Name
Greta Pearson-Barrons
Age
29
Company/Organization
Pearson Construction Company, Inc
What Does Your Company/Organization Do?
Pearson Construction Company, Inc., headquartered in Benton Harbor, Michigan, began providing construction services in 1918 and since that time has evolved into a full service general contracting, design build and construction management firm. Long noted for their leadership in commercial, industrial, and institutional construction, Pearson continues to broaden their professional services to serve the industry needs of today and tomorrow.
Education
I attended Ferris State University and earned my bachelor’s degree in Construction Management.
Accomplishments
I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Ferris State University, where I also served as President of the Omicron II Chapter of Sigma Lambda Chi, the national honor society for the construction industry. Since beginning my career, I have earned both my Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control certification and my Michigan Builder’s License. Last year, I completed the Leadership Accelerator Course hosted by the Lake Michigan College and Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber. I am honored to have served on the Star Building Systems Presidential Advisory Board and currently hold leadership roles as Vice Chair of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber Board and Chair of the NextGen Young Professionals Board.
What else do you hope to accomplish by the age of 40?
Before I turn 40, I hope to become a visible and active role model for women in construction, helping to shift the gender balance in leadership across the industry. I aim to do this by mentoring and supporting young women as they begin their careers, and by sharing my own journey to inspire others to pursue leadership roles. Additionally, I’m committed to continued personal and professional development – not only for my own growth, but to better serve and empower the teams I lead.
Current City
Benton Harbor
Place You Were Born
St. Joseph, MI
What was your first job?
My first job was shredding documents at Pearson Construction; I think I burned through at least two paper shredders in the span of one summer.
What’s the best advice you ever got?
The best advice I’ve ever received was, “The only way through it is to get through it.” While simple, it’s a powerful reminder that during challenging times, perseverance is key. It reinforces the importance of staying focused, taking things one step at a time, and continuing to move forward – even when the path is difficult.
Who inspires you most?
My dad inspires me daily. He leads with dedication, clarity, and compassion – always decisive and firm when needed, yet deeply understanding of the people around him. He genuinely cares for his employees and clients, earning their trust and respect through both his actions and integrity. While he may be direct and no-nonsense in his approach, it’s a style that reflects his authenticity and commitment to doing what’s right. His leadership has shaped not only my career, but also my values.
That one thing about you we’d be most surprised to learn.
I am an accomplished equestrian, having competed nationally and in Canada under the Arabian Horse Association. My experience in the sport has instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and attention to detail. Unsurprisingly, I am a perfectionist and trying to hone my skills in hand embroidery and gardening.
What do you love to do in your downtime?
I love spending time with my son & husband. My husband has a knack for pulling together out-of-the-box adventures for our little family.
What book are you reading now?
I am currently reading the Crescent City series and plan to read the Throne of Glass series next.
Volunteer activity you love the most.
One of the volunteer activities I’ve enjoyed the most is working with children through equine therapy programs. The experience of seeing how horses can help build trust, confidence, and emotional resilience in kids – especially those facing any sort of challenge – has been incredibly rewarding. While I haven’t had as much time recently to be as hands-on as I’d like, this type of meaningful, unconventional therapy work continues to be close to my heart. I deeply value the opportunity to give back in ways that create a lasting, personal impact, and I look forward to reintegrating this type of service into my life as my schedule allows.
What motivates you to give back to your community?
As someone who lives, works, and raises a family in our community, I understand that the community’s success is the foundation for our collective well-being. I feel a deep sense of responsibility to contribute to that success – not just professionally through my work in construction, but personally by supporting initiatives that strengthen the place we all call home.
What Superpower would you most love to have?
I would love to be able to teleport anywhere in the world (good-bye long car rides & flights) or to stop time (there are never enough hours in the day!).
What would you like to leave behind as your legacy once you are gone?
I hope to leave behind a legacy of impact, both in the spaces I’ve helped build and the people I’ve worked with along the way. As a woman in construction, I want to help pave the way for others – especially young women – to see that leadership, strength, and success in this industry are not limited by gender. I want to be remembered as someone who led with integrity, empowered her team, uplifted her community, and contributed to building more than just structures – helping create opportunities, confidence, and connection for the next generation.
What does the honor of being named to the 40 Under 40 most mean to you?
I am so honored to be recognized along with so many other impactful people in the community. It reminds me that hard work, purpose, and passion do not go unnoticed. I’m very thankful for the people who have supported me, the opportunities I have had, and the impact I have been able to make so far. As a young woman in construction, this recognition also carries extra meaning. It reinforces the importance of representation and inspires me to continue mentoring others, pushing boundaries, and giving back to the community that’s shaped my journey.
