6 minute read
LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT
LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT
Christina Pasquariello | Bittenbender Construction, LP
Name: Christina Pasquariello
Title: Operations Manager
Company, City: Bittenbender Construction, LP, Philadelphia, PA
Years in Field: 10
Education: Cabrini College
Q/A
What is your business motto?
I believe in the importance of a well-rounded lifestyle. It’s important to dedicate oneself to hard work and achieving professional goals, but that should be complemented by time spent with family and friends. Success and happiness often depend on how your professional and personal life and managed.
When did you first become interested in your career path?
My interest first started at a young age, my father used to take my brother and I to all different job sites. At home he would take out his blueprints and teach my brother and I how to read drawings. My father would tell us how his grandfather used to do this with him. My Great grandfather who started P. Agnes in 1918 was very old school, he used to tell my grandmother there was no place for women in this industry, she always would tell me that I should do what she could never do. So, for me it was never a question to work in this industry. My biggest motivation is my grandmother. I know she would be proud of me knowing I’m now currently working for 100% women owned construction company who are competitive & leaders in the Philadelphia Region.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? Least rewarding?
The most rewarding part of my job is a happy client. Its always nice to see a client’s vision become a reality and watch them enjoy the space our team brought to life.
The least rewarding is when we don’t get awarded a project. Its tough to see your colleagues put a lot of time and effort into the preconstruction process, and it’s frustrating when you don’t end up on top.
What is your biggest daily challenge?
My biggest challenge is if I don’t understand something right away, I get frustrated and assume I should already understand because I have been in the industry for 10 years now. I am quickly reminded that I’m still young and learning and not expected to know everything.
How do you inspire your colleagues?
I’d like to say that I inspire my colleagues by being supportive, and respectful. I was always taught to treat people the way you want to be treated. I try to come into each day with a happy positive mindset in hopes that it helps the brighten the mood of our office.
What goal are you currently striving to achieve?
I’m not sure that I have a specific goal, I am still trying to take everything in and learn as much as possible. I have been given an amazing opportunity to learn from 2 of the top females in this industry
Emily Bittenbender & Angela Vacante and shadow them on a day-to-day basis. Having a father in the industry running a Large GC firm in Philadelphia I understand the amount of stress and time that goes into his day-to-day, so I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to work alongside them and learn as much as I can.
What project are you currently working on?
I’m not specifically working on a project; I am currently working directly with Angela Vacante – Chief Operating Officer & Owner. She is kindly taken the time to mentor and teach me the operation & financial side of a construction company.
Do you have a life motto? If so, what is it?
With some life events that have happened to me I’ve learned to slow down. My father always tells me “Here and now”, and that is something that I live by. Live in the moment here and now and don’t look to far ahead because you can’t predict the future and don’t look back on things because you can’t change what has already happened.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career?
The most important lesson I’ve learned in my career is never be afraid to take a chance. Emily Bittenbender and Pat Pasquariello have been asking me for the last 8 years to go to Bittenbender Construction to have Emily mentor me. I was always hesitant to do so because I was comfortable at P. Agnes. I took the chance and made the jump back in February and I’ve never been happier. Its crazy to think what life would be like without Bittenbender, and I always find myself asking “why didn’t I do this 8 years ago.” It’s easily been one of the best decisions of my life, and if I never took that chance I’d never know. So, take a chance and go out of your comfort zone – you never know what’s going to happen.
What is/was your favorite CLC event?
My favorite CLC event is the AGC CLC National conference, I like how the AGC takes us to different places all over the US that I probably wouldn’t ever pick to travel to. The content at the conference every year has been great, and the company we travel with is even better. I have built lifelong friendships through the CLC, and this conference is a testament to that.
How do you find that participating in CLC activities benefits you?
Participating in the CLC activities has not only given me knowledge but I have also gained a ton of confidence. I never used to want to volunteer for things or stand up and make a presentation, but after being the Chair of the CLC I now am completely comfortable speaking in front of a crowd. I also really enjoy the Dale Carnage sessions and always have a good take away from those.
Do you have any advice for other CLC members/ young professionals who are looking to advance their career?
Get Involved. Go to as many things as possible. Also listen, as a young professional you are a sponge. Take everything in, listen and learn from the conversations around you, you will be surprised with how much you take in.
What is your favorite thing about being a member of GBCA?
My favorite thing about being a member of the GBCA is the friendships that I have made along the way. I have made lifelong friends through the GBCA, and I am excited to grow alongside all the people in the CLC. I also really enjoy all the events – over the years I have been to many GBCA events and every year the events get better and better.