2025 Women in Construction: Jenny Freeman, LEED AP, Group PMX

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community?

I loved working at the Metropolitan Museum of Art early in my career–unlike other projects, those spaces have not been renovated again and incorporated unique bespoke features! However, my greatest pride has been developing and growing amazing teams. On an individual and a collective basis, this drew upon identifying strengths and opportunities for growth in people, giving them the guidance and support to advance, focusing a spotlight on their successes. The reward of loyalty, gratitude and successful project outcomes from leading an amazing team has been the crowning achievement of my career.

What trends or innovations do you believe will shape the future of your field, and how are you positioning yourself (or your firm) to be at the forefront?

Sustainability is becoming more and more of an essential building block throughout design and construction. It’s evolved from being a goal to being a requirement. I’m also a big proponent of prefab; it’s often safer and produces less waste than other construction practices. We have been effective in pre-fabricating elements of construction and the opportunities continue to expand. I also believe in continuing to embrace new technologies as they become available. At the moment, we are focused on how to best benefit from AI –– an incredibly exciting development.

Do you have a hidden talent or a surprising fact about yourself that most people wouldn’t know?

I’m willing to try fixing almost anything, including dryers and even two of my cars. 

Who or what has inspired you most in your career, and what advice would you share with the next generation of women entering the A/E/C industry?

I’ve admired many strong and competent women who preceded me, mostly for their resilience through a male dominated industry. I had a personal eye-opening experience listening to Mary Ann Tighe advocate for the book “Women Don’t Ask” by Linda Babcock. That book, and the scientific evidence it was based on, led me to examine my own behavior and ultimately focus more effort on being a strong mentor for emerging women in the industry. My advice would be to really take the time to understand how construction comes together. Keep a seat at the table and know you can build great things!

What’s your favorite way to recharge or get inspired outside of work?

I love doing puzzles as well as reading a good novel – it becomes a sort of meditation.