2022 Women in Construction: Merry Barrieres, Equity Environmental Engineering, LLC

Name: Merry Barrieres

Title: Managing Director

Company Name: Equity Environmental Engineering, LLC

Why should women consider a career in construction?
The construction industry offers women a wide range of career options. In addition to the building trades, women can design construction projects; examine environmental impacts of development projects; finance development and construction projects; and manage projects of all sizes. A career in the construction industry provides women the opportunity to be part of an industry that is constantly evolving and becoming more innovative. It is also an industry that will never go away, there may be ups and downs in the market but the construction industry will always be here.

Starting out in the construction business, who or what empowered you?
I started my career in an administrative position at a large engineering firm where I worked with my current business partner, Peter Jaran. Peter encouraged me to work with an independent contractor learning the NYC CEQR process and also to study to become a certified wetlands delineator. That advice put my career on a path that I don’t know I would have followed if it was not for Peter’s advice.

Who within your own firm has helped you succeed within the construction industry?
At Equity Environmental Engineering, my personal and professional growth is encouraged and supported by all the partners of the company. As a leader of a small firm, I get to be involved in a wide range of projects. The willingness to be open to new challenges has helped me to move from an administrative position to managing partner of a successful small business.

What advice would you offer to other women getting into the construction industry?
Go for it. The construction industry is not just for men and there are so many career options in this industry. Get involved in trade associations, find a mentor, develop your professional network and you will realize that there are a lot more women in the construction industry than you thought.

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months?
What I enjoy about being a wetland specialist is helping real estate owners and developers get projects built while making sure they are aware of the various wetlands requirements and protecting the environment.