Jillian Penkin started her career in construction 12 years ago. The first 10 years, she worked for two reputable mechanical contractors. This is where she fell in love with the industry. About 2 years ago Jillian made the move to the commercial flooring world. She has been with RD Weis as an account executive since 2019. RD Weis has been in operation for over 30 years both as a flooring installer and top-notch maintenance company. Jillian loves the ability to not only remain in the construction industry but to be able to bring some design into what she does every day. Different colors, textures, styles, and trends bring her customer’s visions to life in their spaces.

Jillian has been a member of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) for about 10 years. She has served on the board for several years and was Rochester chapter president from 2015-2017. The organization allowed her to learn more about the construction industry and find support where she needed it as a young woman in a male clustered field. Now, she spends much of her time focusing on the support of diversity in the construction industry and helping bring awareness to women working in the trades.

In 2020 Jillian moved to Buffalo, NY and worked with some amazing colleagues to charter the chapter of NAWIC Buffalo-Niagara. Now they are 4 months in and 47 members strong, well on the way to affect positive change in her community, raising funds for the annual scholarship and connecting women across the construction industry to strengthen their bond. Jillian takes pride in leading this newly chartered chapter as President and looks forward to working with members and board of directors to lay a strong foundation that will continue to serve the Buffalo community.