2022 Industry Leaders: Wayne Lawrence, Shawmut Design and Construction

Nominee’s Name & Job Title: Wayne Lawrence, Project Executive - Healthcare

Nominee’s Company/Affiliation: Shawmut Design and Construction

Nominee’s City & State of Employment: New York, NY

What is your management style?

Effective collaboration is my overall vision and management style. Having the ability to cater to different work and communication styles among team members, along with recognizing each individual’s value within the organization or team, is vital to successful management.

Describe what you would consider to be ONE of your top career highlights:

One of my most memorable career highlights was leading a team to construct the first-of-its-kind, 175,000 s/f medical grade quarantine facility at the John F. Kennedy International Airport. Not only was this project unique, but we also successfully executed JFK’s first-ever helicopter rigging program to install rooftop mechanical units.

What leadership role outside of the workplace is most rewarding to you?

I am most proud to be a leader with community and industry organizations to support LGBTQ+ equality and inclusiveness. I am humbled knowing I may have an impact—whether it be through raising awareness or empowering someone to overcome obstacles.

What advice would you give the next generation of leaders in your industry?

This industry is ever changing, so keep up with the times, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and most important—right, wrong, or indifferent, make a decision. Not deciding is more detrimental than making the wrong decision. If you make the wrong decision, own it, make a correction, learn from it, and move forward. If you make the right decision, be humble and ready to make the next move.