Nearly 30 years into her civil engineering career, Janet Turner continues to inspire future generations of women in the AEC industry through leadership, mentorship, and professional advocacy.
When Janet began her career in 1997, women were still finding their footing in many corners of the AEC industry. Nearly three decades later, Janet has not only built a successful career of her own but has also helped create opportunities for other women to do the same.
That commitment is being recognized once again.
Daily Journal of Commerce (DJC) Oregon has selected BKF’s Janet Turner as a 2026 Circle of Excellence honoree through its annual Women of Vision awards program. First recognized as a Woman of Vision in 2014, Janet receives this distinction for her continued contributions to Oregon’s architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.
Building a Career, Opening Doors
For Janet, engineering has always been about more than delivering successful projects.
“One of the most meaningful changes I’ve tried to inspire is bringing more women into the AEC industry and helping them advance,” Janet shared.
Since approximately 1999, she has been involved with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), building relationships with women across construction trades and professional services. She also put that commitment into practice as a business owner. She established Janet Turner Engineering (JTE), a woman-owned engineering business she led for nearly a decade.
“Operating a woman-owned engineering business has also given me a platform to support, elevate, and highlight other women in the industry,” she explained.
Through JTE, Janet contributed to numerous projects throughout the Portland metropolitan area, including La Plaza Esperanza, Leach Botanical Garden, and Valley Catholic High School’s Science Building (pictured above).
JTE also provided civil engineering services for multifamily developments such as REACH Affordable Housing and Stratus Village, supporting public and private development throughout the region.
Partnerships Built on Collaboration
Before Janet joined BKF, she was already working alongside the firm’s engineers. For approximately five years, JTE and BKF collaborated on development projects throughout the Portland region. One example was the Elmonica apartment development in Beaverton, where Janet managed public infrastructure and permitting while BKF provided private development design.
“My approach to leadership is centered on collaboration, communication, and active participation,” Janet explained.
For Janet, that means ensuring civil engineering has a voice in multidisciplinary conversations and that technical perspectives are represented throughout the design process.
Sharing What She’s Learned
Now working at BKF’s Portland office, Janet supports emerging engineers through quality assurance reviews, technical guidance, and informal mentorship.
“I serve as a sounding board when team members have questions and openly share lessons from nearly 30 years in the industry,” she said. Her guidance helps younger professionals strengthen their technical skills and professional judgment.
Janet’s 2026 Circle of Excellence Award recognizes her continued influence since her initial Women of Vision honor in 2014. From operating a woman-owned engineering business to mentoring colleagues and advocating for women in the AEC industry, her career demonstrates a lasting commitment to technical leadership and creating opportunities for future generations.
“I’ve always believed that strong leadership means actively contributing, sharing your perspective, and making sure every voice has an opportunity to be heard,” she said.
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