2025 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Lena Kenny, JT Magen

“Lena Kenny exemplifies what it means to be a leader in safety. Her tireless commitment to our team’s well-being, her can-do, never-say-no attitude, and her ability to shift our entire mindset around safety have been transformative. She brings diligence, professionalism, and meticulous record keeping to every task, and her dedication to keeping JT Magen employees safe is second to none.” - Leo Martin, Director of Construction, JT Magen.

What is your top advice for someone just starting out in your field? Starting a career in any field can be exciting and overwhelming — and in Construction Health and Safety, that feeling is magnified. The stakes are high, and the responsibility to protect lives adds a unique level of pressure. The key to success is staying curious and open to growth. New products, updated regulations, and evolving best practices are always emerging — and with them, new opportunities to protect our workforce. It’s easy to feel like others have it all figured out, but it’s important to remember that no one starts out knowing everything, and you’re not expected to either.

Who has been pivotal in your professional development, and how have they influenced you? I’ve been incredibly fortunate to join an outstanding safety team at JT Magen. From day one, I’ve received unwavering support in my professional development — not only from my direct team but also from senior management. When leadership genuinely invests in your growth, it creates an environment where you can truly thrive. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here and the people who have pushed me to take on new challenges with confidence. On a personal level, my mother, sisters, close friends, and female colleagues consistently inspire me with their strength, drive, and and resilience.

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career so far was navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. I began my role at JT Magen in late 2019, just before the world — and our industry — was upended. Coming from a background in science, I was fortunate to bring a unique skill set to the team — particularly in contamination control and disinfection protocols. As guidance shifted and safety requirements evolved almost daily, I worked closely with our team to adapt quickly, implement new procedures, and ensure that worker health remained the top priority.