Spotlights

2025 Women in Construction: Kristen D’Aquino, Reidy Contracting Group

What trends or innovations do you believe will shape the future of your field, and how are you positioning yourself (or your firm) to be at the forefront? Technology is transforming the way we work, and at RCG, we’re always looking for ways to stay ahead. Over the past year, we’ve introduced new tools that make communication more seamless, training more accessible

2025 Women in Construction: Nancy Erardi, NYCAN Builders

Who or what has inspired you most in your career, and what advice would you share with the next generation of women entering the A/E/C industry?>My dad was my biggest inspiration. He cemented my work ethic in me and taught me that hard work will pay off. I do and would always give the same advice to anyone that he gave to me.

2025 Women in Construction: Melisa Yepes-Schaefer, Goldman Copeland

What trends or innovations do you believe will shape the future of your field, and how are you positioning yourself (or your firm) to be at the forefront? Energy-efficiency and sustainability will increasingly shape the future of construction and engineering, as buildings account for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions.

2025 Women in Construction: June Perino, Holt Construction

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community? One project I take great pride in is the Delta One Lounge at JFK Terminal 4. I led financial tracking and change management, coordinating with project managers, superintendents, accountants, trade partners, and clients.

2025 Women in Construction: Aislinn McGuire, The Contractors’ Assoc. of Greater NY

What trends or innovations do you believe will shape the future of your field, and how are you positioning yourself (or your firm) to be at the forefront? The Contractors’ Association of Greater New York (CAGNY), is excited about innovations in project delivery, particularly the growth of public-private partnerships

2025 Women in Construction: Maria Serey-Roman, Plaza Construction LLC

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community? One of my greatest achievements has been working with a talented group of estimators. The teamwork and energy during lump sum bidding months is exhilarating, and a testament to our company’s dedication to building jobs we’re proud of. As I transitioned to project management

2025 Women in Construction: Elif Kucukdilli, Wendel

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community? The Queensboro Correctional Facility Chiller replacement was one of my most challenging projects, but also one that I feel the most accomplished due to my growth in skills.

2025 Women in Construction: Lilya Melnikova, PE, Alan Margolin & Associates

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community? It’s hard to choose just one project I’m most proud of, as each one has been special in its own way. From designing a 20,000 s/f home with a cantilevered pool offering ocean views to renovating a 180-year-old church into a local restaurant, each project has challenged me creatively and technically.

2025 Women in Construction: Jeanine Wilson, CM&B

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community?  Becoming a project executive at CM&B marks a major milestone in my career. This role has deepened my involvement in client relations and sharpened my ability to lead projects from inception.

2025 Women in Construction: Hannah Galarneau, The United Group of Companies Inc.

What trends or innovations do you believe will shape the future of your field, and how are you positioning yourself (or your firm) to be at the forefront? AI technology is set to revolutionize the construction and development fields by driving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing safety. Trends like AI-powered project management, predictive analytics for maintenance,