Julia Ellis Named Business First 40 Under 40

byArianna Sanchez inPeople posted14 April, 2026
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Julia Ellis Named Business First 40 Under 40
Julia Ellis Named Business First 40 Under 40
Julia Ellis Named Business First 40 Under 40
Julia Ellis Named Business First 40 Under 40
Julia Ellis Named Business First 40 Under 40
We are proud to congratulate Julia Ellis on being named an Albuquerque Business First 40 Under 40 honoree.

 

As HB’s Vice President of Talent and Culture, Julia is redefining what leadership looks like in construction. Today, 40% of HB’s workforce is female, a direct reflection of her leadership and advocacy. In an industry where women are often shut out, Julia is opening doors.

 

Julia has been instrumental in HB Construction being named Albuquerque Business First Best Place to Work winner in 2024 and runner-up in 2025. In her current role alone, Julia has:
  • Increased HB’s workforce by 40% through strategic recruiting and workforce development
  • Built new employee onboarding into a meaningful, role-specific experience
  • Created HB’s internship pipeline and partnership with the UNM School of Engineering
  • Created the HB Employee and Family Member Scholarship programs
  • Grown the HB Employee Grant and Sabbatical programs to invest in employees at key life moments
Her impact is measurable, but it is also cultural. She has helped shape a company where people want to stay.

 

Community Leadership
Julia’s leadership extends well beyond HB.
  • Coordinates in-kind construction support for Make-a-Wish, Ronald McDonald House, NM Ramp, and Keep Albuquerque Beautiful
  • Leads HB’s United Way campaign and engagement with the Albuquerque Community Foundation
  • Serves on the committee for ALS New Mexico’s gala and Walk and Wheel, its two largest annual fundraisers
Lobo WBB Tour at UNMH Children’s Psychiatric Center
Words From Her Team
The most telling measure of Julia’s leadership comes from the people who work with her every day.
  • “She never settles for good enough. Her attention to detail elevates every initiative and makes each opportunity memorable.”
  • “HB Construction will continue to grow because of Julia. The development she drives inside this organization is vital to our success.”
  • “She understands that beyond being employees, we have families and personal lives. When my sister was going through chemotherapy, she immediately said, ‘Absolutely, prayers for her.’ That meant everything.”
  • “The amount of thought and care she puts into onboarding and employee support is unmatched.”
  • “Her leadership is rooted in empathy, courage, and clarity. She is a true advocate for employees.”