Kraus builds relationships, success for Mortenson

Listen to this article

Bridget Kraus is usually putting her colleagues in the spotlight rather than standing in it herself.

As senior marketing manager at Mortenson’s Milwaukee operating group, she oversees project marketing, public relations and outreach efforts.

Kraus joined Mortenson in 2005. In her nearly 15 years at the company, her job has changed greatly.

“Not a single day has been like the one before it,” Kraus said. “The wide variety of things I get to work on is both challenging and exciting.”

Kraus has worked on projects for the Milwaukee Bucks, Northwestern Mutual, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin and more. She said one of the projects she remembers most fondly is the Fiserv Forum.

“Being involved with the Bucks team and helping manage media, tours and community outreach efforts was challenging and fun,” said Kraus. “It’s been so transformational for Milwaukee and Wisconsin.”

Her colleagues say her ability to build relationships with clients results in success for everyone involved.

“Bridget is an integral part of Mortenson’s Wisconsin team,” said Jeff Gruhn, director of project development at Mortenson. “(She’s) valued by many of our partners and customers and a leader in spearheading community outreach efforts.”

Kraus leads several career-outreach programs at Mortenson, including TechTerns. This partnership with Milwaukee’s Bradley Tech High School gives students real-world experience on projects at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin and Fiserv Forum. Kraus is working with Froedtert to expand the program, exposing more students to careers in construction and health care.

“It’s exciting to watch students as they participate and how the simplest thing can spark curiosity and interest in a certain career path,” Kraus said.

Kraus serves as a mentor for women within Mortenson and the marketing industry. She’s involved with the Women Advancing Mortenson group to foster inclusion and professional development. This year, she’ll also serve as president-elect of the Society for Marketing Professional Services-Wisconsin. Even with her many professional obligations, Kraus always makes time for her two children.

“As a single working mom I’ve found that striking a balance between work and being there for my kids takes some effort and juggling,” Kraus said. “While it’s sometimes hard, I hope my kids are learning what a strong work ethic looks like and how you can shift priorities.”