Jesse R. Penn III, MEM, EIT, M.ASCE

President & CEO

Jesse founded Penn Design Group, LLC (PDG) in 2012, applying his extensive structural engineering design and project management of commercial construction projects. Today, his team of uniquely experienced professionals provides planning and management assistance to owners and organizations faced with the challenges of building and renovating new and existing facilities.

After receiving an associates and bachelors degree, Jesse went to work with various Architecture and Engineering firms in his home state of Virginia. Throughout his career, he has gained experience in the design of buildings in the higher education, religious, government and health care industries. These assignments has enabled him to establish long lasting relationships with many of Virginia’s well-known colleges and universities, such Virginia State University, University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Union University and Old Dominion University to name a few.

It was while pursuing a master’s degree where Jesse tapped into his management strengths and capabilities in construction and his established relationships with local entities. It wasn’t long after this realization when Penn Design Group, LLC was born.

As President/CEO of PDG, Jesse oversees all of the projects in and out of the office. Together with his capable and experienced professional staff, Jesse works diligently with the entire project team to enable clients to achieve maximum value for each dollar spent.

Education:
  • Masters of Engineering Management (Civil Engineering Emphasis)
    Old Dominion University – Norfolk, VA
  • Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering (Structural Emphasis)
    Old Dominion University – Norfolk, VA
  • Associates in Applied Sciences in Building Construction and a specialization in Architecture and Civil Engineering Technology
    Virginia Western Community College – Roanoke, VA
Professional Association:
  • Virginia Society of Professional Engineers (VSPE) – Member
  • National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) – Member
  • National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) – Member
  • American Society of Civil Engineets (ASCE) = Member
  • Project Management Institute (PMI) – Member
Licenses & Certifications:
  • Commonwealth of Virginia Engineer-In-Training (EIT)
Community Activities:
  • Old Dominion University Black Alumni Chapter – Richmond Representative
Honors:
  • Academic Alliance for Excellence Award
  • Golden Key International Honour Society

3