Liseth Velez didn't plan on becoming a construction CEO. But her military background, coupled with resilience and determination, has propelled her to the top of the industry.

Growing up in Lowell, Massachusetts, Velez dreamed of joining the military. After enlisting in the National Guard, she was deployed to Djibouti, an experience that profoundly impacted her life. Feeling unsafe and unsupported, she decided to leave the military and pursue a new path.

With a business degree in hand and a strong belief in her abilities, Velez founded LJV Development in 2018. Starting with a single project and no connections, she's grown the company to a $5.8 million enterprise with 21 employees. Her military training has been instrumental in her success, instilling discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Velez is passionate about giving back to her community and creating opportunities for others. LJV focuses on working with underrepresented trade partners and has provided employment opportunities for her family members.

Today, LJV is a thriving construction company handling a variety of projects, from residential to commercial and government contracts. Velez's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome challenges.