As the founder and CEO of Illuminating Growth PLLC and Managing Partner of Thomas and Associates PLLC, Jolsna Thomas holds down two demanding positions. She provides legal and business consulting for nonprofit and mission-driven organizations, especially in the construction industry. She is licensed to practice law in California and Texas. That’s impressive but Jolsna sees a greater purpose in her work, which is helping improve the lives of others.

Jolsna started her career in construction as an in-house counsel for Operating Engineers Local Union No. 3, the largest construction local union in North America, with over 40,000 workers in a four-state jurisdiction (Hawaii, Northern California, Northern Nevada, and Utah). “I provided legal guidance to the union, its 501c3s, represented workers in arbitrations, labor board proceedings, and other legal forums,” she says. “I loved helping workers advance their careers and livelihoods through collective bargaining. I got into the industry because I wanted to help workers better their lives.”

It’s what she loves most about her work. “Being able to help people and organizations reach their full potential is my ultimate goal. I have met incredible people who strive to improve the industry, and I am proud to join them.

It hasn’t been without obstacles. Jolsna describes overcoming stereotypes and gender biases. “While some doors remain closed because of implicit biases, others have opened because of inclusive mindsets seeking out the best people to help carry out their missions. Navigating inclusion and belonging in a hostile environment while legally supporting workforce development efforts to bring in new workers to the industry is a kind of balancing act. The industry continues to grow rapidly, and we need more people to join us in building. But the rules are changing, and legal precedent is being reversed, which requires creative thinking to not just survive but excel. Ultimately, I hope to see true inclusion and promotion of women in career advancement to the C-suite of companies.”

When asked about her proudest accomplishments, she breaks it down, “From a career advancement standpoint, becoming promoted to the House Counsel at OE3, leading the legal department, and then being asked by the Rosendin CEO to lead its charitable arm. But life-wise, launching construction camps for middle schoolers nationally and helping them to work safely and confidently with tools. The future of the industry is our youth. When we open the doors of the industry to permit those not from the industry to understand the opportunities available and show that they too can be successful, it’s truly creating positive change.”

She describes how NAWIC has played an important role in her career. “NAWIC has provided me with a safe space to learn and grow with others in the industry. It is a wonderful organization filled with women who strive to support one another and advance women in the industry. For me, it’s the cheering squad you never knew you needed.”

She sees her future career goals as serving on the boards of companies and nonprofits, challenging the status quo and fighting for the rights of our workers and the industry’s advancement. “Illuminating Growth is helping construction companies with succession and sales so the next generation can take the tools to build. One of my clients bought her uncle’s roofing business and is learning the trade while building opportunities for others, not just within her family but the broader community.”

Jolsna has this advice for women considering a career in construction, “It never hurts to try it out and see if it is a good fit for you. Make sure to really see if the company culture is a fit for your ambitions and values. When you find the right fit, you will be incredibly successful. This is hard work, but women with incredible attention to detail and multitasking skills are especially successful in construction. Not all roles require muscles if you learn how to use the tools properly.”

If you know of a NAWIC member that deserves to be recognized as a Best Person for the Job, contact us today!