Melanie Jefferies, PMP, DASM, is Chief Operating Officer, Engineering Services for Milhouse Engineering and Construction and Owner/Principal of Milhouse Development. A second-generation leader in the Milhouse family of companies, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s strategy, growth, and operational excellence while advancing projects that strengthen communities and create lasting economic impact.
With more than 13 years of experience in the architecture, engineering, construction, and real estate industries, Melanie oversees operational execution across a significant portion of the Milhouse enterprise, aligning business development, finance, talent, quality, and project delivery to drive sustainable growth. Her leadership has helped guide the company’s expansion from approximately 100 employees to more than 300, positioning Milhouse as one of the nation’s leading minority-owned engineering and construction firms.
As the founder of Milhouse Development, Melanie has expanded the family of companies into community-centered real estate development and investment. Under her leadership, the firm has pursued transformative projects that promote neighborhood revitalization, equitable economic development, affordable housing, and sustainable growth throughout Chicago and beyond. Milhouse Development was selected by the City of Chicago as a co-developer for the Missing Middle Housing Initiative, bringing new homeownership opportunities to South Side neighborhoods and supporting long-term community investment.
Recognized as a rising leader in the industry, Melanie has been honored as an ENR Midwest Top Young Professional, a Chicago Titan 100 Honoree, Bisnow Women Leading Real Estate Leader of the Year, and an ICSC CenterBuild Leader Under 40. She is actively involved in civic and industry organizations and serves on the boards of City Year Chicago, Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, Milhouse Engineering and Construction, and Milhouse Charities.
Melanie holds a master’s degree from The George Washington University, a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Passionate about leadership, innovation, and community impact, she is committed to building businesses and partnerships that create opportunity for future generations.
