Poskon of Trinity: Exciting to turn over a great project

Name: Jennifer Poskon Title: Project Manager Company Name: Trinity Building + Construction Management Years in Commercial Real Estate: 10 In the last 12 months, which project, transaction, honor or accomplishment are you most proud of and why? Two things from the last 12 months really stand out in my mind. I received an official promotion to project manager (which I had been functioning as for some time), and completed a restaurant in the DUMBO area of Brooklyn that was quite a transformation of a very old building. It's always very exciting to turn over a great project. What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? I had typical fears that I think most young professionals have, such as wondering if I was good at my job, if I'd be successful, would my co-workers like me, etc. I think my biggest fear, however, was getting into the construction field (which at the time was very male-dominated) as a female - I worried if I'd be taken seriously. I can still remember the first time I was asked if I was the "coffee and donuts girl!" What was your first job and what did you learn from it? My first real job was as an estimating intern at Turner Construction. I learned a lot about construction, how to read plans and details, how to use unit costs to verify subcontractor quotes, etc. I think the biggest thing I learned from working there is just the sheer importance of teamwork. We had a really great estimating team - everyone brought different strengths to the table. What are you doing differently in 2014 that has had positive impact on your career? I'm learning to take one thing at a time, and that it's ok to do so. As a project manager, I tend to try and work on change orders, RFI's, Submittals, and email correspondence all at the same time, which can result in about 10 half-completed emails by lunchtime! As important as work is, you need to find a good work-life balance.