Elevations

Spring 2026

A national JE Dunn Construction employee publication

MANAGING EDITOR
Ben Hobbs
EDITOR

Becky Storm

On The Level

by: Gordon Lansford

From the CEO

What makes JE Dunn special has always been our people. Whether leading projects, mentoring teammates, pursuing passions outside of work, or finding new ways to grow personally and professionally, you all bring energy, care, and purpose to everything you do.

That’s why this edition of Elevations is centered on our guiding principle “We believe in fun and fulfilling lives.” While this looks different for everyone, it often comes from the balance of meaningful careers, strong relationships, personal well-being, and the opportunity to pursue what matters most outside the office and jobsite.

Across JE Dunn, you all are doing meaningful, satisfying work while being your authentic selves. From employees with fascinating hobbies and passions beyond work to projects like the Colorado State University Veterinary Hospital and Education Complex — which is helping create better experiences for students, staff, and the future of animal care — our people find fulfillment in unique and inspiring ways.

Our culture of working hard and having fun make JE Dunn a great place to work, and I am proud that it’s also a place where our people can build rewarding lives.

Biridiana Guerrero
Project Manager 1
Austin, TX
"

Helping shape the next generation of leaders by bringing Evans Scholars Foundation opportunities to students in Texas fulfills me.

"
Sam Swanson
Project Manager 2
Minneapolis, MN
"

I have a 6-year-old and a 3-year-old, and watching them grow fills my bucket.

"
Natalie Huntley
Senior Precon and Estimating Manager
Omaha, NE
"

One of the more fulfilling things for me is I’m a mom of two, ages 7 and 8. They’re a joy.

"
Scott Pashman
General Superintendent
Denver, CO
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Wood carving brings me a lot of satisfaction, both in that I have the capability to do it and know that it’s going to bring somebody enjoyment and happiness.

"

Belonging & Marketplace Engagement

By: Susan Schaefer
National Chair, Moment Connection

In construction, a moment connection is one of the strongest joints between two steel components to transfer forces between them. We know that, like construction components, our people are stronger together, which is why we named our women-focused Employee Resource Group (ERG) “Moment Connection.” Now, Moment Connection is celebrating 10 years of memories and looking forward to a future of momentum.

For the last decade, Moment Connection has focused on strengthening relationships and building a strong network among women at JE Dunn while educating and equipping them for success. In an industry where women make up only a small percentage of the workforce, it’s especially important that we create opportunities for connection and support, allowing women to lean on each other and feel they belong on jobsites, in trailers, and in offices.

1+5 With Yalda Akbarpour

Senior Safety Specialist
West Region
What is something no one else knows about you?

I am an adrenaline junkie. 

If you could have lunch with anyone, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

My grandfather. He lived to be 105 and had many stories about our family, the struggles of being immigrants, and fleeing Afghanistan during the war. I loved hearing stories of how beautiful our country was before the wars happened. 

What was your favorite vacation and why?

I’ve been to Portugal multiple times in different parts, and love it more and more each time. The food, people, and beauty are unmatched. I would love to go back and visit Madeira next! 

What are you currently doing that you really enjoy and why?

Going on hikes and visiting more national parks. I’m going to Moab and Mt. Rainier within the next few months. 

What’s your claim to fame?

My family has had a couple of successful restaurants in NorCal, getting coverage on the morning news and in the local newspaper. 

Articles

Regional Updates

Throughout our 26 JE Dunn offices, building, giving, and people are at the heart of what we do. Click below to see more of the great things happening throughout our regions.