This year’s NAWIC Cleveland Chapter President, Jessica VanGelder, is a dedicated leader in both the construction industry and her local NAWIC chapter. As a consultant, Jessica serves as an Owner’s Representative at JVG Advisors, specializing in safety and accessibility. Her current work allows her to share her extensive knowledge in the multi-family housing industry, construction design, procurement, and safety, making her an invaluable resource for her clients and colleagues.

A Recognized Leader: Jessica was nominated by NAWIC Cleveland Chapter #156 for the 2022 Future Leader of the Year award, a testament to her exceptional leadership and over 20 years of operations and product management experience. Her detailed-oriented approach and persistence have consistently delivered outstanding results, both for her company and her NAWIC chapter.

Professional Growth within NAWIC: Jessica’s NAWIC journey began five years ago, but it wasn’t until she attended a national conference that she fully embraced what the organization offers. “I initially thought it was just a girls’ club, but when I went to the conference, I saw that it was really about leadership, learning, and camaraderie,” Jessica said. Since then, she has taken on several leadership roles and is committed to mentoring the next generation of women in construction, focusing on growing the Cleveland chapter with her “Building Our Future” platform. Her goal is to provide younger members with the tools and mentorship they need to succeed in the industry.

Networking and Community Benefits: For Jessica, NAWIC offers much more than professional growth—it’s a community of support. “I’ve found a group of sisters, people I can call without hesitation, who listen and offer advice without judgment,” she shared. The strong connections Jessica has made through NAWIC have been instrumental not only in her career but in her personal growth as well.

Life Beyond Construction: Outside of work and NAWIC, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband, Mike, and their family at their cottage on Lake Saint Mary’s in Celina, Ohio, where they love to boat, fish, and relax. She’s a proud mom and grandmother, cherishing the time she spends with her two grandchildren and six grown children. Her home is often filled with the playful energy of her beloved Morkie, Vern, who is always by her side in her office.

In addition to her professional and family life, Jessica is passionate about animal welfare and is an active volunteer with the Medina County SPCA.

How NAWIC Membership Has Enhanced Her Career: While NAWIC has provided Jessica with professional development opportunities, she acknowledges that the organization’s greatest impact has been personal. “NAWIC has been more beneficial personally than professionally,” she admits. Through mentoring others and taking on leadership roles, Jessica has not only grown as a leader but has also found fulfillment in helping others succeed.

Invitation to Engage: Jessica’s story is a testament to the power of community and leadership within NAWIC. Whether you’re seeking professional growth, mentorship, or simply looking for a network of supportive peers, NAWIC Cleveland offers a space for women in construction to connect and thrive. Jessica invites you to join the chapter, attend a meeting, and experience the benefits of membership firsthand.