Leading with Legacy: Jessica Scrabeck’s Journey in Construction
Meet Jessica Scrabeck, President of Sonus Interiors, whose journey into construction was both personal and unexpected. Growing up in the industry, she spent summers installing ceilings, but her path first led her to a career as an actuary. When she joined Sonus in 2021, she brought with her a deep appreciation for hard work, mentorship, and the power of in-person collaboration.
Jessica shares her experiences as a woman in construction, how the industry has evolved, and her advice for others looking to enter the field.
Read her story and join the conversation about the future of women in construction.
For Jessica Scrabeck, construction isn’t just a career—it’s a part of her family. As the daughter of Sonus Interiors’ founder, Mike Reinhart, Jessica grew up surrounded by the industry, spending summers in the field as a ceiling installer. Those hands-on experiences instilled a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and hard work that define construction.
Yet, Jessica’s path to leading Sonus Interiors wasn’t linear. Before joining the family business in 2021, she built a career as an actuary—a field, like construction, often dominated by men. Her early experiences in STEM helped her develop the confidence to speak up, ask questions, and embrace challenges, lessons that have served her well in her construction leadership role she is in now as President of Sonus Interiors.
When the time came to transition to Sonus, Jessica saw an opportunity not only to continue her father’s legacy but to foster an environment where teamwork and in-person collaboration thrive. “One of the biggest reasons I joined Sonus was because I do my best work when I’m alongside others,” she shares. That hands-on, team-driven approach is what makes construction unique—and what fuels her passion for the industry.
While the construction field has historically been male-dominated, Jessica’s experience has been one of support and recognition for her work ethic. “When I started working for Sonus 20+ years ago, I made it a point to work harder and faster than expected—so no one could say Mike’s daughter wasn’t pulling her weight!” she recalls. And while challenges still exist, she acknowledges the industry’s progress: “It’s encouraging to see more women in leadership, availability of mentorship programs, and companies actively fostering a supportive environment. It’s encouraging to be part of an industry that continues to evolve for the better.”
As she looks ahead, Jessica remains committed to ensuring Sonus Interiors continues to be a company that values hard work, collaboration, and excellence. Her advice to women considering a career in construction? “Just like in any industry, if you are a hard worker and try to help others in any situation you’re put into, your coworkers—male and female—will want to work alongside you.”
Jessica’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of strong mentorship. As the construction industry evolves, leaders like her are paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic future.