2016 Women in Real Estate: AnnMarie Puzio

AnnMarie Puzio, Langan

Name: AnnMarie Puzio

Title: Senior Project Manager

Email: [email protected]

Years in real estate: 10

Company Name: Langan

Year Founded: 1970    

URL: www.langan.com

Telephone: 212.479.5400

Twitter @LanganEngEnv

How did you get your start in real estate?

I graduated with a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical) from University of California at Berkeley in 2005 and began my engineering career at Langan shortly after.

What recent project or transaction are you most proud of?

The project that I am most proud of is the Gulf Intra-Coastal Waterway West Closure Complex in Plaquemines and Jefferson Parishes, La. I was a pivotal member of the geotechnical design team for the $1 billion post-Hurricane Katrina project, which is a primary flood protection component of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ mission to protect New Orleans. I helped spearhead a full-depth pilot test and finite element computer modeling program to evaluate the potential for base heave of the deep excavations, dewatering techniques, and overall constructability. I presented my project team’s recommendations to the Army Corps, which resulted in their approval of a new method for soil depressurization.

What have been some of the benefits of being a mentor or having a mentor?

A particular focus of mine is mentoring and training young engineers at Langan, specifically female engineers. As one of the company’s youngest female engineer leaders, I am in a unique position to directly relate to the next generation of Langan leaders through discussing my experiences and acting as a role model.

A major benefit of being a mentor is the opportunity to participate in Langan’s internal programs, such as the Mentoring Program and Women@Langan. The mentoring program pairs me with a younger female engineer for a year at a time, which lets me guide and develop younger talent. As a member of Women@Langan, I help provide a forum for women to develop a community with other industry members through events, networking and mentoring.

Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career and why?

My direct supervisor, Ron Boyer, has been the strongest influence on my career. I’ve worked for him for 13 years and doubt I would have stayed in the engineering field if I didn’t have such a great mentor. Not only have I learned a great deal from him but he has also provided constant support and encouragement throughout my career.