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Each month we are featuring one of our 2020 WTS Metropolitan Phoenix Awards recipients. This month we are spotlighting Woman of the Year, Jennifer Donaldson, P.E. with Stacy and Witbeck. Jennifer is dedicated to constructing exceptional projects and firm believer in promoting and encouraging young people to join the transportation industry.

We talked with her about what her typical day looks like and who has influenced her the most in her career.

What does a typical day look like for you and what are you currently working on?

I am currently the Sr. Project Engineer on the Brightline High Speed Rail project in Florida- from West Palm Beach to Cocoa.  Typical day? My alarm goes off at 3:45am; start my day with a run, meditation, and some uninterrupted personal development time. Head to work (6am-6pm) in meetings, spreadsheets, meetings, spreadsheets;  then home, dinner, a glass of wine, and catch up with the family.

How would you describe your job to a child?

I get to work on all the background stuff, planning, problem solving, money, that you don’t see on the construction site.

What is your biggest achievement to date – personally or professionally?

Personally, my kids. They are pretty amazing people, and I enjoy and appreciate their curiosity, sense of adventure, and ability to enjoy life more and more every day.  Professionally, the out-of-the-blue notes of appreciation from people who have worked with me or for me in the past.  I love to help people grow, if they are willing. It’s rewarding to watch them succeed and know you were a small part of that.

What do you think is the greatest thing you’ve learned from being part of WTS?

That there are women to look up to in this industry!  For many years, my path did not cross other women in the industry. It was quite refreshing to meet some extremely accomplished women, and (my favorite part) introduce girls and young women to the industry.

Who has influenced you the most in your career?

My dad.  He was in the industry. Without realizing it, simply spending time with him on his projects; hearing stories; and the little tidbits of advice, I picked up more than I realized. on work ethic, how to treat people, who to reach out to for help, when something needs to be “perfect” and when “good enough” is good enough. 

What is something you can’t live without?

Pens and white wine.  Not necessarily in that order!