Donna Vargo

Education:

Bachelor of Science degree in industrial science/construction technology from Fitchburg State College in Worcester, Mass. Graduated Magna Cum Laude.

Professional Affiliations/Membership:

• CREW San Diego
• Construction Leadership Network

Community Service:

Helped develop J&J’s internship program at The Academy of Our Lady of Peace, in conjunction with J&J’s OLP Boundless Project, an $18 million historical renovation and new campus build. An “onsite learning lab,” the goal of the internship is to introduce the opportunities of the commercial construction industry to help shape educational and professional paths.

Awards/Recognitions:

• 2020 CEO of the Year Finalist, San Diego Business Journal
• 2020, 2019 and 2018 recognized by the San Diego Business Journal in its list of San Diego’s 500 Most Influential People
• San Diego Magazine “Women of the Year” 2017
• In 2015 honored by Bisnow as one of the 50 most influential women in San Diego Commercial Real Estate.
• “Women Who Mean Business” award 2000, presented by the San Diego Business Journal
• TWIN Award Recipient (a Tribute to Women in Industry), presented by the YWCA

Fun Fact:

Began her career alongside her father as a cabinetmaker.

Hobbies:

A consummate party planner, the “hostess with the mostess,” a classic cook and an enthusiastic entertainer.

As J&J’s President and CEO, Donna oversees the company’s strategic planning and long-term growth, as well as all day to day company operations.

Donna’s strong leadership of J&J is the culmination of her experience and insight gleaned from over three decades in the construction industry. With a tireless work ethic, she leads the company with foresight and enthusiasm, an unwavering commitment to the company’s core values and dedication to her employees’ growth and well-being.

In 2013, Donna and partner Naomi Lohnes jointly acquired J&J. Since then, company revenue has surged by 50 percent and the firm has expanded into Orange, Los Angeles and Riverside counties. In 2018, J & J obtained a contracting license in the state of Washington, where it now handles multiple projects.

Prior to joining J&J in 2004 to take over the day-to-day operations, she worked for Roel Construction Co., Inc., where she worked her way up the ranks from project manager to Executive Vice President in charge of the tenant improvement and special projects group throughout California.

A longtime member of CREW San Diego, Donna is passionate about moving women forward in the commercial construction industry.

The Academy of Our Lady of Peace, an $18 million multi-phased historical remodel and building addition on the Catholic all-girls school campus in University Heights.

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