WISDOM FROM THE PAST TO BUILD OUR FUTURE!!!
RECENT WORK
SANKOFA CONSTRUCTION
THE OWNER
Jerry Atsutse Fosu is an American African that has created an economically diverse plan that will help to bring equality of opportunity, upward mobility and economic fairness to the Construction industry. Jerry was born in Newark, NJ however that is not where he remained. With parents of Ghanian heritage Jerry was blessed with the opportunity to live abroad during many of his formative years. In Ghana he was immersed in a rich tapestry of traditions, community values, and close-knit family bonds.
Education in Ghana was rigorous and highly valued, with a focus on academic excellence and discipline. Acquiring a top-notch education in Newark was not as easily accessible as it was in Ghana. Despite the challenges Jerry continued to be voracious in his acquisition of knowledge. From 2002 through 2011 he acquired industry-recognized certifications, job readiness skills, and practical experience through the completion of the Job Corps Program. He also received a Certificate of Advanced training at the International Masonry Institute. Using his experience and expertise, he began offering construction services to the surrounding communities. Jerry also saw the need of the people.
He began providing employment and training opportunities to the residents of the same under-served communities that he provided construction services to. Seeing firsthand the lack of opportunities for minorities and women in the construction industry, he knew something had to be done. In 2021, Jerry created a 5-volume series of educational construction/carpentry books. This collection of textbooks is the foundation upon which the Sankofa Construction LLC. Registered Apprenticeship was created.
THE COMPANY & THE APPRENTICESHIP
In 2012, Sankofa Construction LLC was created and began hiring local residents as laborers. The vision of the company was and continues to be building for the community by the community. The company has been providing exceptional service to Newark residents and its surrounding areas for over 12 yrs.
The construction industry plays a vital role in our economy by providing worldwide job security and the development of economies that drive long term growth. However, this sector is facing significant challenges due to a shortage of skilled labor. Sankofa Construction’s NJ DOL Registered Apprenticeship program bridges the gap between the needs of the construction industry and needs of the communities we serve.
This program is a tried-and-true method to increase lifetime earnings and provide a pathway to a sustainable career. The apprenticeship provides equal access to minorities and women by addressing the specific needs and goals each participant.
According to the United States Department of Labor, “90 percent of apprentices who complete an apprenticeship retain employment, with an annual salary of $80,000 and higher.
In 2012, Sankofa Construction LLC was created and began hiring local residents as laborers. The vision of the company was and continues to be building for the community by the community. The company has been providing exceptional service to Newark residents and its surrounding areas for over 12 yrs.
The construction industry plays a vital role in our economy by providing worldwide job security and the development of economies that drive long term growth. However, this sector is facing significant challenges due to a shortage of skilled labor. Sankofa Construction’s NJ DOL Registered Apprenticeship program bridges the gap between the needs of the construction industry and needs of the communities we serve.
This program is a tried-and-true method to increase lifetime earnings and provide a pathway to a sustainable career.
THE MISSION
At Sankofa Construction LLC, our motto is “Wisdom from the past; to build our future”. By combining years of expertise and knowledge with modern educational practices, Jerry’s created an equitable and effective network that truly serves and uplifts underserved communities. The construction industry faces a variety of challenges as it looks toward a future driven by technological, environmental, economic, and social factors. Jerry’s mantra is F.T.J (Fair, Transparent and Just). By incorporating these standards throughout the company, Sankofa Construction advocates for policies that promote fair hiring practices through transparency. Our employer partners provide mentorships, internships, and networking opportunities to residents of underserved communities. Each resident gains valuable experiences & professional connections through our network which drives economic development and creates pathways to higher paying careers and advanced credentials.
MEET THE TEAM
The Sankofa Management Team is responsible for leading the organization and delivering projects in a safe, efficient, economical and sustainable manner. Each of these leaders is dedicated to our mission to make a positive impact in the lives of program participants and contribute to the development of a skilled and diverse workforce in the construction industry
Jerry A. Fosu
​Owner & Chief Executive Officer
Jerry A. Fosu serves as the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Sankofa Construction LLC, where he has built a reputation as a visionary leader, author, and construction industry innovator. Since founding the company in 2012, Jerry has been the driving force behind its mission, guiding strategic growth, strengthening client and contractor partnerships, and expanding operations both domestically and internationally. With more than 20 years of professional experience, Jerry is recognized for his ability to blend technical expertise with entrepreneurial insight. He has led Sankofa Construction through every phase of development—from navigating the initial legal and financial frameworks, to securing funding, building a skilled workforce, and establishing a strong brand identity. His hands-on leadership has enabled the company to thrive in competitive markets and deliver projects that reflect quality, compliance, and long-term value. In addition to his leadership in business, Jerry is a prolific writer and thought leader in construction. He has authored eight books, six of which have been published, offering deep insights into construction practices, workforce development, and industry innovation. His works underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge and creating opportunities for professionals across the trades. Jerry’s career foundation was built through rigorous training and industry certifications. From 2002 to 2011, he advanced through the Job Corps Program, gaining nationally recognized certifications and essential job readiness skills. He later completed a Certificate of Advanced Training at the International Masonry Institute, further refining his technical expertise and positioning himself as a leader committed to both craft and strategy. Today, Jerry continues to embody the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Sankofa Construction. His international experience, commitment to workforce empowerment, and proven track record of operational growth make him a respected figure in the construction sector and a trusted leader among his peers.
Danielle N. Pinckney
Chief Operating Officer
Danielle Pinckney is the Chief Operating Officer of Sankofa Construction LLC and Sankofa Builders Inc., where she leads all core divisions- finance, construction operations, nonprofit programs, safety & compliance, and apprenticeship training. She drives strategy, operational excellence, and compliance while ensuring every project and initiative aligns with the company's mission of building stronger communities. Passionate about impact beyond construction, Danielle advances programs to address the homelessness, expand workforce development and create sustainable opportunities for underserved populations. She combines her executive leadership with a strong academic foundation, holding a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a certificate in Operations Management, and completed studies in Social Sciences at Harvard University. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), bringing advanced research and strategic insight to her leadership.
To Be named
Director of Project Execution
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Fred Frost
Director of Veteran’s Outreach & Re-Entry Programs
Fred Frost has been a public servant for most of his adult life and his earlier years he started out as a New York City Correction Officer where He worked in one of the most challenging facilities. After From their he transferred over to the NYC Police Department where He became a Police Officer. After many years of dedicated service, he left the police force and got more involved in the political arena, working closely with Al Sharpton, and the National Action Network, to better the lives of the underprivileged in New York City. In 2010 He got directly involved in the fight to address the housing crisis in New York City when be opened up a facility Brooklyn, where he housed 40 individuals, most of which were individuals coming out of prison, and individuals referred by the HRA, who needed immediate housing. He was able to not only provide housing, but he was also able to find employment for all of the residents in his facility. To further enhance his ability to help those most in need of assistance, he became a CASAC counselor in NYC, while also completing a course in New Jersey on housing individuals suffering from substance abuse. In 2022 Mr. Frost was introduced to Mr. Fosu, understanding the vision of Sankofa Builder became members of the organization bring his knowledge with dealing reentry candidates and understanding the resources needed became a great fit.
Jessica Durant
Chief Human Resources Officer
Jessica was employed at Shaw Divorce & Family Law and the Middlesex County Family Court. She held various roles such as Judiciary Clerk, Child Support Investigator, DNA Coordinator, and Domestic Violence Investigator. She holds an Associate degree in Business Administration, and a Paralegal Studies Certificate. She is also a Certified Notary Signing Agent in the state of New Jersey. Bring her knowledge with handlining people she understands many of the needs of the community
To be Named
Chief Financial Officer