Jessica Baturin Builds the Future with Determination

By Migdalis Pérez

In the world of construction, where precision and resilience are key, Jessica Baturin has carved out her path with determination and perseverance. As the President and CEO of Chicago-based Adelante Construction Group, she has turned her legal expertise into a strategic advantage.

Born and raised in the south side of “The Windy City” and daughter of two police officers, Jessica values family and staying connected to her Hispanic roots. From her grandmother, who was born in Puerto Rico, she inherited strength and independence—qualities she proudly carries with her today, as she tells Negocios Now (NN).

From Law to Construction

From the start of her career, Jessica was involved in the construction industry, though in a different way.

“I worked as a construction attorney for different specialty contractors and utility companies and had become well-versed in construction legal issues. I decided that starting my own construction company would be the perfect opportunity to blend my personal and professional backgrounds and do for myself the work I was doing for others,“ she explains.

NN: Why did you choose this industry?

JB: I have a background in the construction industry going back to my high school years. I worked as an intern in my uncle’s construction business and got hands-on experience and learned business operations. Later, as a new law school graduate, I began working on construction contracts for telecommunications projects, so I found myself returning to the industry with new knowledge and skills.

Challenges and Achievements Along the Way

Like many businesses, financial challenges were among the biggest hurdles for Jessica.

“Cash flow issues were one of the biggest challenges because of the industry’s payment structure and high upfront costs,“ she explains. “Unlike other businesses that may have steady revenue streams, construction projects often require significant expenses upfront before payments are received.”

Additionally, she highlights that “labor, materials, and equipment all need to be paid for to get a project up and running, but clients typically pay in installments or after project milestones.”

NN: What have been your biggest achievements?

JB: The Green Era Digester Project was very exciting for us. Adelante provided electrical construction services on this innovative project, which is a redevelopment effort in the underserved Auburn-Gresham area on the south side of Chicago. We also worked on Bally’s temporary casino in downtown Chicago, installing all the security cameras for this location. Being part of it meant contributing to something that will be remembered for years to come. Lastly, winning the Inner City 100 Award was a significant achievement for us because it recognizes growth, resilience, and impact in urban communities.

Adelante Looks to the Future

For Jessica, growing her company remains a priority.

“Our current business goals focus on growth and impact. We aim to expand our operations by taking on larger, more complex construction projects while maintaining the high quality and reliability that our clients expect. We’re also committed to increasing our impact on the community,” she says. In fact, she emphasizes that her mission is “to create better, local job opportunities, and continue to hire from within the communities in which we serve.”

NN: What makes you most proud as a businesswoman in this industry?

JB: As a lifelong Chicagoan, I am most proud of improving the infrastructure of the communities of the city of Chicago. Knowing that our work has a lasting effect on the city’s neighborhoods is truly fulfilling.

NN: What advice would you give to those looking to start their own business?

JB: Continue education in the field. The construction industry —and business in general— is constantly evolving, so continued education is key to staying competitive. Also, build strong relationships—with clients, employees, and other business owners.

Proudly, Jessica was the first in her family to attend college and continue to law school, which gave her “a strong foundation in analytical thinking, contract negotiation, and problem-solving.” Without a doubt, she concludes, “These tools have been essential in my entrepreneurial journey.”

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