The Culture I Built and Protect at Evolution
- Jennifer DeVito

- Oct 10
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago

Culture isn’t just something that happens. It’s something you build, protect, and it evolves with intention.
At Evolution, I do things differently. I believe in purpose-driven work, flexible schedules, and trust-based leadership. When you create space for people to thrive, they don’t just work better, they live better.
As a woman, a founder, and a working mother, I’ve learned that the best results come from building a culture that supports real life. Here’s how we do it, why it works, and what you can take from it. Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or trying to build a career that actually fits your life.
Why I Refused to Build a “Traditional” Company
If you know anything about me and Evolution you know that I am disrupting the status quo. That sentiment doesn’t just apply to construction and real estate, it expands to how I run my companies. I know from personal experience, especially as a mom, that life doesn’t fit neatly into 9-to-5 office hours.
I know just as much as any other working mother that flexibility makes all of the difference.
So I created Evolution differently. Our culture runs on accountability, autonomy, and flexibility. We focus on outcomes, not 9-to-5 hours. When people feel trusted, they show up with purpose.
What a Flexible Workday Really Looks Like
Flexibility isn’t chaos. It's a structure that respects real life.
For my team, that might mean starting the day after school drop-off, flexing hours to begin the day earlier or end later, or working remotely on some days. We use clear communication, shared systems, and check-ins so everyone stays connected and accountable.
How Motherhood Shaped My Leadership
Motherhood taught me the power of efficiency, empathy, and grace.

As a single mom building a business, I learned to make every hour count. I also learned that the same flexibility I needed to succeed is what my team needed too.
When your workplace allows room for life like school calls, bus drop off or doctor appointments, you build loyalty that no paycheck can buy. You create a space where people want to stay and grow.
As a leader, I believe that’s one of the greatest investments you can make.
The Benefits of Leading with Flexibility
The results speak for themselves.
Our projects run smoother. Communication is stronger. The energy in our team is genuine because everyone feels trusted and supported. It’s the outcome of a culture I cultivated with intention.
This model has allowed Evolution to grow sustainably, attract amazing talent, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.
When people are happy and respected, the work shows it.
What You Can Take From This
Whether you lead a team, own a business, or work within one, here’s what I’ve learned:
Trust your people first: Accountability grows where trust exists.
Redefine productivity: It’s not about being busy, it’s about being effective.
Protect your culture: The moment you stop guarding it, it starts to shift.
Lead with empathy: People will always remember how you made them feel.
Culture doesn’t have to mirror tradition. It can evolve and when it does, everyone wins.
Freebie: The Evolution Workday Blueprint
Want to design a flexible, results-driven workday that actually fits your life?
Sign up for our newsletter below and download The Evolution Workday Blueprint.
It includes journal prompts, checklists and a sample schedule to help you redefine your workday and productivity.
See you in the next post!
–
Jennifer DeVito
Founder, Evolution General Contracting + Evolution Realty of Long Island








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