Rising Stars at Thomas: Building the Next 20 Years
At Thomas Construction Group, people have always been the foundation of our success. As we celebrate 20 years of Always Building, we’re recognizing the next generation of leaders—the individuals shaping where Thomas is headed next.
These “Rising Stars” represent the energy, innovation, and collaboration that drive our culture forward. Whether they’re managing projects, supporting preconstruction, or leading marketing initiatives, each one helps to build Thomas’s future from the inside out.
Why They Joined—and Why They Stay
For many, it all began with the people.
Marketing Coordinator Jenna Cosentino was drawn to Thomas because of its genuine culture and sense of connection. “From day one, I felt welcomed into a team that truly values collaboration and connection,” she shares.
Project Engineer Grace Morrissey echoed that feeling. “I was drawn to Thomas because of its strong reputation—and the people who live up to it,” she explains. “This is a place where people support each other, and that’s exactly what I was looking for to grow in my career.”
For Ashton Penn, Estimating Coordinator, and Landon Battle, Project Engineer, it was the people who made Thomas stand out from day one. “The people I work with every day really make Thomas special,” Ashton says. “Everyone has your back and genuinely wants you to succeed,” adds Landon.
Defining Growth
Growth looks different for everyone—but for this group, it’s been constant.
“Over time, my role has evolved into something much bigger—connecting teams, sharing our story, and helping define how Thomas communicates its impact,” says Jenna. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to grow alongside the company.”
Grace has learned to balance planning with adaptability. “Flexibility is just as important as planning. Things don’t always go the way you expect but adapting while staying focused on the goal is key.”
For Landon, that growth has been hands-on. “I went from having very little experience as an intern to becoming a contributing member of the construction team,” he says. “I’ve learned to be a sponge—listening, learning, and absorbing everything I can.”
Culture & Mentorship
Thomas’s people-first culture is a common thread for each Rising Star.
“It feels less like a workplace and more like being part of a growing family,” says Jenna. “There’s a sense of trust from leadership that empowers us to do our best work.”
Grace admires how intentional Thomas is about its culture. “Many companies talk about culture, but Thomas takes real action to strengthen it,” she says. “Our 11 steps give us tangible ways to live it every day.”
For Ashton, that culture is supported by mentorship. “Annette Devore (senior estimator) has been a huge role model for me,” she says. “She’s a great example of what dedication and hard work can achieve.”
Landon points to ECU-Health Behavioral Health Hospital project team as mentors who shaped his career. “They were instrumental in my growth—both as mentors and as role models.”
Looking Ahead
Each Rising Star sees limitless opportunity ahead.
“Thomas is expanding into new markets and taking on projects that make a real impact,” says Jenna. “It’s inspiring to be part of that momentum.”
“We’ve built a strong foundation—now it’s about growth, exposure, and opportunity,” Grace adds.
“The potential here is limitless because of the people we have,” says Landon.
“I’m excited about the young crowd here and how leadership is investing in us,” Ashton shares.
Together, they embody what it means to be Always Building—not just structures, but careers, relationships, and the future of Thomas Construction Group.
