Under the Hard Hat with Jonathan Nasser

June 4, 2021

Under the Hard Hat with Jonathan Nasser

At Clark, we are proud to be made up of individuals from a variety of backgrounds and talents who thrive and succeed together. Our “Under the Hard Hat” series is designed to showcase the diverse people who make up the Clark team.

Clark is proud to support our LGBTQ+ employees and stands firm in our commitment to fostering an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging and empowered to be their full, authentic selves. 

We recently sat down with Jonathan Nasser, an engineer in Clark’s Mid-Atlantic Region, to learn about his background and time with Clark.

Jonathan Nasser
Tell us about yourself.

I was born in Venezuela and moved to Tampa, Florida, when I was four where I spent the rest of my childhood and teenage years. Upon high school graduation, I moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to attend Louisiana State University (LSU).

Growing up in Florida, I spent a lot of time outside with friends wakeboarding, golfing, and playing games.

What are your responsibilities at Clark? 

I am currently working as an engineer on a multi-family high-rise building in Bethesda, Maryland, where I am responsible for overseeing finish trades estimates, which entails trade contractor outreach, creating and scoping work, reviewing drawings for constructability issues, submitting RFIs, and leveling bids. 

What led you to pursue a career in the A/E/C industry?

I knew that I wanted to work with buildings. One career day in high school, I signed up to learn about real estate development, but it was full, so I was placed in the construction management class. It ended up being a blessing in disguise. The presentation piqued my curiosity and I met with the presenter for coffee twice after that to learn more about the industry. From there, I knew I wanted to major in construction management and pursue a career in this industry. I love the fast-paced nature of the business and being able to be creative and inquisitive to solve critical issues.

What brought you to Clark? 

My grandmother suggested I apply! She had always seen Clark’s big blue signs in the area and was aware of Clark’s presence in Florida. I received an offer to join the Clark team as a summer associate in 2016, spending three summers with Clark. After my third summer, I was offered a full-time position with the company.

Who have been your strongest influences in life? 

Definitely my two grandfathers. They've taught me how to treat people, how to thrive in my career, the value of family and friends, as well as a myriad of sayings to live by. 

What is a fact about you that many people may not know?

I competed on LSU’s wakeboarding team!

What is your favorite thing about working at Clark? 

It's the people. Very few companies provide the feeling that you're working with some of the brightest, most considerate, and team-oriented people. It's a fantastic feeling. 
 

What does Pride Month mean to you?

Pride is a reminder of the past, the present, and the future - both positive and negative, and to be proud of who I am. Of equal importance, Pride also gives me a strong sense of unity within my community - an inexpressibly endearing feeling. 

What excites you about the future?

The societal progression I've seen with regards to all types of discrimination in the past 10 years excites me for the future.

What does it look like to be a strong ally to the LGBTQ+ community?

A strong ally has genuine care for the community. They stay informed on related news and current issues and are activists when appropriate. They speak up against hate, listen to our concerns, and lobby towards an all-inclusive future. 

What advice would you give to LGBTQ+ youth looking to get into the construction industry?

Don't be afraid. The construction industry can seem very intimidating, but it is constantly adapting to be a more inclusive workspace. Hold your head high, and work hard - your personal success will follow.

What does "Thrive as You, Succeed Together” mean to you? 

The words "Thrive as You, Succeed Together" are encouraging, however, the meaning of these words highlights the significance of the programs Clark is putting in place to ensure anyone can be comfortable and succeed at Clark.