2023 40 Under 40: Jerry Manavalan, 32

Growing up in Yonkers, New York, Manavalan exhibited an aptitude for math and science from an early age. He attended a science-focused high school where he participated in the ACE (architecture, construction and engineering) Mentor Program before studying electrical engineering. Upon graduation from Manhattan College, he joined Kohler Ronan where he has worked on electrical systems for landmarks and historical buildings such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and the Thomas Jefferson Rotunda at the University of Virginia. According to his peers, Manavalan approaches each project with a creative outlook and is always proactive in proposing additional thoughts and ideas on how best to limit the visual and material impact of implementing new building systems into historic spaces, structures and sites. Moreover, he is a natural leader whose innate curiosity and spirit of teamwork have resulted in well-coordinated, multidisciplinary design strategies and successful construction projects. Outside of work, Manavalan is engaged in substantial community outreach. He is now a guest mentor in the same ACE program in which he participated during his younger years. As a mentor, Manavalan guides and instructs groups of approximately 20 students, as they workshop ideas resulting in the simulated design and construction of a building project. In addition to working with ACE, Manavalan volunteers as a mentor with the Connecticut chapter of Professional Women in Construction, an organization that promotes and supports females in the fields of engineering and construction. Manavalan attributes his success to the quality and support of his wife, parents, family, friends and colleagues.

Do you have experience and expertise with the topics mentioned in this content? You should consider contributing to our CFE Media editorial team and getting the recognition you and your company deserve. Click here to start this process.