Melissa Johnson, AZED Pro
Director of Business Development & Marketing
Danson Construction, LLC
Member since 2020
Melissa Johnson is the Director of Business Development & Marketing at Danson Construction, a general contractor specializing in public-sector projects throughout Arizona. With more than 15 years of experience in land use, development, and strategic partnerships, she leads the firm’s statewide business development and marketing efforts, focusing on projects that strengthen communities and deliver long-term value to clients. At Danson Construction, Melissa works closely with city, county, and district partners on projects including fire stations, libraries, schools, municipal facilities, and various private-sector projects. Her approach emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and a shared commitment to quality, values that align with Danson’s mission of building clients for life. She plays a key role in connecting municipal priorities with construction expertise, ensuring projects are both functional and future-focused. Beyond her professional role, Melissa serves as Treasurer for the Superstition Area Land Trust, where she supports land conservation and public education initiatives that preserve Arizona’s open spaces. She is also active in regional economic and community organizations, often lending her expertise to collaborative efforts that bridge public and private interests.
Melissa is known for her creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment to partnership. Whether coordinating major conferences, pursuing complex public projects, or mentoring emerging leaders, she brings people together to create lasting impact. Her work reflects a genuine belief that collaboration, paired with a deep respect for community, builds stronger places for people to live, work, and thrive.
Please describe your involvement in AAED.
My involvement with AAED has been active, hands-on, and deeply rooted in service to the organization and its mission. I currently serve on the AAED Board and am an active contributor to the Bylaws and Policies & Procedures Subcommittee, where I help strengthen governance, clarity, and long-term organizational effectiveness. In addition, I chaired AAED’s Fall Forum in both 2023 and 2024, leading planning efforts, coordinating with speakers and sponsors, and ensuring the event delivered meaningful value to members and partners across the state.
Beyond formal leadership roles, I am a consistent and engaged participant in AAED programming, including forums, conferences, mixers, and professional development events. I view these gatherings not only as learning opportunities but as critical spaces for relationship-building, collaboration, and advancing economic development initiatives statewide. I regularly attend events to connect members, share insights from the AEC and development communities, and foster productive dialogue between the public and private sectors.
I also support AAED through sponsorship engagement and advocacy, leveraging my professional network to elevate participation and awareness of AAED’s programs. My involvement reflects a long-term commitment to the organization. I aim to contribute strategically, lead where needed, and serve as a reliable resource to fellow members. AAED has been an important platform for professional growth, leadership development, and meaningful community impact, and I remain highly invested in its continued success.
Which committees have you served on?
Fall Forum (prior Chair, currently Board Liaison) and Member Engagement Committees.
Why do you want to serve as a member of the AAED Board of Directors?
I want to serve on the AAED Board of Directors because I deeply believe in the organization’s mission and in AAED’s role in shaping Arizona’s economic future. AAED sits at the intersection of policy, community, and industry, and I am motivated by the opportunity to help strengthen that connection in a way that is both strategic and member-focused.
Through my professional work in land use, development, and construction, I engage daily with municipalities, educators, private developers, and economic development professionals. Serving on the Board allows me to bring that practical, on-the-ground perspective to AAED’s programming, advocacy efforts, and long-term planning. I am particularly passionate about helping AAED continue to evolve in ways that deliver clear value to members, support workforce and community development, and foster collaboration across sectors and regions.
I am also drawn to Board service as a way to give back to an organization that has played a meaningful role in my own leadership growth. AAED has provided a platform to learn, connect, and lead, and I see Board service as a responsibility to steward that impact forward. I am committed to being an engaged, accountable, and collaborative Board member who contributes ideas, follows through on execution, and supports the organization’s strategic goals. Ultimately, I want to help ensure AAED remains a strong, relevant, and forward-looking organization for current and future members.