Her Story
About Jillianne
Jillianne Rothenberg is a civil engineer and project manager with 23 years of experience in the field. She began her career in 2005 as a drafter at Thomas and Hutton after earning an AutoCAD certification from Trident Technical College. She later obtained an associate's degree in science from Trident Technical College and a Bachelor of Science in Project Management from Charleston Southern University in 2016. Her career includes 13 years in the government sector focused on public service, civil engineering, stormwater inspection, enforcement, and permitting roles with Charleston County Government and the state. She is currently transitioning to entrepreneurship by starting her own business to assist clients with permitting and regulatory processes. She holds multiple certifications including CEPSC, OSHA 10, Stormwater 1, and others through DHEC and DOT. She recently received an APWA project award for work on the Central Park drainage project in James Island. Her career reflects a deep commitment to environmental compliance, infrastructure integrity, and helping organizations and individuals navigate complex regulatory requirements while drawing strength from her faith.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jillianne
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God every day. I thank him for everything he's given me and where he's put me in my life because I couldn't have done anything without him. My faith has given me the strength to power through situations that not many people could survive, including being a single parent, working full-time, and putting myself through college.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice is that the people and the environment that you're in depends on how you thrive. Working for people who really care about you, where you're not just a number, and the environment is positive with a boss helping you grow makes all the difference. My boss at Charleston County would give me books to read and help me grow my career, and he's still helping me even after I left.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You have to be strong and not let it bother you when contractors or others are mean and threatening. You can't let it be about you or take it personally. Stay strong and don't let it bother you or become about you. Show them that you know what you're talking about and mean business.
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