I’m Mya Tran-Harter, and I’m honored to be your 2025 President for NVBIA’s Women in the Building Industry. Growing up surrounded by strong, inspiring women who mentored me, the value of uplifting others has always been ingrained in my identity. I witnessed my mother and older sister work tirelessly to launch careers, support families, lead with kindness and gratitude (long before it became a trend), and still make time for their own loved ones. Carrying on their legacy is important...as I’ve journeyed through my own life, I’ve drawn inspiration from those around me and feel a deep responsibility to give back. 

 

I’m excited to engage with all of you, enhance our collaboration, and drive our collective pursuit of excellence. Your dedication and passion make this community exceptional, and I am honored to be part of it. We will build a dynamic future, unlocking opportunities for growth, leadership,

Mya Tran-Harter, President

 

Senior Vice President, Construction Lending & Senior Loan Officer, Intercoastal Mortgage, LLC

 

29 Years in the industry

Notable Personal Facts

Despite having a personality that can fill a room, I’m actually an introvert. I thrive on silence and alone time to recharge - I'm basically a social butterfly who occasionally needs to turn into a hermit. Fun fact: I’ve been a licensed cosmetologist and instructor for most of my adult life (shoutout to my beauty empire-owning sister), so if you need a touch-up before closing on your mortgage, I’ve got you covered - just don’t expect me to host a party afterward!

What drives your passion for the Women in the Building Industry Group? 

My passion for the building industry is rooted in the belief that diversity and inclusion are essential for progress. Women bring unique skills and perspectives that drive innovation, but true inclusivity can’t happen without involving men in the conversation. Excluding them only perpetuates outdated norms. As an Asian female in the industry for over 25 years, I’ve faced challenges, but they’ve only strengthened my commitment to breaking barriers and building a future where everyone, regardless of gender or background, can thrive. I care deeply about this industry and believe that by lifting each other up, we can create a stronger, more innovative environment for all.

Jordan Rice, Chair - Education & Events

 

Vice President, J.D.A. Custom Homes

 

13 Years in the industry

Notable Personal Facts

I have two handsome fur babies, Leon and Hayek. They wear bowties and go to work with me every day. I grew up in Vienna, VA, started my career on Wall St in NYC and I’m the J in J.D.A. 

 

What drives your passion for the Women in the Building Industry Group? 

My passion for supporting women in the building industry stems from my deep desire to uplift those around me and inspire others to become the best version of themselves. Throughout my career, I have navigated industries traditionally dominated by men, beginning on Wall Street, where I had to work tirelessly to stand out as a woman. That experience ignited a fire within me early on, driving my determination to break barriers.

 

When I transitioned into the construction and real estate industry 13 years ago, I immediately recognized familiar challenges. Since then, I have continuously pushed boundaries to be acknowledged for my expertise and achievements - rather than my gender. Success in this field should never be about whether one is male or female; it’s about delivering exceptional work and getting the job done -nailing it, if you will. Pun intended ;) 

Jana Sparling Gilbert, Chair - Community Service

 

GROUPE, Director of Marketing

 

32 Years in the industry

Notable Personal Facts

My greatest accomplishments are my daughter, Natalie and son, Nolan who are both thriving out in the beautiful state of Montana, my family is a constant source of inspiration.

 

My furry baby is Cooley, a lovable 13-year old golden retriever who brings so much joy to everyone she meets.

 

I grew up in Fairfax County, Virginia and have deep roots in the Northern Virginia area.

 

Fun fact:  Back in my Hill days, my co-ed Congressional Football Team was in the Congressional Record for winning the “Super Bowl” League Championship.

 

What drives your passion for the Women in the Building Industry Group? 

My passion for the NVBIA, Women in the Building Industry (WBI) stems from a belief in fostering inclusivity and empowering women to thrive in the building industry.  I am inspired by the resilience, creativity, and leadership of women who challenge the status quo and shape the future of the industry.  Together we are building a stronger, more inclusive community.

Jenn Keesling, Chair -

PR & Communications

 

Van Metre Homes, HQ Operations Manager

 

22 Years in the industry

Notable Personal Facts

Both my husband and our 24-year-old son are also part of the industry, and each of us works for a different company.

 

Our house is run by our two furbabies, Luna the lab and Mr. Bubz the Great Dane. She's the pack leader and he is her Giant minion. She is my shadow and he can often be spotted curled up with his blanky. 

 

What drives your passion for the Women in the Building Industry Group?  

There’s something truly special about this group of women. Together, we represent the many unique puzzle pieces that come together to create the bigger picture of our industry. I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact that such partnerships and relationships can have - they’re both powerful and enduring. I’m excited to see this group grow and uncover the remarkable contributions we can achieve through collaboration.

Remy Munyana,

Vice Chair - Community Service

 

2 Years in the industry  

Notable Personal Facts

Fluent in multiple languages. I learned Mandarin while a civil engineering student in China. I am a special mom of 3 boys. Been to 5 continents.

 

What drives your passion for the Women in the Building Industry Group?  

When I was a young girl, I would see construction sites with men only. I ultimately met a woman who ran a real estate development company.

 

She inspired me to get into the construction industry. Now as a Civil Engineer, I feel called to open the door for other women who also aspire to join this industry.

Georgeanne Harter,

Vice Chair - PR & Communications

 

Van Metre Homes, Warranty Manager

 

4 Years in the industry  

Notable Personal Facts

A fun fact about me is where my name comes from - my maternal grandparents, George and Ann 😊 I used to grow up disliking it because it was always so long to learn to write in school but learned to love it as I have gotten older.

 

What drives your passion for the Women in the Building Industry Group?  

My passion for the Women in the Building Industry Group is driven by a deep appreciation for the resilience, innovation, and leadership that women bring to the field. Having been inspired by strong female role models in my own life, I understand the challenges and triumphs that come with navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry.

 

I am committed to fostering a supportive community where women can connect, mentor, and uplift one another.

 

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