Carol Horton Named 2026 Builder of the Year in Fort Worth

Horton is only the third woman to receive this distinction since the association began awarding the title in 1955, joining Debbie Dykstra and Heather Laminack in a small, historic group of honorees. With over two decades of experience in residential construction, Horton launched Lily Grace Homes with a focus on livability, prioritizing how families navigate daily routines over mere square footage. Her approach centers on the reality of domestic life, from storage solutions for busy households to the natural flow of sunlight through living spaces.

Reflecting on the award, Horton highlighted the persistent gender gap in the construction sector, where women currently account for just over 11% of the workforce. She credited the GFWBA’s Professional Women in Building Council for providing the support system necessary to launch her firm two years ago. By fostering a collaborative environment, she aims to use her platform to encourage more women to enter the field and to ensure that the industry continues to evolve through shared knowledge and mentorship.