2025 Women in CRE: Lydia Chen, Rosenbaum Design Group Architecture

What skill or quality do you believe is essential for success in your field today?

In my role as a filing representative, communication is important in my field. We are like a bridge between design professionals, developers, contractors, and municipal agencies. Translating complex requirements into clear, actionable steps. Providing project updates and ensuring all stakeholders stay informed throughout the approval process. This collaborative approach helps prevent delays and keeps projects moving forward efficiently.

If you could change one thing about the CRE industry, what would it be and why?

I would simplify and have complete digitization of the permitting systems with real-time status tracking. Currently, New York City’s five boroughs use a system called DOBnow. Municipalities outside of the city use different submission portals, and some still require paper filings. A fully digital system would speed up approvals and provide greater transparency for clients throughout the entire process.