DBT40 Honoree: DJ Herr

DJ Herr | DBT PHOTO BY LUIGI CIUFFETELLI

Title: Project Manager

Workplace: Wohlsen Construction

Age: 37

In the building industry, being on time and on budget is key not just to success, but to the survival of a business. At Wohlsen Construction, it’s Project Manager DJ Herr’s job to oversee a project’s finances, contracts and schedules, ensuring his team delivers as promised.

Herr first joined Wilmington-based Wohlsen Construction in July 2018 as a field coordinator, overseeing the mechanical, electrical and plumbing aspects of a job. Prior to joining Wohlsen, he worked as a project manager for JF Sobieski Mechanical Contractors and an electrician for Premier Choice Electric in Downingtown, Pa.

Some of the key projects the Pennsylvania State University graduate has been involved in include the renovation of the historic, 14-story tower at 901 Market Street that is now filled with modern apartments to support revitalization efforts in downtown Wilmington and the $55 million construction of Delaware State University’s nearly 190,000-square-foot Tubman Laws Hall, as well as dozens of apartments and other commercial spaces across Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland.

Through his work, the tradesman-turned-leader has strengthened relationships within the First State building and trades industries, leading to projects like the one at 901 Market Street to earn recognition as Wohlsen’s 2022 Project of the Year. He also has participated in the ABC Delaware’s Young Professionals program, including as chairperson, and was named ABC Delaware Young Professional of the Year in 2021. Through that role, he leads networking events and job site tours for young professionals to learn the trade. He now also leads its membership and growth committee.

In his free time, Herr coaches ice hockey and is an active triathlete who created the annual IRON Hockey Game, a charitable event that has raised over $12,000 and is set to return in August 2024.