Spotlights

2021 Women in Building Services: Eliana Peralta-Sapienza, BBS Architects, Landscape Architects and Engineers PC

What led you to your current profession?

My dad is a civil engineer and a developer, ever since I can remember, he used to take me to the project sites with him, so my love for

2021 Women in Building Services: Karen Lelo, Alan Margolin and Associates

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A psychologist.

2021 Women in Building Services: Kenne Shepherd, Kenne Shepherd Interior Design Architecture PLLC

What did you want to be when you grew up?

An artist

2021 Women in Building Services: Amy Swift, EverGreene Architectural Arts

How do you contribute to your community or profession?

I am a big advocate of building better pathways for women to get involved in the trades. Representation is important. I’m very petite, and when I was

2021 Women in Building Services: Christine Barshtak, Finaly General Contracting Corp.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A writer.

2021 Women in Building Services: Nancy Colella, NYS Sustainable Corp.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

My desire was in the arts as my father was a painter and I began my career as a designer. A creative discipline is a profound benefit to

2021 Women in Building Services: Chris Giovannetti, Stantec

What did you want to be when you grew up?

After discovering at the age of 10 that I would not make it as a professional ballerina, I became fascinated with bridges. I convinced my 5th grade

2021 Women in Building Services: Daniela Siu, BBS Architects, Landscape Architects and Engineers PC

What did you want to be when you grew up?

My path to engineering began at a young age with my interest sparked by my father (also an engineer), who

2021 Women in Building Services: Sami Groff, Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Growing up I always thought I wanted to be a veterinarian. I loved nature and the idea of treating and healing animals. However, my grandfather was a

2021 Women in Building Services: Niurka Valera, McAlpine Contracting

In the past year, what project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of?

Of my recent projects, I am most proud of The Lois, a $70 million, 250-unit ground-up multi-family development at 350 Clarkson Ave. in