A conversation with Jessica Meyers 

What was it like to start JEM so early in your career? What sort of hurdles did you face? 

One of my favorite quotes is “If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes and learn how to do it later”. That is an accurate description of where I was early in my career. I was young, a woman in a male dominated industry and a relatively inexperienced leader. There was a lot I didn’t know. I did know that building relationships was everything and that played to my strengths. My sole focus was on building a strong team (internal and external), performing on every project, and giving back to the community. 

What does JEM look like today? How has it grown in those 18 years? 

We’ve gone from a team of 4 to a team of 40! I credit our growth to a dynamic and disciplined planning process and an incredible team of leaders that are drive by our purpose of building to improve lives. Our flexibility, diverse portfolio of projects and expanding our services has positioned us for consistent growth year after year. We work hard to provide increased value to our clients which has meant expanding our footprint and the services that we offer. 

How would you describe yourself as a leader? 

My goal as a leader has always been to be authentic. I try to show up as a real person who is open and honest, shares the “Why” and consistently delivers on our core values and purpose. Building trust with team members, colleagues and clients is something I value greatly. 

What does the Women Business Enterprise designation mean for JEM? 

I’m very proud to be a WBE and a diverse contractor in our community. I truly believe that diverse teams are the best teams. When you bring team members together with a variety of experiences and backgrounds, you will see collaboration, innovation and problem solving. 

How has contracting changed following the pandemic? 

On the positive side, we’ve seen the release of much pent-up project demand which has resulted in great building opportunities us. Supply chain, labor shortages and a volatile pricing are challenges we are managing daily on our projects. 

What do you see next for JEM in the coming years? 

Ultimately at JEM, it’s about building to improve lives.  Our goal over the next 10 years is to positively impact 100 million lives through our work and we are well on our way. 

About Jessica Meyers 

For more than two decades, Jessica Meyers has developed a strong reputation as a leading entrepreneur, philanthropist and voice for women in business. 

In 2003, she founded JEM Group, a commercial construction company. As one of few women in the industry, she has grown JEM Group into one of the best known and widely respected construction firms in Pennsylvania.  

Today, JEM Group handles projects across many market sectors, including corporate, health care, education, government, multi-family and retail.