2018 Women in Real Estate and Construction Services: Paola Bergonzi, Bohler Engineering

Name: Paola Bergonzi

Title: Permitting Manager

Company Name: Bohler Engineering

Years in your current field: 24

What professional organizations or associations are you a member of? Advancement for Commerce Industry and Technology, Hauppauge Industrial Association, Long Island Builders Institute, Townwide Fund of Huntington, Inc., PWC

What was your most notable project 2017? 

I am currently working on The Boulevard Project located on Hylan Blvd. in Staten Island. My team is working to transform an existing retail complex into an approximately 460,000 s/f open air shopping center, which will include two new multi-levels retail buildings with a “Main Street” feature.  The project, from a permitting perspective, is challenging due to the various NYC agency approvals involved ranging from the Office of Environmental Remediation and the New York City Planning Commission to New York City Department of Environmental Protection and the New York City Fire Department, to name a few.    

What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2017? 

 I look at each project I am involved in and help drive through the entitlement process as an accomplishment.  I am proud of all the projects I have been a part of last year.

If you have had a mentor in your career, who was it and what did they teach you? 

I’ve had the privilege of working with Tom Tabone, Associate at Bohler Engineering, for the past five years.  He has been a constant source of support, a sounding board, and someone who makes me believe in myself and my abilities.  My growth over the past five years is due in large part to his support and guidance.

What trends are you seeing so far this year in your field?   

The NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) has entered the digital age.  DOB NOW: Inspections, an online scheduling initiative, will revamp the City’s buildings and permitting approvals process and streamline project reviews.  It replaces the paper-based filing system for nearly three decade allowing customers to submit applications, make payments, schedule appointments, check the status of an application or inspection, pull permits, and make renewals.  It’s an exciting time for the permitting industry.  

When I am not working I am…

Spending time with my family, including my sons Nicholas and Dante, and practicing yoga.