2024 Women in Construction: Donna Scibetta, Champion Elevator

“Champion Elevator nominates Donna Scibetta for the 2024 Women in Construction Spotlight due to her 30 years of unparalleled expertise, demonstrating unmatched dedication, commitment, and loyalty. Recognized as the industry’s finest, her contributions have been instrumental in elevating the standard for many real estate owners.” - Donald Gelestino, President at Champion Elevator.

What recent project, accomplishment or award are you most proud of? 63 Wall Street. Undertaking the task of modernizing the elevators of such an illustrious address was not merely a project but a privilege. Elevators, being the veins of these towering structures, play a vital role in maintaining the functionality, efficiency, and appeal of the building.

At Champion Elevator, we understand the crucial balance between preserving the historical integrity of a building while providing state-of-the-art elevator services that enhance the user experience. Elevator modernization is more than a simple upgrade; it’s an essential aspect of maintaining the building’s value and optimizing its efficiency.

For this project, our team has worked tirelessly to integrate cutting-edge elevator technology with seamless operation, ensuring the elevators not only complement the building’s historic aura but also meet today’s high standards of safety, speed, and comfort.

The success of this project stands as a testament to Champion Elevator’s expertise and commitment to providing the best in elevator technology. We would like to extend our sincerest thanks to our dedicated team, who brought their relentless effort and expertise to this monumental task.

For those unaware, 63 Wall Street carries an illustrious history that echoes through the marble-floored halls of its iconic structure. Constructed in 1928-1929, the building was originally home to Brown Brothers & Co., later known as Brown Brothers Harriman, the oldest and largest private bank in the United States. Its significance in the financial world and association with Wall Street’s heritage is undisputable.

The architectural design is a beautiful blend of Classic Revival and Art Deco styles, a testament to the historic era’s grandeur. Today, it serves as a luxury rental residence, adding a contemporary touch to its rich historical significance while preserving its timeless allure.

What do you like best about being a woman in the AEC (Annual Women in Construction) industry? The sense of empowerment and pride that comes from being a woman in a male dominated field.

What is one of the most exciting developments or innovations impacting the AEC industry right now? Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW) . NEW prepares women for nontraditional careers in the building and construction trades, public utilities, transportation, green jobs and building maintenance and operation industries – jobs that provide structured career pathways to the middle class and economic independence. Through its innovative training programs, NEW graduates successfully compete for skilled trades careers that enable women to achieve economic self-sufficiency. 

What is your favorite building in New York? My favorite building in NYC is One World Trade Center (The Freedom Tower) which is the tallest building in New York. There are office spaces, an observation deck and a museum dedicated to honoring the memory of 2,893 people who lost their lives on 9/11.