2020 Women in RE: Jessica Corriere, AKF Group

Name: Jessica Corriere, PE

Title: Commissioning Team Leader

Company Name: AKF Group

List up to three associations or organizations that you are currently a member of:

• PWC (AKF is member/active participant via corporate membership)
• ASHRAE (AKF is member/active participant via corporate membership)
• BCx (AKF is member/active participant via corporate membership)

What is one characteristic that you believe every woman in business should possess?
The trait I believe every woman in business should possess is resilience. It’s a game-changer!

What would you tell your daughter if she was interested in following in your footsteps?
I would tell my daughter to bring her most confident and passionate self. Active listening facilitates harmonious and effective communication in the work place.

What trend(s) will dominate your industry in the next year?
With remote workspaces continuing to be in demand, offices are being designed for decreased density. Pre-fab construction concepts will likely dominate as an office solution. As the built infrastructure evolves to accommodate new built environment needs, the need for HVAC performance compliance will also increase. Drone surveys and inspections are on the up and up in addition to other digital and virtual tools. There are also implications to energy and local NYC law compliance that requires smart solutions for the complex problems we are facing.

What recent project or accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my commissioning accomplishments at Brooklyn Navy Yard. We’ve continued to work through the pandemic and help ensure the building is ready for occupants.

What conferences, books, blogs, podcasts, or influencers would you recommend to women?
Conferences: INWES is a global network of organization of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), reaching over 60 countries worldwide; Books/Authors: Alison Armstrong, Shaunti Feldhahn, Louann Brizendine; Blogs: Commercial Observer; Influencers: James Ierardi, AKF partner & presenter of AKF’s Coffee with Code nano series; Joseph Allen, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

How are you networking during the pandemic?
I am continuing to participate in industry events via online platforms, particularly in the SciTech sector and through the Meetup Group New York and New Jersey PowerTeams. Additionally, ongoing calls to touch base with clients to provide updates, education resources, and share networking ideas; hosting happy hours with a focus; organizing out-of-office events that allow for social distancing.