2024 Ones to Watch Industry Leaders: James Byrne, Wesbuilt Construction Managers

“James has played a critical role in growing our firm into a $150 million construction organization. His leadership skills, technical acumen and incorporating the latest digital technologies, such as BIM tools and 3D modeling, into the estimating process have allowed Wesbuilt to win some of the most coveted projects in New York City.” - Mark Galway, Principal at Wesbuilt Construction Managers.

In the last 12 months what accomplishment are you most proud of? Wesbuilt’s latest project in the industrial market segment is the redevelopment of the 260,000 s/f 32-02 Queens Blvd. property in Queens. Our estimating department continuously advised the client on pricing and technical options to guide the decision-making process to most economical and functional solutions. This has allowed the property owner to proceed with a complex, $35 million project that includes demolition of a section of the existing building, façade upgrades and additions of a new exterior elevator, loading dock and electrical service. 

Best advice for new leaders: Put in the work, learn continuously and mentor your team.

In the last 12 months what was one of the biggest challenges you faced as a leader and how did you overcome it? Wesbuilt is currently in the pre-construction phase for a technically challenging, $40 million, 65,000 s/f Zeta Charter School at 4263 3^rd Ave. in the Bronx. Our estimating team has to meet the client’s defined budget, while delivering a functional, architecturally attractive building. Collaborating with designers, ownership and Wesbuilt’s project management team, we are currently completing a value engineering analysis to allow the project to proceed as planned. Despite site challenges, technical complexities and a tight schedule, I am confident we will meet the client’s budget expectations and provide the students with an excellent school facility.