Q&A with Jenna Ford, Precinct 2's A/E Program Manager

1. Describe your role and how it impacts the lives of Precinct 2 residents.

Shaping Spaces That Shape Lives: As A/E Program Manager, I work alongside other architects and engineers to manage projects with a primary focus on “vertical” construction - including new ground-up facilities and renovations. While I manage the overall portfolio, I work alongside talented architects, engineers, and project partners to ensure projects are delivered in a timely manner, within budget, and meet community needs. These efforts directly impact residents by creating safe, functional, and welcoming spaces—such as community centers, health clinics, parks, and public facilities—that enhance quality of life across Precinct 2.

2. Can you describe a moment while working for Precinct 2 when you really felt the impact of your work?

When a Renovation became Personal: During a community center renovation, seniors voiced concerns about the closure through calls and petitions. For them, the center was more than a building—it was a lifeline for fellowship and belonging. When it closes, their daily rhythm and sense of community are disrupted. While we provide transportation to other centers, it’s like starting at a new school -- new faces, new routines, and the hope to belong. That realization hit home because I’ve experienced similar feelings when moving as a child. Our team realized closures aren’t just operational decisions, they’re ‘experience’ decisions. We worked together to minimize disruption and ensure residents felt valued. We want every resident to return and feel the renovation was worth it—like walking into a ‘new school’ full of opportunity and progress.

3. What or who inspired you to become an engineer?

From Art to Architecture: A Journey of Purpose: My journey into architecture was unexpected.It began in art, studying technique in high school and college. But after attending ‘starving artist’ sales, I questioned the stability of an art career and switched to architecture—a blend of creativity and practicality. With no female architects nearby, I searched for inspiration and found Norma Sklarek, often called the “Rosa Parks of Architecture,” and one of the first Black women licensed in the U.S. Her story resonated deeply with me. She broke barriers and designed with vision and purpose, and that gave me the confidence to pursue this path.

4. Women of color still comprise less than 2% of all engineering professionals and many face challenges in pursuit of their degrees and in the workplace. What advice or insight do you wish you would have received early in your career?

While women make up about 27% of architects, Black or African American individuals represent only about 1%. My advice: Find a mentor early—someone who will advocate for your growth and encourage your persistence. It doesn’t matter who they are; what matters is their support. And above all, don’t give up. Your voice, your perspective, and your presence matter. Stay persistent—you’re paving the way for others.

Norma Sklarek believed in mentorship too—she championed it as a way to help others succeed in architecture. Her example reminds us that mentorship isn’t just guidance; it’s a powerful tool for breaking barriers and creating opportunities. Mentorship can open doors, offer perspective, and remind you that you belong in spaces where you might feel underrepresented.

5. In honor of Black History Month, in what ways can we better recognize the contributions of Black professionals in engineering?

Recognizing Black Innovators in Engineering: The contributions of Black engineers are all around us, woven into everyday life. From pioneers like Lewis Howard Latimer, developed carbon filament for incandescent bulbs, to Garrett Morgan, inventor of the three-light traffic signal, and Alexander Miles, who created automatic elevator doors. We owe innovations to Walter Braithwaite (first CAD systems), Mark Dean (color IBM PC monitor), Alice Parker (gas heating furnace), Richard Spikes (paint roller), Lisa Gelobter (GIFs), James E. West (microphones), Dr. Shirley Jackson (Caller ID), Marie Van Brittan Brown (home security system), and Dr. Patricia Bath (laser cataract surgery)—just to name a few.

To better recognize these contributions, we must be intentional. I suggest:

• Highlight historical and contemporary role models in newsletters, social media, and events.
• Create targeted mentorship programs to support underrepresented talent.
• Engage with professional organizations that advocate for diversity in STEM.
• Celebrate new pioneers, like Kimberly Bryant, founder of Black Girls Code, which introduces young women of color to STEM fields.

Recognition isn’t just about history—it’s about visibility, opportunity, and inspiring the next generation.

Jenna Ford just celebrated one year with Precinct 2 but has worked for Harris County since 2019. Prior to working for Harris County, she spent two decades as an architectural designer at a prominent firm. She also has a twin sister who works for Precinct 1.