Women Who Build West Michigan: Featuring Jessica Conrad

Jessica Conrad is a business owner and project manager at Modern Day Design. Her path into construction was not a traditional one, but through curiosity, hard work and a commitment to customer service, Jessica has become one of many successful women making an impact in the construction field.

How did you start working in construction?

My path into construction started behind the scenes. I started by managing bookkeeping and business operations for a roofing company, which gave me my first look into the industry. Later, during a life transition, I needed more flexibility for my family. So, I connected with someone I knew through remodeling work, and the timing felt right for us to start something new together. Within about a month, we launched Modern Day Design with a third partner, and we have been growing ever since.

Was construction always your plan?

Not at all. After high school, I attended Ferris State University and earned a degree in Ultrasound Technology. Like many people, life took me in a different direction. Between raising a family and changing priorities, I stepped away from that field and began building a career in the trades instead. Looking back, it reminds me that career paths are not always a straight line, and opportunities can come from unexpected places.

What do you enjoy most about working in the trades?

One of my favorite parts is supporting my clients and bringing a personal touch to the remodeling process. Construction is still often seen as a male-dominated field, and I believe there is value in women bringing clear communication, patience and attention to detail to the industry. For many clients, remodeling can feel overwhelming, so I enjoy helping them feel comfortable, informed and cared for during the entire project.

How have you gained knowledge about the industry?

I am still learning all the time, and that is part of the job I enjoy most! Much of my growth has come from asking questions, taking on my own home projects and learning directly from my business partners. I have always wanted to understand not just how something is done, but why it is done that way. That curiosity has helped me build confidence and continue growing my skillset.

What is your role within Modern Day Design?

I am a part-owner and business manager. I meet with clients, take measurements, prepare estimates, manage the books, coordinate schedules, order materials, and help oversee projects from start to finish. I also take pride in the final touches. At the end of any project, I make sure the space is clean and ready for the client to enjoy. We want people to feel cared for from the first meeting to the final walkthrough.

What makes your company’s approach unique?

We focus on relationships and attention to detail. Remodeling is a big investment, and clients trust us with their homes and daily lives for weeks at a time. Because of that, we try to leave every space better than we found it. We clean thoroughly, focus on small details, and leave a personalized gift basket at the end of a project. Those touches matter, and they reflect the kind of experience we want clients to have.

Have you faced challenges as a woman in construction?

There have been times it felt intimidating to ask questions or step into spaces that were not always welcoming. Early on, sometimes I worked with people who were dismissive when I did not know a term or needed clarification. Over time, I have learned not to let that stop me.  I kept asking questions, kept learning and kept building confidence in what I brought to the table. That persistence has made a big difference.

Have you found support within the industry?

Absolutely. Along with the challenges, I have met many people who have been welcoming, helpful and encouraging. That support has come from partners, subcontractors, designers and others in the field who were willing to share knowledge and trust me in my role. Having both challenge and support has shaped my experience and shown me the importance of creating a more welcoming future for women in construction.

What advice would you give to other women who are interested in construction? Start small and stay curious. If you are interested, try a job shadow, take on a small project at home, or even start with a support role like bookkeeping or project coordination. You can learn a lot by being around the work and asking questions. Construction offers many different paths, and there is room for women in all of them. If it interests you, do not be afraid to step in and see where it can lead!