2019 Women in Construction: Jahnavi Patel, Production at CBI Consulting, LLC

Years in Current Field: 4

Which project, deal or transaction was the “game changer” in the advancement of your career during the last 10 years? My move to the United States to pursue master’s in Architecture was definitely the biggest game changer. It opened my life to innovative new social network that taught me how different aspects of construction collaborate with each other and share their information. I am now proud of my creative and communication skills and working for CBI Consulting LLC had enabled me to track and assess many details of each project.

What are you doing differently in 2019 that has had a positive impact on your career? After graduating in December 2018, this year has given me opportunity to focus full time on my work and understanding the phases of construction, going on site visits, etc. Meeting with clients and representatives has enabled me to expand my knowledge base and will give me the background necessary to eventually lead a project in future.

What was your first job and what did you learn from it? My first job was in Mumbai, India. it was the first time I ever worked in an office and it was a completely new life for me. l got the opportunity to apply the skills that I had learned in school in real life. It taught me how to balance work and my personal life which I have found necessary to a healthy and successful career. 

Who are three women – living or dead – that you would like to have drinks with and why?
1. Zada Hadid -She made a mark for herself in the Industry even though her work was out of the box.
2. Odile Decq- She was bold, had her own creative power house, had her values on Architecture and went further when she decided to open a new school where the educational framework erases the traditional academic structures and the ideologies.
3. Jeanne Gang- Her innovative movements towards sustainability and implementing design techniques involving using recycled materials to conserve resources and increase biodiversity are current world issues. 

What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? My biggest fear was not meeting others’ expectations. However, I quickly learned to be bold and not let that fear engulf me and I decided to stay confident every day.