Passing the Torch: A Family Legacy at Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.  

Passing the Torch: A Family Legacy at Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.  

In a significant moment for Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc. (Milhouse), a shift in leadership marks a pivotal milestone in the company’s history.  Melanie Jefferies has stepped into the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Production and Delivery, Engineering Services, poised to eventually assume the seat of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) where her father, Wilbur C. Milhouse III, currently sits. Melanie emphasizes the honor, stating, “This role has been held by a long-time family friend, Joe Zurad, for over 17 years. It’s an honor to inherit his knowledge and wisdom as he passes the torch to me. I’m thrilled to forge my own path as the first female COO over Engineering.” 

Growing up in the Milhouse family, Melanie Jefferies always anticipated her role in the family business. Her journey took unexpected turns, leading her to pursue a career in the A&E industry with a unique blend of expertise in organization science and psychology. “Growing up, I was certain I would follow in my father’s footsteps as a Civil Engineer. However, in my third year of undergrad, I faced a devastating moment when I had to change majors. Struggling with an undiagnosed learning disability, I found myself at a crossroads that ultimately altered the trajectory of my career,” Melanie reflected. “I now see it as a twist of fate because, as it turns out, an engineering degree wasn’t the sole prerequisite for effectively leading this organization. Running a successful operation demands a myriad of skills, and while I hold great respect for and understand what our engineers contribute, I equally appreciate and respect the essential roles played by every facet of our operations. It’s a collective effort that ensures our success.” 

Melanie’s career within Milhouse has been deliberately crafted to encompass various facets of the business, including operations, project development, and work under some of our senior engineers. Melanie shares, “For over a decade, I’ve dedicated myself to building credibility. While not always in the forefront, I’ve had the privilege of direct mentorship under our core leadership. Since graduating college, I’ve actively contributed to implementing pivotal changes within the company, playing a significant role in executing initiatives across the entire organization.”  

Her knowledge in organizational science, combined with her experience with a wide array of Milhouse teams, gives Melanie the skill set to prioritize the needs of Milhouse team members, streamline processes, execute strategies, and live and breathe the Milhouse vision of improving communities worldwide. With a focus on operational excellence and diversity, Melanie has championed initiatives that prioritize inclusivity and innovation. Her leadership style reflects these principles, fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard and valued.   

A significant aspect of the Milhouse legacy that Melanie holds dear is Milhouse Development, an affiliate company she built from the ground up with her father’s support. This venture, established in 2019, is a testament to Melanie’s commitment to bringing opportunities to communities and contributing to the success of Milhouse. Projects planned by Milhouse Development such as the new mixed-use development land known as the Grove,  aim to make a positive impact on communities through job generation and community expansion. Melanie envisions Milhouse Development as an integral part of the Milhouse legacy, aiming to leave a lasting imprint on communities, aligning with the core values of active diversity, constant quality, fierce integrity, and intentional safety that define Milhouse’s culture.  

Melanie is diligently preparing for her inevitable transition to CEO by prioritizing the well-being of the company’s team members and ensuring financial stability. She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong relationships with external partners and clients rooted in transparency and trust. Acknowledging her father’s legacy, Melanie expresses gratitude for the opportunity to stand by his side and support the company and its family of companies. “As I strive towards the role of CEO, the gravity of the situation becomes apparent – an organization of over 500 individuals and their families will depend on me for the security of their paychecks every month. I was taught the importance of taking this responsibility to my people seriously, and I consider it an honor to have the opportunity to do so.”  

For Melanie, the legacy of Milhouse is not just a family affair but a commitment to building a better future for communities and individuals alike. In this pivotal moment, Melanie reflects on her journey. “Family business can be tough; every day and decision I make is under the critical eye of the CEO who also doubles as my father. But I’m the most competitive person in the family, so the challenge has been accepted. I show up the best way I can daily and show why this 33-year-old Black female deserves a seat at the table.” Undeterred by the complexities of the family business, Melanie embraces the challenge with her competitive spirit, demonstrating her resilience and determination. As she embraces her role, Melanie looks forward to making her mark and ensuring that the Milhouse legacy continues to thrive for generations to come.