Each year, Engineering News-Record Midwest honors 20 top young professionals in the region's architecture, engineering, and construction fields for their industry education, experience, and leadership, in addition to their community service and involvement.

We are proud to congratulate two of our team members, Mary Adams, superintendent, and Joel Jacobson, senior integrated construction manager, on being recognized as two of Engineering News-Record Midwest’s 2021 Top Young Professionals!

Get to know Mary and Joel: 

• Mary Adams, Superintendent: Overseeing the construction of sports venues is a complex undertaking for even the most tenured industry professionals. As one of the youngest and female superintendents on two of the most recent high-profile sports projects in the country, Mary has enthusiastically and confidently embraced the responsibility before her. She demonstrates the ability to see issues from all sides, which helps strive towards win-win strategies. She leads subcontractors with energy, passion, and a genuine willingness to help. Most recently, Mary led commissioning and testing of all MEP and Life Safety Systems at Allegiant Stadium -- driving the monumental project during a complicated time to an on-time completion. As the only female superintendent in the Sports + Entertainment Group, Mary is committed to sharing her story and encouraging others like her to consider field supervision. She has had the full support of peers and company, attending seminars, showing others what she’s doing on-site, and planning activities for NAWIC’s Women in Construction Week. Mary is passionate about paving the way for future female leaders. 

• Joel Jacobson, Senior Integrated Construction Manager Joel joined Mortenson’s Chicago office in 2012 and has been instrumental in developing Mortenson’s industry-leading VDC coordination efforts. He has pioneered technological advancements on large-scale projects, including the $2 billion Allegiant Stadium project, where his 3D model served as the single source of truth for hundreds of team members tasked with delivering the largest design-build stadium project with the tightest schedule in NFL history. Joel continues to impact our business on a national scale, traveling with the company to deliver an exceptional customer experience where our customers need him. He currently serves as Senior Integrated Construction Manager supporting Mortenson’s Chicago office and national Data Center Group, delivering one of the most advanced, energy- and water-efficient data center facilities in the world for a confidential customer in Illinois.

To learn more about the winners, click here.