Glenda Secola
Glenda Secola is a dedicated construction professional and Project Manager at JAXI Builders, Inc., where she has built a strong reputation for leadership, perseverance, and continuous growth. With more than a decade of experience in the construction industry, Glenda has progressed from project engineer roles to managing complex projects, contributing to the successful execution of municipal and commercial developments across South Florida. Her work reflects a deep commitment to quality, coordination, and delivering projects that meet both client expectations and community needs.
Her journey into construction is rooted in determination and resilience. After serving in the military, Glenda made the decision to return to school and pursue her education at Miami Dade College, where she earned her degree while balancing real-world responsibilities. A competitive internship with Munilla Construction Management and the City of Homestead became a turning point, opening the door to a full-time career in the field. Willing to take a pay cut to enter the industry, she immersed herself in learning—completing additional coursework in plan reading and construction fundamentals—to build the technical expertise that would fuel her advancement.
Today, Glenda thrives in her role as a project manager, leading with humility, discipline, and a belief that strong leadership comes from continuous learning and hands-on experience. She values teamwork, kindness, and personal growth, both on and off the job site. A proud daughter of immigrants and a military veteran, Glenda brings a grounded perspective to her work, prioritizing both professional excellence and self-care. As she looks ahead, she remains focused on expanding her leadership impact, with aspirations to move into executive-level roles while continuing to build meaningful projects—and opportunities—for others.
• Miami Dade College- Bachelor's
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, hard work, and the willingness to step into opportunities even when I wasn’t sure I would be chosen. From my time in the military to earning my degree later in life and competing for a life-changing internship, I’ve always stayed committed to growth and pushing myself forward. I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come, and that dedication continues to drive me as I grow in my role as a project manager and beyond.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received isn’t something that was said outright, but something I’ve lived every day through the support of my husband—having a partner who truly shows up, supports your goals, and shares the load at home makes all the difference. His constant encouragement and willingness to stand beside me, both personally and professionally, has taught me that success is never achieved alone and that having a strong support system is everything.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell them to be open to learn and take the bad with the good. You're not always going to have the best leaders around you, but they can always teach you on how not to be. Do your best in learning the trade that you're in. Even if you have to go back to learn a little bit more - I had to go back and take a class on plan reading, like the basics. I had to go back and take three more classes just to get myself familiar with what I was getting into. If you have to do that, take those classes. Be open, just open to learn. Leadership doesn't come just from knowing the job, it comes also from leading and learning how to push your people to work for you. The main thing is being open and humble.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is working with imperfect leadership, which often requires individuals to step up, learn leadership skills for themselves, and continue developing technical expertise independently. At the same time, there are strong opportunities for growth through continued education, additional coursework, and gaining hands-on experience in construction project roles that build both confidence and capability.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The biggest thing that I do outside of work is take care of myself. Our minds are our tool, our power. I wake up early at 5 AM and go to the gym, and that's my date for myself, where I take care of myself. So I do my workout and then get ready for the day. That 5 AM time is the only time that I have for me. In the evenings, I have two boys who play sports, so we do sports and that evening time is for my family - they're my hobby. I believe in being open to learn and being humble. Leadership doesn't come just from knowing the job, it comes from leading and learning how to push your people to work for you. The main thing is being open and humble in your position.