Jessica Nolan, CMIT
Jessica Nolan, CMIT, is a construction management professional whose career demonstrates how determination, continuous learning, and leadership can build authority in even the most technical industries. Without a formal construction education, she entered the infrastructure sector and established credibility through hands-on experience, certification, and consistent performance.
Nolan currently serves as Project Coordinator and Interim Office Manager for Urban Engineers, Inc. in the firm’s New England region. In this role, she supports major federally funded transportation programs in collaboration with agencies including the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), the Puerto Rico Highways and Transportation Authority, and the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Her work contributes to complex infrastructure initiatives ranging from bridge and signal improvements to multibillion-dollar transit modernization and emergency relief programs.
Committed to professional growth, Nolan earned her Construction Manager in Training (CMIT) Level 1 certification through the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) and continues advancing her credentials while serving on the Board of Directors for the CMAA Connecticut Chapter in Communications.
A single mother of two and a 14 year professional singer with the band LittleHouse, Nolan’s journey reflects resilience, discipline, and the ability to lead across multiple arenas. Her career stands as an example that influence is not defined by traditional pathways, but by dedication, expertise, and the courage to build one’s own blueprint.
• CMIT
• Diploma - Canton CT High School
• 2008 CREC: Shining Star Award
• High School Honors Student
• Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)
• Board of Directors for the CT Chapter of CMAA: Communications
• Voulnteer for CMAA Programs, Awards & Website Committees
What do you attribute your success to?
Discipline, curiosity, and resilience. I entered construction management without a traditional background, so I made a commitment to out-learn the gaps and earn credibility through action. Becoming a single mother reinforced that mindset — when something matters, you find a way to build it. Whether in my career, professional certifications, or music, I’ve learned that progress isn’t about perfect conditions; it’s about showing up consistently and doing the work.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received was: "You don’t need a degree to be qualified to excel". Growth rarely happens when you stay inside what you already know. Much of my career has been built by stepping into opportunities where I had more to learn than to prove, and then committing to mastering them. Confidence is built through action, not before it.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to stay curious and don’t let a nontraditional background hold you back. Construction and infrastructure need many different skill sets, not just engineering. Ask questions, seek out mentors, and pursue certifications or training that help you understand the industry from multiple angles. Most importantly, trust that you belong in the room. Confidence often grows from preparation and experience, not from waiting until you feel completely ready.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Many experienced professionals are retiring while demand for large-scale infrastructure investment continues to grow. That creates pressure on organizations to transfer knowledge, develop new talent, and rethink how we prepare the next generation of professionals.
If we approach this intentionally—by investing in mentorship, professional development, and inclusive leadership—we can build a stronger, more resilient industry that is better equipped to deliver the infrastructure our communities depend on.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Discipline has been a defining value for me. Balancing a career, raising two children, and maintaining creative pursuits has required structure, focus, and the willingness to keep moving forward even when things are challenging.
