum.
“We are much more supported than we used to be by men in the industry, and that is encouraging.”
She views this cultural shift as a net benefit for the entire crane and lifting sector.
Mentorship, Advocacy, and Growth
Kate encourages women entering the industry to immerse themselves fully in learning far beyond their immediate job description.
“Learn as much as you can about the industry from the equipment… to the insurance used to protect their assets.”
She also stresses the importance of:
Continuing education
Speaking engagements
Volunteer service
Building professional relationships even with competitors
These experiences, she believes, build confidence, credibility, and long-term opportunity.
Advice for the Next Generation
For those just starting out, Kate’s advice is clear and practical:
“Learn as much as you can. Shadow people in your office, ask to travel to job sites, attend trade shows and conferences.”
She also emphasises networking, relationship-building, and enjoying the journey.
“Most of all, have fun doing it!”
Moments of Pride Beyond a Single Milestone
Kate says there isn’t one defining moment that stands above the rest.
“Rather many good memories of serving on boards and committees and representing the interests of our family, company, community, and state.”
She also values speaking engagements, trade shows, and traveling with family and colleagues to represent Lampson on a global stage.
Honoring Legacy Without Being Defined by It
Being part of a multi-generational company carries expectations, but Kate embraces them with intention.
“I am very proud of the company that my grandparents started and of what my father and other family members have accomplished.”
She believes in leading with integrity.
“I believe in being honest, kind, and polite, yet firm when necessary.”
And while many see her as serious, there’s another side.
“Most people are rather surprised when I enjoy myself and have a little fun!”
About Lampson International
Lampson International is a globally recognized, family-owned leader in heavy lift, engineered transport, and specialized rigging solutions. Founded in 1946, the company has built a reputation for tackling some of the world’s most complex lifting challenges across energy, infrastructure, industrial construction, mining, and aerospace sectors.
With a fleet that includes some of the largest crawler cranes and heavy lift systems in the world, Lampson combines engineering excellence with a deeply rooted safety culture. Now in its third generation of family leadership, the company continues to invest in innovation, workforce development, and industry leadership while remaining grounded in the values on which it was built.
Website: https://www.lampson.com
