Project Manager Abby Hultman Joins JLA Architects
MADISON — JLA Architects is pleased to announce the addition of Abby Hultman (PMP) as a project manager. Although based at our Madison office, Hultman’s role will span all JLA offices specializing in client & team management, construction documentation, and process development.
Bringing ten years of design experience, Hultman has worked on projects across the nation, collaborating closely with owners, municipalities, and large project teams. Her portfolio has included remodels, ground-up construction, and adaptive re-use projects including over 130+ projects for Wisconsin-based Culver’s restaurants.
In her role at JLA, she will be committed to client satisfaction, acting as the intermediary for clients and internal JLA project teams. She has a passion for building relationships with clients, and listening to their needs and goals to bring their project to fruition. As a project manager, she leads her teams by uncovering & leveraging each team member’s individual strengths to keep a project on track and finish it successfully.
When asked why she chose JLA, Hultman explained, “I always wanted to work for a locally based firm. JLA blends the best of all worlds for me—from project management to architecture and interior design. Since I live in Madison, it was also important that I work somewhere where I can build and improve my community, and I’ve seen how JLA makes an impact here.”
Vice President/Madison Office Director Leah Teske is pleased to welcome Hultman to the JLA team, “Abby’s unique experience and thoughtful, client-focused approach makes her a great addition to our incredible team of Project Managers here at JLA. I am excited to see her continued professional growth and look forward to working with her.”
Hultman is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). She earned her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Learn more about Abby
What drew you to project management?
“With my background in interior design, I’ve always loved being part of the design industry. Being a project manager in this world allows me to tackle new and different challenges related to design but I get to dial into the process. I’m very solution focused. My experience in interior design is a strength because I can truly act as the conduit between a client and design teams, interpreting the client’s needs and desires into actionable items for the production team.”
What’s your favorite (or most unique) project you’ve worked on and why?
“From start to finish, I was part of a new concept for Culver’s that was built right next to Wrigley Field (Wrigleyville, Ill.). For this project, I worked closely with Culver’s corporate operations team because it was a unique and innovative model. For example, there’s no drive-thru, but there is a walk-up window; this was very uncommon for Culver’s. To do this, our team took an entirely different approach to the brand standards, and it involved a lot of close client interactions to bring the project to reality. This particular franchise owner has several downtown Chicago restaurants. It was rewarding to work with a client who cares about creating jobs for the community and providing easy access to affordable food. His tenacity to push forward challenging projects with the City of Chicago and other decision makers was admirable.”
What do you do for fun? Do you have any hobbies or special interests?
“I’m a designer at heart so I love DIY projects. My husband and I are in the process of remodeling our home and I also enjoy refinishing furniture. I’m a self-proclaimed foodie and love to try new types of cuisine. I love to explore in general, too—whether it’s the month-long RV trip we took last summer where we trekked across the east coast into Canada or by simply exploring what Madison has to offer.”
Are you involved in the community? If so, what causes/organizations mean the most to you?
“Most recently, I’ve really enjoyed supporting Meals on Wheels. I delivered meals during Covid in 2020 and it was heartbreaking because I met so many individuals who didn’t feel safe or were physically unable to leave their home. It was so rewarding to deliver them necessities they truly needed. It’s such a simple way for someone to make an impact.
In the past I’ve also enjoyed volunteering for other organizations in south-central Wisconsin including Girls, Inc., Hope House of Baraboo, and Second Harvest Foodbank in Madison.”
