Each year, Engineering News Record (ENR), the construction industry’s premier publication, searches for the best and brightest in construction, recognizing individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and service throughout their career.
ENR Southwest’s top 20 professionals were judged by three primary criteria: industry experience and education; career and industry leadership; and community service and involvement. This year, Sundt is lucky to have two exceptional women recognized on ENR Southwest’s list: Project Manager Lindsay Penzenstadler and Senior Project Manager Janene Thomas.
Lindsay and Janene have contributed to some of Sundt’s hallmark transportation projects, but perhaps more importantly, have inspired their teams in the process. “Both Lindsay and Janene began their careers with Sundt as interns,” said Transportation Area Manager Jeff Krobot. “They’re self-starters who tackle problems head-on, and create collaborative environments, putting their teams and our customers first.”
Lindsay Penzenstadler has 10 years of industry experience. She has held the roles of field engineer, project engineer and project manager for infrastructure improvement projects across Arizona. “I think some of my proudest accomplishments include being part of the civil self-perform teams for Banner University Medical Center Tucson, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel and Casino Expansion and Union Tempe,” said Lindsay. Those projects went on to win several prestigious industry awards.
“Lindsay is an amazing problem-solver and communicator. She is skilled in identifying potential conflicts in the preconstruction phase of a project and transferring it over to the project team during construction. Her ability to establish and maintain professional relationships demonstrates why owners select Sundt to build their projects.” —Daniel Bowerman, Chief Estimator
Janene Thomas has honed her experience across multiple markets and geographies throughout her 18 years with Sundt. Her career journey led her to building projects across Arizona, Texas and California. She’s contributed to significant ADOT projects in Phoenix, such as the SR 202 Red Mountain Widening and the SR101L HOV Lane Design-Build Projects. “I’ve had the privilege to work on some awesome projects, but most recently, our team completed the Northwest Phoenix Water and Wastewater Development master package for the City of Phoenix. I’m proud of that project, our team and the recognition it has received.”
“Janene has shown incredible leadership skills while facing issues in the field and keeping owners pleased with the quality of work and schedule of the project. She has also been a great mentor, enhancing the careers of young field and project engineers. Janene embodies what it means to be a great builder.”—Daniel Bowerman, Chief Estimator
What stood out on ENR Southwest’s list this year are the number of women named with the honor. “I think it’s incredibly important to see so many women on the list this year,” said Lindsay. “The more women who are recognized and promoted in construction, the more visible this career path becomes for other women.”
Inspired by Lindsay and Janene? Check out our available openings.