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Adam R. Jelen
President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Gilbane Building Company
Adam R. Jelen is the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gilbane Building Company, a prominent global construction management firm. He assumed this role on January 1, 2024, succeeding Thomas M. Laird Jr., who transitioned to the position of chairman.124 Jelen has been with Gilbane for over 19 years, progressing through various leadership roles including Chief Operating Officer (COO), Executive Vice President, and Senior Vice President, where he was responsible for operations across multiple divisions.134
Professional Background
Jelen has a robust background in the construction industry, boasting over 33 years of experience. His career began in skilled trades, where he worked in various capacities including heavy and highway labor, asphalt, concrete, sewer work, and excavation. He joined Gilbane in 2005 as a project manager and quickly rose through the ranks due to his leadership and operational expertise.123 Throughout his tenure at Gilbane, he has been involved in projects totaling over $10 billion and has held significant roles in the Midwest and West regions of the company.24
Education
Adam R. Jelen earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction with a Minor in Business Administration from Bradley University and an Associate of Science degree from Harper College.3
Leadership Philosophy
As CEO, Jelen emphasizes the importance of people within the organization, stating that the core of Gilbane's success lies in its talented workforce. He aims to foster a culture of care and collaboration among teams to enhance project delivery and community impact.34 His vision includes promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the company and the broader construction industry.4
Community Engagement
Jelen is actively involved in initiatives aimed at mentoring the next generation of construction professionals. He serves as an executive committee member for National Construction Safety Week and was a founding board member of the ACE Mentor Program in Milwaukee, which focuses on inspiring young people to pursue careers in architecture, engineering, and construction.135
In summary, Adam R. Jelen is recognized as a visionary leader committed to excellence in construction management and community service through his role at Gilbane Building Company.
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