Influential Woman · Corporate training and executive coaching
Jennifer Girardi McCloskey
Owner, Girardi Associates
Bethesda, MD 20817
Her Story
About Jennifer
Jennifer Girardi McCloskey is the owner of Girardi Associates, a corporate training, executive coaching, leadership development, and professional speaking company. Through her work, Jennifer partners with organizations worldwide, including Lululemon, Amazon, and the Department of the Navy, delivering transformative programs focused on leadership effectiveness, communication excellence, team development, and business-focused body language. Her international experience working with clients across Australia, India, South Africa, and beyond reflects her ability to connect with diverse audiences and assist leaders and teams to achieve meaningful results. Prior to founding Girardi Associates, Jennifer built an accomplished career spanning more than 30 years as a civil engineer, project manager, and organizational leader. She began her career in commercial construction with what is now the Clark Construction Group, where she became one of the first female engineers to serve in both the field and headquarters roles. She later joined the U.S. Department of Energy, where she contributed to large-scale environmental restoration initiatives, including the transformation of former nuclear weapons sites into sustainable Greenfields. Her extensive experience in engineering, project leadership, and organizational change has shaped her unique approach to developing innovative solutions and empowering others. Jennifer holds a civil engineering degree from the University of Maryland and a minor in dance, combining technical expertise with creativity, communication, and human connection. She attributes much of her success to the values instilled by her parents, who encouraged her to believe that she could accomplish anything, and she embraces a “find-a-way” mindset when navigating challenges and opportunities. Jennifer is also the author of Put Comfortable Shoes in My Coffin (2019), a collection of personal stories highlighting resilience, perseverance, and the lessons learned through adversity. Through her leadership, coaching, and speaking engagements, she continues to inspire individuals and organizations to embrace growth, overcome obstacles, and create lasting impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jennifer
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the strong foundation my mother and father provided, instilling in me the belief that I could achieve anything. I have been fortunate to receive many blessings throughout my life, and I believe it is important to honor those opportunities by using them to make a positive impact. I am passionate about reminding others that they are never alone; they always have support and strength within themselves, and they have the ability to overcome challenges. My message is simple: believe in yourself and find a way.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The most valuable career advice I received came from my brother, who encouraged me to create a list of everything I hoped to accomplish and the things I was passionate about. When we reviewed the list together, he helped me identify a common thread and introduced me to the field of engineering, showing me how it could combine my interest in using science to help others with my appreciation for creativity, art, and beauty. His guidance helped me discover my true calling in civil engineering and business leadership, shaping the path I continue to pursue today.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to remember to always remain professional. It is important to recognize you deserve a seat at the table just as much as anyone else, and to approach every opportunity with confidence, skill, and determination. Continue to embrace a mindset of lifelong learning, remain curious, and always continue to grow both personally and professionally. Your willingness to learn, pivot, and persevere will lead to an impactful and meaningful career.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field today is encouraging intellectual humility while helping leaders and professionals strengthen their communication skills, leadership abilities, and understanding of body language. I strive to introduce innovative concepts and practical strategies to encourage teams to approach learning in new and engaging ways while providing fresh perspectives. Through my work in corporate training and leadership development, I am passionate about enhancing others in their growth, effective communication, and navigating challenges with confidence. I also share lessons from my own experiences through my book, Put Comfortable Shoes in My Coffin, which features personal stories of adversity and resilience designed to inspire others.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are inspiring others to find their passion, purpose, and excitement for what they do. I believe in fostering a “find a way” mentality, recognizing while challenges and obstacles are inevitable, there is always an opportunity to embrace change and find a workable approach. Whether supporting my children, my colleagues, or those I have the privilege to work with, I strive to encourage resilience, perseverance, and the belief that there is always a path forward. My goal is to assist others in recognizing their strengths and move forward with confidence.
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