With 20+ years of experience, Jen Kalin is a stand-out leader exemplifying dedication and expertise in the architecture and engineering sector. Her portfolio spans a diverse array of projects, including public buildings, commercial spaces, warehouses, manufacturing plants, and administrative offices. And her comprehensive skill set encompasses everything from programming and schematic design to construction administration and project finalization.
She has excelled as both a project manager and lead architect on nearly 15 multi-year On-Call/IDIQ contracts for municipalities and public agencies. Jen has also spearheaded dozens of building additions, improvements, and new construction across the government, commercial, and manufacturing sectors, with a particular knack for service and maintenance facilities.
Jen is highly regarded not just for her design skills and project management capabilities, but also for her excellence in client service. Her approach to client relationships is defined by dedication. She believes in being a partner to her clients, ensuring she is always available when needed.
"I would like to think that my experience and attentiveness benefit the client. I believe that you are a partner of the client, and you need to be available when they need you," she says.
Jen’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed; in 2018, she was named to Engineering News-Record Midwest’s Top Young Construction and Design Professionals under 40, recognizing her extraordinary portfolio, community service, and innovative solutions.
Portfolio Highlights
Jen’s path into architecture was deeply influenced by her father, a contractor. Growing up, she was constantly surrounded by construction activities, playing not with typical toys but with 2x4 scraps. "Other kids played with Lincoln Logs (I am dating myself) but I played with 2x4 scraps," she recalls. This early exposure instilled in her a passion for the built environment and set her on a path toward a career in architecture.
Fast forward to today, and she has built a successful career in architecture with a massive portfolio. When asked to think of some the most memorable projects, she identified several. The first, from her early career, was a mixed-use development in southern California. The project, designed to pay homage to the old downtown, involved an array of exterior building materials, which ended up being a formative experience.
“Being in the beginning of my career it was a great project to work on because I learned how to detail and implement so many different materials; without this project, I may not have had that experience,” Jen says.
Another memorable project was also one of her most challenging. About 10 years ago, Jen managed the construction of a service garage, and the project faced significant hurdles as the original design team was no longer available when construction began. When unexpected issues arose in the field, Jen and her team had to adapt quickly, often without knowing the original design intent.
"When things came up in the field and design had to be adjusted, we didn’t know why things were the way that they were and had to adjust," she recalls. Despite these challenges, the collaborative effort between the team, owner, REW, and the contractor led to a successful outcome, and they remain friends to this day.
Speaking of service garages, while Jen has had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of project types in her career, she will tell you that these facilities hold a special place in her heart. As she explains, these buildings are often the last to be updated in a portfolio. Further, the users typically seek practical and efficient solutions rather than extravagant designs. While some may find these projects humdrum, she finds great satisfaction in fulfilling these needs and making the users happy.
"They just want a place that allows them to do their job efficiently. There is something wonderful about making people happy," she says.
Further reflecting on her career, Jen acknowledges two significant influences. Her father’s teachings instilled in her the importance of understanding both the design and construction aspects of buildings.
"My dad impacted me at an early age to love this industry. He taught me the art of buildings and why it is important to not only know how to design a building but also to understand how they are built. All the education in the world can’t replace hands-on experience," she recounts. Additionally, an early-career boss, known for being strict and demanding, played a crucial role in shaping her professional standards. "Early in my architecture career, I had a boss who was strict, demanding, very detailed, and didn’t accept anything less than being great. I didn’t realize at the time how beneficial she was in shaping my career until I had to implement what she taught me on my own. I didn’t appreciate her nearly enough when I was working with her, but I thank her all the time, still to this day. I learned so much from her on many levels," she acknowledges.
Jen’s Take on The REW Difference
Experience and communication are what Jen believes set REW apart in handling government and commercial projects. Navigating the bureaucracy of government work requires a deep understanding of the unique challenges each project presents. REW conducts in-house training to ensure everyone is prepared. "Government work often comes with its own set of challenges – you have to know how to navigate the 'red tape,' and every government entity is a little different. You need to know how to pivot. We do trainings in house so that everyone knows what to look for and make sure we have it covered," she explains. Communication is equally critical, particularly in responding to clients' needs quickly and ensuring projects stay on track and within budget.
"On both the government and commercial side (and all areas of our business) communication is so important. Often, we are faced with how quickly and cost-effectively we can get opened. Maybe a date that a construction contract must be in place to receive the funding. You need to listen to your client so you can respond to their wants and needs effectively," she adds.
For Jen, client satisfaction and long-term relationships are built on experience, attentiveness, and communication. She views the relationship between her firm and clients as a partnership, where mutual support and problem-solving are key. Being transparent and communicative, even when the answer is not immediately available, helps build trust and demonstrates that the client's needs are a priority.
"I believe that we are more partners than we are owner/consultant. I want my clients to know that I am here for them, and I will help them work through whatever it is that they are dealing with on a daily basis. Their problems are my problems," she asserts.
This philosophy extends to her leadership of project teams, where she fosters innovation and creativity by encouraging members to think creatively and explore new solutions. "I always encourage everyone to think outside the box and think of different ways that we can handle a situation. Just because we haven’t done it before doesn’t mean we can’t. It just means we need to figure out how," she emphasizes.
On The Horizon
Looking ahead, Jen sees several trends shaping the future of government and commercial architecture and engineering. The ebb and flow of A/E/C projects with the economy necessitate flexibility and adaptability. "A project still may go forward but maybe, it now needs to be phased or scaled back and we need to help our clients navigate this process," she notes. In addition, energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important as efforts to preserve natural resources intensify. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally changed how people live and work, with more people working from home and a greater emphasis on community amenities.
"The pandemic changed how we live our lives. More people are working from home than they ever have, and there is more emphasis on community amenities that were discovered in 2020 and 2021 to be lacking. We were forced to adjust to a new way of life, and some of the things that were implemented during 2020-2021 were found to be beneficial and have stuck around," she observes. These changes will drive adjustments in financing, designing, and constructing the built environment.
Jen stays updated on the latest industry developments and technologies by continuously learning. This extends beyond formal education to engaging with the community, staying informed about trends, and understanding the impact of global events on daily work.
"You have to continue to learn. This doesn’t mean just CEUs or seminars. Get out in the community and see what is going on; what are clients, companies, and professionals doing. Stay up on the trends and how world events impact what you do daily," she advises. She avidly reads business journals and other publications to keep a pulse on the economy and industry shifts.
Unmatched Passion & Zest for Life – Personal & Professional
Jen’s energy and motivation to succeed comes from a genuine love for her work.
"I have always loved what I do. There is something deeply fulfilling about bringing someone’s idea, need, or dream to life," she enthuses. Each day brings something different, and Jen thrives on the variety, new relationships, and the chance to work with a diverse team. "I love meeting new people and working with my team of co-workers, clients, consultants, and contractors. I love building relationships and becoming a trusted partner," she says.
Outside of work, Jen enjoys cooking—a passion she has nurtured since childhood with her mother and grandmother. "I love to cook. I would cook for an army if I could. I have been cooking most of my life starting from a young age," she shares. (Fun fact: Jen used to make all the food for REW’s many themed staff lunches!) Jen also loves hands-on activities like painting and creating. Spending time with family and friends, especially around good food, is a cherished pastime.
"I love spending time with family and friends, especially if food is involved," she adds.
Jen's personal life is as rich and fulfilling as her professional one. She is married, has two beautiful daughters who keep her on her toes, and has two very spoiled dogs – Harvey, a Pitbull, and Ollie a Bernadoodle. She is originally from Pennsylvania, so although she and her family live in Ohio, she is still a Penn State fan; though, the compromise with her husband was that in the NFL they root for the Browns!