Speakers

Shaylyn Cullen is the Founder and President of Cullen Construction Management and an active leader within the construction and engineering community. She is a founding member of the Professional Women in Construction - Chicago Chapter and serves on the Marquette University Civil Engineering Advisory Board. Deeply committed to mentorship and industry leadership, Shay has been recognized with several regional awards for her impact, leadership, and advocacy.

After more than a decade working for a general contractor, Shay founded Cullen CM to fill the gaps during the preconstruction stage and bring a collaborative approach to construction management. Under Shay’s leadership, the firm has grown into a trusted Owner’s Representative partner known for its exceptional team and deep industry expertise. In 2026, Cullen CM was proud to be named a Best Workplaces Winner for the second consecutive year, an achievement that reflects its commitment to its people, culture, and long-term growth. The firm was also recognized as an Inc. Fastest Growing Company. Shay brings years of expertise and perspective to conversations around Emerging Real Estate Trends to Watch in the Midwest, sharing insights on the evolving industry landscape. Outside of the office, Shay enjoys reading, yoga, and spending time with her husband, three sons, and dog.