Leading by Example: A Woman Making Her Mark in Construction

March 26, 2025

Executive Insights Development Featured San Francisco More West

Suffolk’s Ann-Marie Jennette on building her dreams in a male-dominated field and paying it forward in her Bay Area community.

That path forward is being paved by those who push boundaries and redefine expectations, said Jennette. Image courtesy of Suffolk

Multi-Housing News continues to celebrate Women’s History Month by bringing to light the stories of exceptional women in the multifamily industry.

Ann-Marie Jennette is a project executive at construction firm Suffolk. Based in San Francisco, she’s known as a community leader, a business mentor and a passionate advocate for the next generation of construction experts.

In this interview, Jennette talks about her experience as a woman in construction and provides her advice on how to overcome biases in a male-dominated industry. Her journey is a powerful example of leadership and community impact.

Your career at Suffolk began almost two decades ago. Is there any residential project that you feel particularly attached to? What makes it so special?

Jennette: Nearly 20 years ago, as I was launching my career in construction at Suffolk in Boston, I supported a residential development project at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in the city’s Back Bay neighborhood. It was the first major project of my career, and it remains one of the most meaningful. I managed the customization packages for 15 of the 50 condominiums. This experience ignited my passion for residential building and set the foundation for the standards of quality, attention to detail, and client experience that still guide my work at Suffolk today.

This project set the bar for me—not just in terms of multifamily construction quality but in shaping how I think about the client experience, both during and long after the build is complete. It was the catalyst for my career, and those lessons carried with me when I moved to San Francisco, where I continue to bring that same level of dedication and thoughtfulness to every project I take on today.

What made this project so special wasn’t just the scale or prestige, it was the deeply personal approach we took with our clients. I had the pleasure of working with some of the most influential people in the world in bringing their vision of their residences to fruition. It’s looking under every surface that’s exposed and looking at the rooms from different vantage points to observe what tenants will be seeing in every moment. I wanted them to know that their home mattered as much to us as it did to them.

Exterior image of Miro Towers — Suffolk acted as the general contractor for the development of San Jose’s second-tallest building, the MIRO Towers. The 28-story, mixed-use community includes 650 units. *Image by Jason O’Rear, courtesy of Suffolk*

How has women’s role in construction evolved over the years? What’s it like being a woman in construction?

Jennette: While the industry continues to evolve, there are still fewer women at the table. That lack of representation has shaped my mindset: If I don’t see the example, I need to be the example for the industry’s next generation of women. I’m paving a path, knowing that my presence and actions matter. I never know who’s watching, so I strive to always lead with intention.

I love what I do and have been fortunate to work with many supportive, encouraging men who have championed my growth and launched me into opportunities to shine. It is important to me that other women know that construction is a viable and rewarding career path so we can continue to increase our representation in the field.

What are the unique challenges that women in construction need to overcome?

Jennette: Change is happening. While today’s graduates see more women in leadership, we still lack full representation, and challenges differ for us depending on where we are in our careers. Work-life balance is a hurdle many women—and men—face in all industries, including construction. All of us wonder: Can I have a career in a demanding field like construction—and a family? The answer is yes. As a full-time single mother to a 4-year-old, I know firsthand that with the right support system, success in both is possible. I’m proud to lead by example.

Overcoming these challenges starts with finding the right networks and communities—organizations like the National Association of Women in Construction offer incredible support. Just as important is working for a team that truly champions women and embraces change. Surrounding yourself with the right people makes all the difference.

Speaking of communities, what strategies do you recommend for building a strong professional network in the construction industry?

Jennette: It may not always be easy, but get out there and network. Attend industry events, stay in touch with past project teams—including colleagues, architects and other consultants—and nurture those relationships over time. Construction is a large industry, but a tight-knit community and the connections you build today can open doors down the road.

One thing I wish I had learned earlier in my career is the importance of defining and representing your personal brand. People in construction often value personal connections, so don’t be afraid to pick up the phone! Relationships are a key foundation for success in this industry.

I know that Suffolk has a program designed to open doors for minority-, women- and veteran-owned businesses in construction. Can you share a few details about your involvement?

Jennette: Build With Us @ Suffolk is a small business accelerator for trade partners and subcontractors, which includes an eight-course program to help minority/women-owned business enterprises, disadvantaged business enterprises and Small Business Administration-certified businesses expand their businesses, develop important relationships and make their unique mark on the industry.

Through our Build With Us @ Suffolk program, I have had the pleasure of mentoring WBE companies in the Bay Area. My involvement has gone beyond just business guidance—I’ve helped participants of the program refine their company structures, navigate bidding processes, and connect with the right decision-makers for new opportunities. Beyond the technical aspects, I’ve also supported them in developing leadership skills like setting boundaries and holding others accountable.

Build With Us @ Suffolk has had a profound influence on both the participants and myself. At its core, the program doesn’t just aim to develop minority-, women- and veteran-owned businesses, it uplifts the people behind them.

What advice do you have for young women entering the construction field?

Jennette: Women are making strides in construction, even in leadership roles and executive positions. That path forward is being paved by those who push boundaries and redefine expectations.

My advice to young women entering the field is simple: You are in complete control of your future. Your career can be as expansive or as limited as the effort you put into it. Be proactive, put in the work, and continuously sharpen your skills. Seek out mentors, build your network and align yourself with companies and leaders who value your contributions. Most importantly, believe in your ability to shape your own path because no one else will do it for you.

Exterior of 1900 Broadway — Jennette worked on this mixed-use 1900 Broadway project in Oakland, Calif., that features 452 units, 75,000 square feet of office space and around 22,000 square feet of retail. *Image by Ellen McAmis, courtesy of Suffolk*

Do you expect representation of women in senior/executive roles in construction to grow over the next decade?

Jennette: I do. As more women enter the industry and gain experience, their voices are becoming stronger, and their leadership is increasingly valued. Companies are recognizing the need for a variety of perspectives at the executive level, and we’re seeing more intentional efforts to foster that growth.

Growth in senior and executive roles also starts with programs that uplift and support those in entry-level positions. One way Suffolk is actively shaping the next generation is through our Career Start program. This two-year rotational program for recent graduates provides hands-on experience across estimating, project management and field operations. It’s been instrumental in developing future leaders who will redefine what’s possible in construction and help drive lasting change in the industry. We’ve had several talented women graduate this program throughout the country.

I have every intention of reaching the executive level at Suffolk, and I want to help others get there, too. The more women we see in leadership, the more we inspire the next generation to step up and claim their seat at the table.