Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight? 

“Christiana Suppa AIA, NCIDQ should be recognized for her outstanding career in commercial real estate. As a senior project manager, she successfully oversees all phases of design and construction, demonstrating exceptional resilience and adaptability. Her deep understanding of the market makes her a valuable asset to the industry. Always looking for ways to further her professional development, Suppa not only provides her expertise to H2M’s architecture department but the interior design department as well. With a proven track record of delivering high-quality projects, she is a dedicated and driven professional truly deserving of this recognition.” - Kevin Paul AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Discipline Director of Private Sector Real Estate, at H2M architects + engineers. 

What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of? 

I’m most proud of recently earning my Interior Design Certification. This accomplishment marks the culmination of a lifelong passion and a strategic career path within commercial real estate. Growing up, I was always drawn to interior design, but I pursued architecture as a foundation. By securing my architecture license first, I built a strong technical base, which has been invaluable in my current role. Now, as a certified interior designer, I’m excited to leverage my expertise to contribute to the growth of our firm’s interior design services.

What are the most important factors young women should consider when choosing a firm to build their career with? When choosing a firm, young women should prioritize diversity in project types and team members to gain exposure to various perspectives and expand their portfolios. Additionally, seek a firm that invests in their employees through training, professional development, and networking opportunities. Flexibility is another crucial factor, as a supportive work environment with remote options and flexible hours can enhance work-life balance and productivity. For someone like me, commuting to the city every day, sometimes a break from the hustle and bustle is necessary. I find that I am more productive and in a better headspace when I get that break.

Who inspires you most? What qualities do they possess that inspire you? 

My older sister is my greatest inspiration. Her unwavering strength, relentless work ethic, and remarkable adaptability have always amazed me. She fearlessly pursued her dreams, moving across the country alone and overcoming challenges with determination. Her dedication to her career and ability to navigate any situation gracefully and efficiently continue to motivate me. My sister knows how to adapt no matter what life or work throws her way. She can stay focused on the end goal and quickly determine and execute the steps needed to get there, something I try to mirror in my career.