High-Profile: January 2025 by High-Profile

INDUSTRY EXPERT ARTICLES:

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

American Plumbing and Heating Hosts Quincy High School Students

MJ Daly Hosts Interactive Prefabrication ‘Heavy Metal Workshop’

Veolia Announces Partnership to Bring Water Equity to Underserved Communities

Hines Announces Jones Day as first Office Tenant at South Station Tower

Griffin Electric Celebrates 10th Annual National Apprenticeship Week

Maugel DeStefano Architects Celebrates Ribbon-cutting on $50M Facility for Werfen

ReArch Company Completes Two New Hampshire Projects

KBE Building Corporation Honored with CT ABC Awards

Paul Pedini

Kevin Chronley

Jeff Lavery

Max Saia

Bryan Northrop

Skanska, along with other collaborating firms, recently commenced on the design of the $625 million I-95 15 project in Rhode Island. Rendering courtesy of Skanska / Read the full story on page 13.

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With a focus on Forecast 2025, this issue includes insights from thought leaders on the issues facing the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, and how teams are adapting to meet these demands while prioritizing workforce development, embracing new technologies, and incorporating sustainable building practices.

will be keeping membership apprised of evolving design and construction tools/practices, including advanced data capture, AI BIM, smart building materials and prefabrication.

On page 16, Kurt Prochorena, the new president of the Connecticut Building Congress, shares his vision for the organization and how the CBC will address the changing needs of the commercial AEC industry in Connecticut in the upcoming year. One area of focus

On page 13, Bryan Northrop and Paul Pedini of Skanska address the challenges relating to the cost of labor and materials, how construction firms will approach project selection in the upcoming year, and the industry’s continued push to standardize practices that prioritize sustainable design and decarbonization. Pedini says with the wave of price increases taking place in the industry, it is important to have a strategic and intentional approach to selecting projects to best navigate current market dynamics effectively.

In his article, Kevin Chronley of A/Z

Corporation shares how the firm is focusing on sustainability by registering with EcoVadis, which will provide a benchmark performance assessment to support the company’s continuous improvement efforts. EcoVadis’ four areas of evaluation are Labor and Human Rights/ Resources, Impact on the Environment, Business Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement Practices. Read more on page 14.

BETA Technologies’ manufacturing and assembly facility in South Burlington, Vt. was recently honored with a National Project Achievement Award from the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). The facility supports the manufacture and assembly of the electric aerospace company’s

Building

battery-powered aircraft and electric charging infrastructure. The project won the top honor in the Commercial, Sports, Entertainment or Hospitality Greater than $50 Million category. Read more about it on page 34.

Save the date for High-Profile Media Group’s 2nd Annual Hard Hats and High Heels Mixer, which will take place on Thursday, March 6! Women in Construction (WIC) Week is March 2-8 this year, and we are excited to see you all again to celebrate and elevate women in the AEC industry. Stay tuned for details on the location and a link to register for the event.

Our next issue has a focus on Restoration and Renovation, and our first ever focus on Industrial Facilities. This sector continues to pick up speed with the increased demand for large-scale manufacturing and distribution centers. Send us your news and insights relating to these two focus areas. The deadline is Jan. 23.

Enjoy the read,

LARGEST CLT PROJECT

Photo by Chinburg Properties

BETA Technologies’ Manufacturing and Assembly Facility

PROCON Begins Construction on Dartmouth College Residential Hall

Hanover, NH – PROCON announced it has begun construction on a new apartment-style residential hall at Dartmouth College.

The residential hall will be for juniors and seniors and is located on an approximately one-acre site at 25 West Wheelock Street. The 5-story structure will provide 285 beds in a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments. Each unit will feature a full kitchen, living room, and storage space. Designed by Cube 3, this project marks a significant step in Dartmouth’s commitment to

expanding housing capacity as part of President Sian Leah Beilock’s pledge to add 1,000 new beds over the next decade.

“We are excited to get to work on this residential hall,” said Josh Keniston, senior vice president of capital planning and campus operations at Dartmouth. “This project is an important step in addressing the critical need for more housing on campus and in the Upper Valley.”

The building is designed with a strong emphasis on health, wellness, and sustainability, aligning with the priorities

outlined by Beilock. The building will target LEED Gold certification and utilize high-performance materials designed to meet energy conservation goals. The facility is also planned to be net carbon-neutral, relying heavily on sustainable energy sources and being largely independent of fossil fuels.

“We are proud to partner with Dartmouth on this significant project,” said John Stebbins, CEO of PROCON. “Our team is dedicated to delivering a facility that not only meets Dartmouth’s housing goals but also reflects their

commitment to sustainability and student well-being. We look forward to bringing this innovative space to life.”

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in August 2024, and the anticipated completion date for the residential hall is set for summer 2026. The project represents Dartmouth’s broader efforts to meet its students’ housing needs and is part of a larger strategy to provide additional housing for graduate and professional students, as well as faculty and staff.

TYLER TECHNOLOGIES ORONO, ME

BOSTON SCIENTIFIC COVENTRY, RI

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Groundbreaking ceremony

Rendering of Dartmouth College residential hall

Topping Off Held for new Building at Pathway Devens

Devens, MA – King Street Properties, along with BW Kennedy & Co. (BWK) and approximately 70 guests, recently celebrated a topping off at 75 Jackson Rd., part of the Pathway Devens campus in Devens. The event included the raising of a beam signed by the construction team.

“We’d like to thank everyone for their dedication to this project. Because of the teams’ diligent efforts and expertise, we are proud to celebrate this significant milestone on the fifth building at Pathway Devens that we have built with our partners at BWK,” said Tyson Reynoso, managing director/partner at King Street. “We are excited to see Devens continue to thrive as a destination for advanced manufacturing.”

“We are proud to have been a part of an amazing project and development. We want to congratulate King Street on their vision and success at Devens. Our long-term partnership with King Street Properties has been invaluable and we will continue our commitment to highquality, collaborative efforts which has driven exceptional productivity and excellence at every stage,” said Brian Kennedy, president/founder at BWK, the general contractor on the project.

The 210,659 RSF building is part of the customizable, purpose-built Pathway Devens campus. Designed for advanced manufacturing, the building features clear

heights of 18 feet on the first floor and 16 feet, 10 inches on the second floor, with a maximum clear height of 38 feet in the high bay area. These higher clear heights are designed to ensure adaptability for future technological upgrades or reconfigurations in a field where processes and equipment are constantly evolving. The building will also have 12,000 amps of power to accommodate the heavy power needs of companies engaged in next generation manufacturing.

The building is anticipated to be complete in July 2025 and tenant fit out work can commence as early as March.

Photos by George Budri

2nd Annual Hard Hats & High Heels Mixer

Thursday, March 6

Celebrating Women in Construction

Join us for an evening of networking, empowerment, and camaraderie, bringing together tradeswomen and office professionals to celebrate the incredible impact women are making across all facets of the construction industry.

Who Should Attend: Women and allies in construction, architecture, engineering, and related fields—whether on the job site or in the office.

This is your chance to connect, collaborate, and celebrate with industry leaders and peers.

Location: to be determined Stay tuned for more details!

South Coast Improvement Company Awarded 7,775sf Affordable Housing Project

North Dartmouth, MA – South Coast Improvement Company announced it has been selected by Partners in Housing to provide new construction of the MendesMonteiro House in North Dartmouth.

A recent groundbreaking ceremony kicked off the construction of MendesMonteiro House, a 7,775sf, 10-unit affordable housing development for seniors who receive services from the Department of Mental Health. The

multi-residential development is a new construction of a single-story building consisting of a four-bedroom Congregate Housing Group Home and six onebedroom Independent Living Apartments with associated site and landscape work.

“We are thrilled to embark on this transformative project with Partners in Housing,” said Eric Frias, project executive at South Coast Improvement Company. “This project is not just about

construction; it’s a heartfelt mission to bridge the critical gap in affordable housing that I know of all too well from my upbringing in the Dartmouth area. Together, we are poised to transform lives and uplift the community.”

The building is named in memory of two longstanding board members of the Dartmouth Housing Authority: Joseph Mendes and Joseph Monteiro, who were strong advocates for the elderly

and disabled.

“With a proven track record of successful affordable housing projects, South Coast Improvement Company brings expertise and reliability to this collaboration. Together, we are committed to impacting our community’s housing landscape,” said Connie Desbiens, retired executive director, Dartmouth Housing Authority.

Mendes-Monteiro House rendering

Veolia Announces Partnership to Bring Water Equity to Underserved Communities

Boston – Veolia North America announced it is joining with Water Finance Exchange (WFX) to help small and disadvantaged communities improve their water and wastewater systems. As a founding member of the WFX Water Roundtable, Veolia will use its experience, knowledge and energy to help communities find solutions to complex water problems.

With Veolia’s support, the WFX Water Roundtable will help communities identify and prioritize water projects, evaluate their technical and financial resources, explore creative funding strategies, and build the physical infrastructure. At a recent WFX workshop in western Tennessee, Veolia joined regional water sector leaders as well as local, state and federal government officials to share strategies and stories of how communities acquired the technical assistance, funding tools and workforce development necessary to improve water services for their residents.

Karine Rougé, chief executive officer of municipal water at Veolia North America, said, “Everyone deserves access to high-quality water and sanitation services, no matter where they live or what their community’s resources are. Veolia North America’s thousands of employees bring an unmatched depth of

Crews in Crystal City, Texas repair a water main, where Water Finance Exchange is helping the city secure $9.2 million in grants and low-interest loans to address aging infrastructure. experience and know-how to the task of upgrading water infrastructure, and we’re excited to work together to confront the

funding, implementation and operational challenges that are holding America back from fulfilling the promise of water

equity for everyone.”

Brent Fewell, WFX co-founder, said, “We are very excited to partner with Veolia as we expand our work with rural, disadvantaged communities across the country. Their depth of experience in utility operations and knowledge of innovative technologies will help WFX better serve communities in pursuit of sustainable infrastructure and affordable solutions. Forward-thinking partners like Veolia recognize that we only achieve safe, affordable, and sustainable water and wastewater systems by working together. We look forward to growing the Water Roundtable to do just that.” Through the Water Roundtable, WFX and Veolia will develop programs and partnerships that focus on specific community improvements as well as larger regional initiatives, to boost water quality and public health as well as economic opportunity. Veolia will devote its resources to helping communities create the paths to rebuild their water and wastewater infrastructure, and will encourage its employees to volunteer to help vulnerable communities improve their environmental compliance, support public health and spur economic development.

Boston’s Commercial Real Estate Market Sees Remarkable Resurgence in 2024 Focus: Forecast

By Max Saia

After years of trailing behind other major metropolitan markets since 2020, Boston’s commercial real estate sector has emerged as a standout performer in 2024, marking a significant turning point in its post-pandemic recovery. The market has demonstrated robust growth, with active demand surging 18% year-over-year by square footage—the highest increase among all gateway markets.

The renaissance is particularly evident in the technology sector, which has shown consecutive quarterly growth from Q3 2023 through Q3 2024, reaching a postCOVID peak of 612,000sf in the third quarter of 2024. While this figure still sits 23% below pre-pandemic highs, it represents a dramatic 54% increase from the previous quarter. Boston now leads all markets tracked by VTS in year-over-year technology sector demand growth and

ranks second only to Austin in overall technology sector performance over the past year.

The Technology, Advertising, Media, and Information (TAMI) sector has been particularly dynamic, with demand already surpassing 2023 levels by 59% in terms of square footage and 32% by number of tenants. This growth has been accompanied by a notable increase in average tenant size, which has risen 18% compared to 2022 lows, validating VTS Research’s July prediction that Boston would benefit substantially from larger space requirements as companies strengthen their return-to-office initiatives.

Geographic preferences within the market show distinct patterns, with technology companies gravitating toward the Seaport and Downtown areas, while financial sector tenants demonstrate a stronger preference for the Back Bay and Fenway districts.

Unlike other major markets experiencing a pronounced flight to quality, Boston presents a more nuanced picture. Tour activity has grown almost equally for both Class A and Class B properties, showing increases of 11% and 12%

respectively compared to 2023. However, the proportion of tenants touring Class A assets has reached 81% in 2024, marking a 7-percentage point increase from 2020, while Class B tours have declined by 13 percentage points to 38%.

This shifting dynamic has resulted in a widening rent gap between property classes. Class A properties now command a 58% premium over Class B assets based on active proposals, a substantial increase from the 30% average premium observed in 2018-2019. Class A rents have surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 9%, while Class B rents remain 7% below their pre-COVID benchmarks.

Adding to this disparity, Class B properties are requiring higher relative concessions to attract tenants, with

owners offering incentives equivalent to 31% of starting rent, compared to 22% for Class A properties. This trend suggests a growing bifurcation in the market, despite the relatively balanced tour activity across property classes.

The overall trajectory of Boston’s commercial real estate market indicates a robust recovery, with particular strength in the technology sector and a clear advantage for high-quality assets. As the market continues to evolve, the growing rent premium for Class A properties and the increasing importance of concessions in Class B leasing strategies may reshape the competitive landscape for both property owners and tenants.

Max Saia is vice president of investment research at VTS.

General Dynamics (Rustcraft Road)

What’s Next for Construction in 2025

Bryan Northrop, executive vice president and general manager at Skanska USA Building’s New England region, and Paul Pedini, senior vice president for Skanska USA Civil’s New England region, share their outlook on the construction industry for 2025.

Need for More Workforce Development in 2025

by Bryan Northrop

Looking ahead to 2025, one of the most pressing issues facing the construction industry is the shortage of skilled labor, with both craft labor and white-collar construction management teams. While this has been a persistent challenge in the industry for the past few years, it is intensifying as more experienced professionals retire.

As reported in the Boston Globe, there are approximately 6,000 students in Massachusetts on a wait list for vocational schools as our current infrastructure is unable to meet the demand. In addition, students are not often encouraged to consider a career path in construction as there is a general lack of awareness of the various career paths within the construction field and how rewarding a career it can be. In 2025, we hope that there can be a renewed focus on education and outreach to this next generation of potential construction workers, and that industry professionals interacting with them emphasize the rewarding opportunities available to them if they decide to join the industry.

Turning to the issues of construction costs heading into 2025, while material prices have generally reached a stable point, labor costs continue to rise which will ultimately trickle down to companies looking to build. This will force contractors such as ourselves and project owners to navigate tighter budgets and get creative in order to maintain budgets.

As for construction trends, moving into 2025 we expect the local interest in sustainable design and decarbonization construction measures to grow and gradually become the new standard. This will include an increased focus on geothermal and solar energy, as well as

initiatives surrounding adaptive reuse and resilient materials. The greater adoption of these technologies and practices will allow companies such as ours to better help clients and partners achieve their sustainability goals, which will ultimately enhance the sustainability and efficiency of our cities.

Construction Firms to Become More Selective and Strategic in Project Selection

by Paul Pedini

2025 will be an incredibly busy year for our Civil operations in New England given the construction industry is currently experiencing one of the most robust economic times for infrastructure. Skanska recently commenced on the I-95 15 project in Rhode Island. It is the largest project we’ve ever built in New England. There are three projects bidding in the Boston area in the next few years valued between $1 and 2 billion each. We must be selective when assessing the other smaller jobs, so we have the bandwidth to take on one of these large projects.

At Skanska, we have always taken a pragmatic and selective approach when it comes to the projects we commit to, and this will only intensify as we evaluate our ability to deliver with the resources we have.

The future of the construction industry is currently being shaped by a dual challenge: the increasing cost of labor as well as materials. There are of course lingering effects from the COVID-19 pandemic – material costs spiked which exceeded initial engineering estimates, creating financing issues for projects. Now, with an incredible spike in infrastructure projects, there’s a second wave of price increases taking place. This underscores the importance of having a strategic and intentional approach to selecting projects to best navigate current market dynamics effectively.

As the capacities of the infrastructure companies dwindle, owners are concerned that they will get enough bidders on their projects. Never before has strategically targeting jobs for pursuits been as difficult as it is now.

Alternate delivery is currently the preferred procurement model in the U.S. A majority of our projects are best value procurements. They include design build, progressive design build, and CM/GC. These procurements are not necessarily awarded to the low price, but rather to the company that provides the best combination of tech and price.

We use our VDC (virtual design and construction) group in Waltham to create a better way to build the job for projects across the U.S. Owners employ best value contract models to reduce their risk. We use technology to construct the job virtually before doing so in the field. This significantly reduces our risk and the likelihood of financial loss on a project.

We are collaborating with our design engineering subcontractor on the design of our $625 million design build I-95 15 job in Rhode island. This marks the first time a designer is working with the contractor in the same 3D model on a DOT job in New England. This helps ensure fewer surprises with quantity scope creep and unforeseen design issues than has been common on past construction projects.

OneSkanska is also proving to be a great asset. Skanska is the only company in New England who is vertically integrated – capable of taking on projects which feature significant building and infrastructure components. This has proven to be a valuable asset, providing owners with an option where they can deal with one company to manage such jobs, as opposed to hiring a consortium of firms who have not previously worked together.

I-95 15 project

Bryan Northrop

Paul Pedini

Skanska’s Civil and Building teams worked together on the Brookline High School Expansion Project in Brookline, Mass. / Photo by Robert Benson Photography

A/Z’s 2025 Strategic Growth Plans, Inclusive of Sustainability Commitment

By Kevin Chronley

Our strategic plans to achieve geographic and market growth are built on a foundation of performance. A/Z Corporation strives to relentlessly pursue operational excellence through continuous improvements as a progress path toward enhancing our performance and brand. To support and manage our objectives, A/Z seeks confirmation through attaining best-in-class designations from leading industry benchmarking organizations. Our recent efforts include making it a priority to excel in sustainability. Our endeavors to demonstrate corporate responsibility have long roots. A/Z has registered with EcoVadis and CDP, a similar global benchmarking system, to gauge our status in sustainability against a comprehensive rating platform that evaluates corporations across various industries.

EcoVadis will provide a benchmark performance assessment that will play a vital role in supporting our continuous

evaluation will offer A/Z a rating platform to measure, monitor, and manage the framework of our actionable steps toward our objective of betterment.

EcoVadis is a leading provider of comprehensive sustainability ratings. The credibility of the assessment process for the specified areas of evaluation is derived from the fact that the requirements for the substantial questionnaire gather validation of submitted responses and are accompanied by relevant documentation to support our sustainability practices. These documents are then reviewed by EcoVadis experts, who evaluate our company’s performance against the established criteria.

A/Z’s participation in the EcoVadis evaluation process provides us with a status rating, which offers a platform to address areas for improvement and affirm our strengths. This assessment will enable us to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to progress toward betterment by equipping us with the critical insights needed to take actionable steps that will drive A/Z toward achieving Best-in-Class status.

Four key areas will be evaluated to gauge A/Z’s commitment to sustainable growth and to demonstrate our company’s strategic path to building and improving -

A/Z Corporation is a leading design, construction, and maintenance services provider. Our 550+ team members are part of the 100% employeeowned Cianbro Companies, which is implementing more than $1 billion in work every year.

ness practices. EcoVadis’ four areas of evaluation are Labor and Human Rights/ Resources, Impact on the Environment, Business Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement Practices.

A/Z’s current practices align with these areas of evaluation as follows:

• Labor and Human Rights/Resources: A/Z has adopted the “Take Care of the People, The People Take Care of the Company” philosophy, and to best demonstrate this mantra, we have prioritized safety by going beyond government laws and company requirements and by engaging in the education of our team members in a caring culture that focuses on safe behaviors, as well as procedures, to promote safety as a responsibility of all team members. We take care of ourselves, those around us, and those counting on us. A/Z strives to support its employees’ well-being and to apply these efforts in managing our workforce; upholding human rights with equity, inclusion, and diversity; and engaging our workforce in ethical labor practices.

• Impact on our Environment: A/Z acknowledges and embraces our responsibilities as stewards of the environment. Sustainability considerations are incorporated into how we evaluate and demonstrate our environmental impact so that we can manage, reduce, and minimize it effectively. In terms of our company’s environmental impact, we focus on factors such as energy consumption, emissions, utilization of sustainable resources wherever possible, and the control and management of waste. EcoVadis’ evaluation in this area focuses on our efforts to minimize harmful impacts and/or to demonstrate our efforts to achieve or promote longterm ecological sustainability.

• Business Ethics: The ethics component of the EcoVadis evaluation reviews A/Z’s commitment to ethical business practices, which, in turn, reflect the integrity of our company. Areas of review include data protection through security

systems, anti-corruption measures, and fair competition practices.

• Sustainable Procurement Practices: This component assesses how A/Z manages its supply chain and how we work through the pre-qualification processes to ensure that suppliers, subcontractors, and key partners align with our requirements for meeting sustainability, safety, and ethical standards. A/Z’s benchmark supplier evaluation, similar to that of our insurers/bonding or client’s criteria, strives to assess our supplier selection and pre- qualification/risk management program to serve as a demonstration of our company’s commitment to sustainability.

In summary, as A/Z Corporation, a Cianbro company, outlines our 2025 strategic plans and business objectives, it is our aspiration to further achieve Best-in-Class recognition, which includes a strong focus on our commitment to sustainability. Our registration into a benchmark evaluation through EcoVadis is a key step in tracking our path to betterment.

Kevin Chronley is president of A/Z Corporation.

Choosing a B2B PR Agency: Why it Matters for AEC Firms

By Jeff Lavery

As the founder of an agency that focuses almost exclusively on B2B clients, I have strong feelings about choosing a PR firm that understands the AEC and CRE industries. When Pedigree Public Relations competes against other firms, the primary challenge is convincing the prospect in the room that there are very real reasons why they should not choose an agency with a client book that is mostly B2C- or consumer-oriented.

B2C agencies, in most cases, work across a broad spectrum of companies working to sell products to consumers. From small product companies that provide cheap gadgets to larger retail outfits that all of us patronize in some way, a B2C firm can provide ample evidence of being all things to all people, and having the book of business that gives them impressive street cred. But AEC and CRE firms are solidly B2B, and there’s several key reasons why choosing an agency with B2B credentials is essential to your PR program’s success: The language of B2B is completely different. Put simply, B2B communications require an elevated approach to dialog. Whether you’re generating actual content or depending on an agency to communicate

with your clients on your behalf, you don’t want a former mommy blogger handling comms when trying to get approval for an M&A announcement with a tight deadline. Lawyers, engineers, scientists, developers, and so on are surrounded by people with advanced degrees and decades of technical expertise – and you want to put an agency in front of them that previously represented the Big Bang Bubble Blaster?

B2B is a task-limited, high-output environment. Many consumer agencies get into the unfortunate cycle of generating busy work and calling it a result. This is not entirely their fault, as clients often demand work product that doesn’t create much of an impact but can be loosely translated into “progress.” If you work in a B2B environment, we both know your team

would rather see 1-2 emails a week with some meaningful results at the end of the month versus a flurry of daily activities that don’t move the needle. Many B2C firms are unfortunately locked into this way of thinking based on what passes as progress with most of their clients, making them the wrong fit for a classic B2B engagement.

B2B experts get in, get out, and get it right.

B2B firms work in a world where there is minimal time to educate a consultant on the inner workings of their business.

Hiring a B2C agency that then needs to account for several months’ worth of learning curve before they’re able to deliver results will only serve to frustrate your employees, clients, and anyone else you expect an agency to intersect with. Every agency needs some amount of

start-up time with a new account, but a true B2B firm will make that intro period as efficient and productive as possible. If you’ve made the decision to engage an agency partner in 2025, be sure to start with one that truly gets your business.

Jeff Lavery is principal at Pedigree Public Relations.

Pedigree PR is a full-service agency with a special expertise in B2B industries, including construction, real estate and development, high-tech manufacturing, government, and more. Having worked in the newsroom, client-side, and agency settings, Pedigree PR’s team can build a public relations strategy that works in almost any B2B vertical, all while becoming a natural extension of your inhouse resources.

Special Feature

Strengthening the AEC Community: A Conversation with CBC’s New President, Kurt Prochorena

High-Profile’s Anastasia Barnes recently sat down with Kurt Prochorena, the new president of the Connecticut Building Congress (CBC) and vice president at Loureiro Engineering Associates, to discuss his initiatives and the organization’s plans for the upcoming year.

Anastasia Barnes: As the newly appointed president of the CBC, what is your primary vision for the organization over the next year?

Kurt Prochorena: My primary vision is to strengthen our role as a key resource and advocate for the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry across the state. Over the next year, I will promote strong collaboration within our membership and increase engagement through valuable programming and networking opportunities. This will position our members to thrive in a rapidly changing industry landscape.

AB: What are the key initiatives or programs you plan to implement during your tenure?

KP: I plan to implement several initiatives that align with the evolving needs of

our industry and enhance the value of CBC membership:

• Membership: Increase the number of AEC firms and members in the organization to enhance and diversify interactions between architecture, engineering, construction and allied sectors.

• Engagement: Enhance the ways our members can communicate, interact, and exchange information within the organization. Strengthen our members’ connections and offer platforms for mentoring and professional growth.

• Workforce Development: Position CBC as a resource to help fill the growing skills gap in our industry by collaborating with educational institutions and providing visibility to the benefits of a career in the AEC fields.

AB: How do you see the CBC evolving to meet the changing needs of the commercial construction, architecture, and engineering industries in Connecticut?

KP: The CBC must remain agile and well informed regarding evolving industry trends to continue serving our members effectively. As our industry adapts to new technologies and practices, we will focus on:

• Embracing Innovation: Keep our membership apprised of evolving design and construction tools/practices that enhance efficiency and quality. This includes advanced data capture, AI BIM, smart building materials and prefabrication.

• Sustainability and Resiliency: Support the adoption of sustainable and resilient design and construction.

• Regulatory Advocacy: Ensure that CBC members are well-informed about changes in codes, laws and regulations which impact their work.

AB: What are some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing CBC members today, and how can the organization help them navigate these?

KP: Significant challenges that face our members include access to new talent that can sustain the industry’s workforce, and finding effective ways to transfer the industry’s “institutional knowledge” to the next generation of designers and builders. CBC can leverage the collective knowledge of our diverse membership to create mechanisms to foster engagement of potential talent and contribute to workforce development across the industry.

“ CBC will continue to play an instrumental role in shaping the future of construction by serving as a resource for informative programs, creating platforms for mentoring and professional growth, and being a proponent of workforce development to fill the growing skills gap in our industry.”

AB: For current members, how do you plan to enhance the value of CBC membership?

KP: Goals for the year that will enhance the value of CBC membership include:

• Enhance CBC’s Industry Practices Council to keep our membership apprised of evolving design and construction tools/practices.

• Provide our members with exclusive industry insights.

• Offer informative programs that provide current and relevant information to our members.

• Offer more targeted networking events that connect members with potential partners and clients.

continued to page 18

Kurt Prochorena

Bags and Brews Networking Social held in September 2024

29th Annual LeFloch Memorial Golf Outing & CBC Scholarship Fundraiser held in the fall of 2024

Board Officers and Directors

President:

Kurt Prochorena, PE, LEP, LEED AP, Loureiro Engineering Associates, Inc.

President Elect: Greg Putnam, The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

CBC’s 2024-2025 board officers and directors

Vice President: Stephanie Greenman, Gilbane Building Company

Secretary: Andrew White, Tighe & Bond

Treasurer: Joseph J. Spagnoletti, CPA, CCIFP, CohnReznick

Past President: Ryan Scrittorale, Benesch

Directors: David Barstow, GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc.

Richard Bergan, Bergan Architectural Woodworking

Katelyn Birge, Sustainable Engineering Solutions

Louis Faassen, Yale New Haven Hospital

Al Lombardi, PE, Michael Horton Associates, Inc

Edward Carvalho, MJ Daly LLC

Robert Delagrange, Hoffmann Architects

Scott Rowland, Turner Construction

Historian: Martin A. Onorato, Esq., Robinson+Cole

Ex-officio: Michelle Hopson, Hopson Consultancy LLC

Strengthening the AEC Community: A Conversation with CBC’s New President, Kurt Procho continued from page 16

AB: What steps will you take to attract new members to CBC, especially in emerging sectors or underrepresented groups?

KP: CBC will strive to increase its membership by demonstrating the value we bring to industry, organizations and individuals. Through targeted outreach, informative programs and networking events, we will highlight the benefits of membership and the opportunities it brings.

AB: How does CBC plan to address or support industry trends such as sustainability, advanced technology, and workforce development?

KP: CBC’s DEI Committee is diligently working behind the scenes to develop initiatives that tackle key industry trends, ranging from workforce development to health and wellness. We’re excited to see these efforts take shape and look forward to sharing them with our members.

AB: Can you share any collaborative efforts or partnerships that CBC is pursuing to benefit its members?

KP: CBC is continuing several collaborative efforts, including partnerships with educational institutions, healthcare (sector) and industry leaders

including other trade associations like Mass Building Congress. These collaborations aim to create new opportunities for our members and to broaden their network.

AB: How do you envision the CBC playing a role in shaping the future of construction in Connecticut and the broader New England region?

KP: CBC will continue to play an instrumental role in shaping the future of construction in Connecticut and New England by serving as a resource for informative programs that provide current and relevant information to our me mbers, providing networking events that connect members with potential partners and clients, creating platforms for mentoring and professional growth and being a proponent of workforce development to aid in filling the growing skills gap in our industry.

AB: What legacy do you hope to leave as president of the CBC, and what impact would you like to make during your term?

KP: During my term, I aim to make a positive impact on CBC by increasing the number of members in the organization, improving the ways our members can engage with each other, and positioning

CBC program “Innovative Construction in the Digital Age” held in April 2024 CBC as a valuable resource to help address the growing skills gap in our industry. I plan to achieve this by collaborating with educational institutions and highlighting the benefits of pursuing a career in the AEC industry. In terms of legacy, I hope to be remembered as a president who continued the strong advocacy for the organization that my predecessors upheld.

Where’s the Work?

Tuesday, January 14 5:30 - 8:00 PM Hartford Club, 46 Prospect Street, Hartford, CT 06103

Join the Connecticut Building Congress (CBC) for a dynamic panel discussion on Connecticut’s economic health and future opportunities. Our expert speakers will explore key topics, including state-level economic strategies, local development initiatives, and innovative financing and redevelopment opportunities driving growth in the region.

Featured speakers include: David Barkin, Chief Architect – CT Department of Administrative Services

Chris Edge, Economic Development Director for the Town of Berlin

David Kooris, Executive Director for the Connecticut Municipal Redevelopment Authority

Gain valuable insights from Hartford-area development leaders and connect with professionals shaping Connecticut’s economic future.

Thank you to our sponsors:

MJ Daly Hosts Interactive Prefabrication ‘Heavy

Waterbury, CT – MJ Daly announced it recently hosted a “Heavy Metal Workshop” at its headquarters in Waterbury. The event was organized and presented by the Connecticut Building Congress (CBC).

The interactive event was designed to provide architects, engineers and construction manager Connecticut Building Congress (CBC) members an inside look at the off-site prefabrication processes used in the construction of commercial and industrial piping, plumbing, and sprinkler systems.

Attendees also received hands on experience while fabricating as a group. At the event, attendees had the opportunity to learn the benefits of using BIM for prefabrication spool drawings in MEP systems; work directly with BIM prefabrication piping spool drawings to construct a boiler system; collaborate and build connections with fellow CBC members; and learn more to better understand the MEP trades in order to gain insights that bridge the gap between design and hands-on craftsmanship.

Mixed-Use

Boston – Hines, the global real estate investment manager, and global law firm Jones Day, have executed a nearly two floor, 41,000sf lease at South Station Tower, a mixed-used project developed by Hines.

Located at 680 Atlantic Ave, Jones Day’s new office at South Station Tower will provide a work space for employees with flexibility to accommodate future growth. The firm will occupy the 23rd and 24th levels of the building. Jones Day is the first office tenant to be announced at the tower, marking the firm’s first move within Boston since entering the market in 2011. The 15 year lease will begin following the building’s completion in 2025.

“This commitment from Jones Day underscores the demand from occupiers for best-in-class, highly amenitized office space that is close to mass transit,” said Sarah Hawkins, CEO East Region, Hines. “Tenants are seeking projects that deliver a differentiated, elevated experience to their workforce, which is what South Station Tower is bringing to Boston. We are honored that Jones Day has selected it as its new Boston office.”

“As Jones Day approaches 15 years in

Boston, our move to the new South Station Tower underscores our commitment to the firm’s clients and Boston-based businesses and capital providers with local and global legal needs, our talented team of lawyers and staff, the first-rate law schools in town, and the vibrant Boston community,” said Colleen Laduzinski, partner-in-charge of Jones Day’s Boston office. “Our new workspace will welcome clients, foster collaboration and commu-

Founded in 1951, the third generation of the Wilkinson family continues to provide the highest standards of installation, service, and maintenance for all your boiler room

nity, reflect our belief that our best ideas thrive in an environment that encourages being together, and reinforce Jones Day’s Boston office as a premier destination for clients and top legal talent.”

Designed by Pelli Clarke & Partners, South Station Tower is a 51-story mixeduse tower that will feature 680,000sf of office space while the upper 16 floors of the sustainable development will feature residences branded and managed by

The Ritz-Carlton. The building will also feature a nearly 1-acre private park 120 feet above the city for tenants and residents. The project also includes the expansion of the existing multi-modal transportation center at South Station, which will increase the transportation hub’s capacity by approximately 50%. It will also improve the streetscapes with new sidewalks, granite curbs, streetlights, and greenery.

Red Oak Apartments Project Completed

Manchester, NH – North Branch Construction announced the completion of the Red Oak Apartments project at 83 Hanover Street in downtown Manchester.

The 5-story, 35,000sf, late 1800s wood-framed, brick-faced building has been transformed into a mixed-use development featuring modern residential apartments and commercial spaces. The project also involved the addition of 1,750sf for a high-end restaurant that includes a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen. Floors 2-5 offer mid- to upperlevel residential apartments in a variety of unit sizes and configurations, ranging in size from 328sf to 939sf.

The project involved a comprehensive renovation of the existing building, which had been vacant for years, while respecting its historic character and incorporating modern amenities and infrastructure. This included historic preservation-sensitive updates to the building’s facade and structural integrity. Modernization of the building’s infrastructure and amenities included the installation of a new elevator and upgrades to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

“The completion of the project at 83 Hanover Street for Red Oak Apartments project is a significant milestone for both North Branch Construction and

A semi-furnished unit at Red Oak Apartments at 83 Hanover Street the City of Manchester,” said Joseph H. Campbell, president at North Branch Construction. “We are proud to have been part of transforming this historic building into a vibrant mixed-use space that will contribute to the city’s continued growth and revitalization. This project not only brings much-needed residential space to downtown, but also introduces a high-end restaurant that will enhance the local dining scene.”

South Station Tower / Rendering courtesy of DBOX

Spectrum IT Upgrades Security Systems at International Place in Boston

Boston – Spectrum Integrated Technologies (Spectrum IT), the lowvoltage technology division of J&M Brown Company, has reached substantial completion of the multifaceted security renovation and modernization project at International Place in Boston.

The project scope entailed Spectrum IT’s comprehensive lobby security system enhancements, including the installation of Orion Entrance Control Turnstiles, integration of Elevator Destination Dispatch technology, and installation of HANWA Vision security cameras. Representatives say that Spectrum’s installation of an advanced Lenel/OnGuard Security Management System as well as a Milestone Video

Management System are integral aspects of the project. The project required updating the entire lobby security system infrastructure of the mixed-use high-rise office tower, including all cabling and the IT network backbone.

Terry Kilduff, Spectrum IT’s manager of security operations, and foreman Eddie Amaro headed the project team, supervising the NECA Boston Chapter contractor’s crew of IBEW Local 103 technicians. The fast-track project commenced in May 2024 and is on schedule for completion this month.

Spectrum IT is serving on a project team headed by general contractor Columbia Construction. The project

OPENING 2025

One

security consultant is ADRM and The Chiofaro Company is the owner of International Place. Under separate contract, J&M Brown is providing electrical construction services for the lobby renovation project at One International Place.

International Place, comprised of One International Place (46 stories) and the adjoining Two International Place (35 stories), are located along the Rose Kennedy Greenway at the intersection of the Financial District and Boston’s Seaport. The project is part of a $100 million renovation to the lobbies and entrances of both One and Two International Place.

Astronomy Center & Planetarium at Stamford Museum and Nature Center

Two International Place

Two International Place lobby

International Place lobby

Boston’s Planning Department Advances Planning and Design Initiatives

Boston – Boston’s Planning Department recently recommended approval of the Boston Design Vision, the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Guidebook, and seven new development projects to the BPDA board. All were approved.

The 2-story building which currently houses the Animal Rescue League of Boston at 10 Chandler Street in the South End will be demolished and replaced with a completely new, 3-story modernized animal shelter and veterinary clinic, and an improved public realm. The all-electric project will include new accessible sidewalks, ground floor bike storage, and open space.

As part of the city’s Office to Residential Conversion Program, the 259-267 Summer Street project will convert what is currently semi-vacant office space into a mixed-use building of commercial space and housing on the South Boston Waterfront. This project will contain 77 new units of housing, including 15 income-restricted units.

The sidewalks in the vicinity of the site will be reconstructed to improve the pedestrian experience, and the Boston Wharf Company sign which is currently neon will be preserved and replaced with more efficient LED lights.

The project at 99-105 Addison Street will create a 4-story, 20-unit residential building in East Boston. There will be four one-bedroom units and 16 twobedroom units. The building will be compliant with PLAN: East Boston and all residential uses will be elevated two feet to account for sea level rise. Streetscape improvements will be made along Addison Street to enhance the area for bikers and pedestrians.

The project at 1690-1700 Hyde Park Avenue will bring 115 housing units and retail space to Hyde Park. The sidewalk along Hyde Park Avenue will be widened to improve the pedestrian experience,

and a bike lane will be put in. This project will also create a new short-term drop-off area for Uber and Amazon type drop-offs. Included in this project will be at least 23 new trees across the site and a pocket park for residents and the public.

Located in Hyde Park, the project at 1305 Hyde Park Avenue will turn two lots with vacant two-family homes and a parking lot into a 4-story, energyefficient building with 54 housing units. The transit-oriented development will be set back from the street to create a larger sidewalk and make room for street trees.

The project at 2 Financial Center in the Leather District will renovate over 21,000sf of office space and convert it into lab space. No changes will be made to the building’s footprint or ground floor retail. A roof deck will be designed to comply with the Leather District’s guidelines for rooftop structures, ensuring any new mechanical units will not be seen by the public.

Located in South Boston, the 736-742 East Broadway project will build 12 new residential units, two of which will be income-restricted, as well as a groundfloor restaurant. The mitigation and community benefits resulting from this project include improved sidewalks, bus signage, and new street trees.

Additionally, staff of the Planning

Department advanced the Boston Design Vision which aims to create a humanscale, inclusive, and heterogenous vision for the design of the built environment across Boston, and shape Boston’s public spaces and built environment through design strategies. This work follows more than a year of public engagement in which staff heard from community members about what kinds of design make their communities feel like home. The report includes the design principles which guide this work, as well as new ideas and a five-year roadmap for moving the Design Vision forward within future design and development.

Staff of the Planning Department also advanced the new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Guidebook which features realistic, buildable designs tailored to Boston’s neighborhoods that offer a clear starting point to help residents more easily move forward with building an ADU. Staff will use the guidebook as a reference in preparing recommendations to the Board of Appeal for zoning relief, since most of the ADUs outside of Mattapan will require zoning relief under current zoning. Based on the ADU Guidebook, and building on zoning adopted last year to enable attached and detached ADUs in Mattapan, the Planning Department is now embarking on a study of small-scale residential zoning and ADUs through the new Neighborhood Housing zoning initiative.

1305 Hyde Park Avenue

259-267 Summer Street

10 Chandler Street

99-105 Addison Street

1690-1700 Hyde Park Avenue

736-742 East Broadway

South Standard Multifamily Development Opens in South Boston

Boston – South Standard and its adjacent outdoor public space, The Green, have opened as the cornerstone piece of the five-acre Washington Village mixeduse development in the Andrew Square neighborhood of South Boston.

South Standard built on an underutilized industrial site and offers floorplans ranging from studio apartments to three-bedroom units for working professionals and families. Each apartment design features expansive views, natural light, and modern finishes.

it’s incredible to see the vision for this development come to life, bringing meaningful benefits to the community and vibrancy to Andrew Square.”

and create a live, work, and play village that activates Andrew Square and builds up a sustainable and safe neighborhood.”

Developed by Samuels & Associates and designed by architecture and interior design firm PCA, South Standard is the shared vision of the Washington Village development team, the Andrew Square Civic Association, and the City of Boston. The 214-unit residence was

J&Bad23(NEREJ).qxp_Layout 1 6/22/23 11:54 AM Page

“In partnership with Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation and Core Investments, Inc., we are thrilled to celebrate the completion of South Standard,” said Peter Sougarides, principal at Samuels & Associates. “With residents now settling into the property,

“The development and design team could not have reached this opening milestone without the invaluable feedback of the Andrew Square Civic Association, and the Andrew Square community,” said Mark Eclipse, principal at PCA.

“The community was enthusiastic and supportive of the opportunity to transform the underutilized properties

Adjacent to South Standard is The Green at Washington Village, an open green space hosting neighborhoodfocused programs including outdoor fitness sessions and live music performances. Additional tenant amenities include an enclosed courtyard, an elevated lounge with skyline views, a fitness center, and a dog grooming spa.

South Standard – lobby

Erland Construction Completes Mass. Education Projects

Chelmsford, MA – Erland Construction, in partnership with TBA Architects, announced the completion of Breakwater House, a new 23,000sf facility on the Lighthouse School campus in Chelmsford. The state-of-the-art building will provide a centralized space for the school’s bioeducational, vocational, and therapeutic services, supporting its 56year mission to nurture and empower special needs students.

Breakwater House was built to enhance the student experience by bringing all curriculum and educational services to one central campus. The new facility

includes an indoor play space, a library, an art room, nurse and teaching offices, and additional classrooms, all designed to promote total life development. In addition to the covered spaces the new building provides, Erland also constructed a new parking lot to support the growing needs of the school community.

Ben McConchie, academic group manager at Erland, said, “It’s been wonderful becoming a part of the Lighthouse School community, from joining in their many traditions to celebrating the end and start of the school year together. We’re thrilled to have been a part of this journey with them and to see everyone come together on one campus.”

Erland Construction also announced the completion of two projects for Springfield College: the Bugbee Family Pavilion and the renovation of Kresge Gymnasium.

The Bugbee Family Pavilion is a 2,000sf multi-use facility located alongside Stagg Field. Designed in collaboration with Amenta Emma Architects, the pavilion celebrates the enduring contributions of Coach Keith Bugbee (G’84) and his family to the men’s lacrosse program.

Positioned at the north end of the home bleachers, the pavilion is designed to reflect the Bugbee family’s values of simplicity, strength, and traditional New England charm. Its durable construction includes metal panel siding, a storefront armor wall glazing system, and vented double-paned glass. Inside, a donor wall honors the Bugbee family’s legacy, while “Lindsay’s Lookout,” an elevated viewing platform, stands as a tribute to Coach Bugbee’s daughter. The pavilion is designed to serve as a versatile space for both athletic and community activities, providing a gathering area for families to enjoy the game and participate in postgame tailgating. Additionally, it offers the college a space for team instruction, film review, meetings, and conferences.

The Kresge Gymnasium renovation included a 7,965sf update, completed

in partnership with SMMA. Serving as the home for the college’s gymnastics program, this renovation brings a host of improvements, including the installation of an in-ground foam pit system. The space also received new lighting, doors, and glazing, along with a fresh coat of paint, enhancing the facility’s overall aesthetics and functionality.

The completion of these projects marks Erland’s seventh and eighth collaborations with Springfield College. “These projects are a testament to Springfield College’s strong athletic programs, and we are honored to have played a role in bringing them to life,” said Jake Chace, project executive at Erland Construction. “We share the college’s dedication to excellence, and it’s been rewarding to help deliver spaces that will benefit both athletes and the community.”

Breakwater House / Photos by Emma Lula Creative and Mike Moore New England Drone Photography

Bugbee Family Pavilion

Breakwater Art Room

Breakwater Playground

Kresge Gymnasium – foam pit

ReArch Company Completes Two New Hampshire Projects

Lebanon, NH – ReArch Company

announced the recent completion of two projects in New Hampshire: the Kimball Union Academy (KUA) Housing project in Meriden and The Notch Climbing Gym in Lebanon.

The Kimball Union Academy Housing project involved a transformative renovation and expansion of campus housing for students and faculty. Kilton Hall now features two three-bedroom faculty apartments, while the newly constructed Howe Dewdney Dorm

adds 19 dormitory beds and a common area. Welch Hall’s outdated section was replaced with a modern addition that includes an additional three-bedroom faculty residence, 18 dorm rooms, and a communal space with a full kitchen, dining area, and entertainment features. Representatives of ReArch Company say KUA’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and environmental stewardship is evident throughout the project. Energyefficient upgrades include a geothermal heating and cooling system that supports

the academy’s sustainability goals.

The second project, The Notch Climbing Gym, introduces the Upper Valley to a state-of-the-art climbing facility. Spanning 13,205sf, the gym offers a modern indoor climbing experience with bouldering, roped climbing, a training zone, free weights, cardio equipment, yoga classes, and educational programming. The facility is designed for versatility and comfort and includes private and public restrooms, locker/changing rooms, and showers.

Constructed with a steel frame and insulated metal panel siding, the gym features a membrane roof with infrastructure to support future photovoltaic (PV) solar arrays, ensuring alignment with the region’s focus on renewable energy. The project broke ground in January 2024.

“We are proud to have contributed to two projects that enrich their communities and showcase a commitment to a more sustainable future,” said John Illick, CEO of ReArch Company.

Kimball Union Academy Housing project

The Notch Climbing Gym

$16M Bond Issued for new Recreation Center at Brimmer and May School

Chestnut Hill, MA – MassDevelopment has issued a $16.5 million tax-exempt bond on behalf of the Brimmer and May School (Brimmer), an independent day school in Chestnut Hill serving students in pre-K through grade 12.

Brimmer will use proceeds to demolish an outdated gymnasium on the school’s campus and in its place build a new approximately 26,000sf recreation and wellness center that will feature a basketball gymnasium, classrooms, locker rooms, and nurse and trainer offices. The tax-exempt bond, purchased by 233 Genesee Street Corporation, a subsidiary of M&T Bank, helped Brimmer achieve a lower cost of capital.

“Development is a team sport, and we’re glad to have teamed up with the Brimmer and May School to invest in the physical growth, health, and well-being of its students,” said MassDevelopment deputy director and senior executive vice president, Marcos Marrero. “By partnering with banks like M&T Bank, MassDevelopment can deliver taxexempt financing for independent schools working to score improvements or expand their campuses.”

Founded as the Brimmer School in 1887 and the May School in 1880, these two schools merged in 1939. In 1954, The Brimmer and May School moved to its

Brimmer and May School recreation center / Rendering courtesy of the Brimmer and May School

current seven-acre campus in Chestnut Hill and became fully co-educational in 1992. Today, the Brimmer and May School has three divisions (Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School) and serves approximately 400 students.

“The development of our new athletic facilities represents a transformational step forward for Brimmer and May School, enabling us to continue providing an exceptional educational experience for students and families in the Greater Boston area,” said Brimmer and May School chief financial officer, Julian Hickman. “These new facilities will bring many

benefits to Brimmer and May School and the surrounding community: the ability to host concurrent practices, much-needed spectator space, increased fitness offerings, and four additional classrooms to better meet our academic scheduling needs. As a new venue that will be able to host the entire student body as well as provide versatile event space for community gatherings, this project strengthens

our commitment to holistic student development and enriches the overall Brimmer experience. Head of School Judith Guild and I are deeply grateful for the generous support we have received from the Brimmer community, as well as our partners at M&T Bank and MassDevelopment for their invaluable collaboration in bringing this vision to life.”

North Branch Completes School Reno

Concord, NH – North Branch Construction announced the completion of several renovations at St. Paul’s School in Concord. The renovations, which took place over the summer, focused on the Coit Dining Hall and aimed to enhance the dining experience for students and staff.

The project included a comprehensive range of upgrades and improvements, beginning with the installation of a new epoxy floor in the dish room. The flooring is designed to be durable and easy-tomaintain to help streamline operations and improve cleanliness in one of the busiest areas of the dining hall. In the kitchen area, North Branch Construction facilitated mechanical and electrical upgrades to support new kitchen and service equipment. These upgrades were designed to improve efficiency, safety,

and the ability to handle increased food preparation demands. A new food storage room was built and finished in the Middle Dining Hall. This new space offers enhanced storage capacity, designed to ensure that St. Paul’s School can better manage food inventory and supply for its dining services. The corridors of Coit Dining Hall were updated with new finishes and trim work to create a refreshed, modern aesthetic throughout the space.

“We are pleased to have partnered with St. Paul’s School to complete these essential renovations,” said Joseph H. Campbell, president of North Branch Construction. “The improvements we’ve made to the Coit Dining Hall will help the St. Paul’s School community provide excellent service to students and staff for years to come.”

St. Paul’s School’s Coit Dining Hall

Healthcare

Wellesley, MA – Vantage Builders, Inc. announced that it completed the fit-out of a new 4,500sf primary care center for Mass General Brigham, located at 981 Worcester Street in Wellesley.

The new physicians office features ten examination rooms, five doctor/medical assistant stations, a phlebotomy center and a large medical room. The design of the building includes a well lit, welcoming reception area and a comfortable waiting room with plentiful patient seating. There

are new private offices and a breakroom/ kitchen area for doctors and staff, as well as a call center.

The Vantage team completed the firstfloor buildout while the building remained open to its other medical office tenants, one located adjacent to the space and one on the second floor. The Vantage team coordinated closely with Mass General Brigham, the other tenants, and building ownership, Stonewood Companies, to ensure no disruption during construction.

Organizations and Events

Mass General Brigham Completes 4,500sf Primary Care Center

PWC CT Welcomes New Board

Hartford, CT – The Professional Women in Construction Connecticut Chapter (PWC CT) recently welcomed its new board of directors for the 2021-2022 program year.

Patricia Bilotto returns as chapter president. She is the manager of marketing and business development for van Zelm Engineers. She has nearly 30 years of experience in marketing, communications, and business development in the AEC industry, and presently serves on the program, membership, and awards committees.

“We have completed many medical office buildouts over the years and we are familiar with the challenges that the projects bring,” said John Connor, principal, Vantage Builders. “Projects for our medical clients are particularly gratifying, as we are creating the space where members of the community will receive care.”

Kurth,

Carolyn Kurth, CPA, CFE, of CohnReznick, will return as treasurer. She serves on the scholarship committee.

Laurann Asklof, principal of Shipman & Goodwin, LLP, will serve on the board as vice president. She has approximately 30 years of experience in the area of construction law and litigation. She will continue to participate in the chapter’s programs, mentorship, and scholarship committees.

The project team also included Phase Zero Design architects and Long Consulting Engineers.

Dawn Meeker, director at Marcum, LLP, is returning for a second year as chapter secretary. She now serves as the membership chair and will continue as a volunteer on the awards committee.

awards committee.

Kim Colapietro, partner of EDI Landscape, LLC, returns for her third year on the board. She serves as the awards committee chair.

board on

year.

manager

Kyma Ganzer, project manager at

Photos courtesy of Surette Media Group

The 2021-2022 PWC CT board (l-r): Choity Khan, Kyma Ganzer, and Jennifer

Carolyn

CPA, CFE, of CohnReznick, will return as treasurer. She serves on the scholarship committee.

Dawn Meeker, director at Marcum, LLP, is returning for a second year as chapter secretary. She now serves as the membership chair and will continue as a volunteer on the

Kyma Ganzer, project

LaRosa her recipient Rising mentorship Robinson board on Companies, year. committee

The 2021-2022 PWC CT board (l-r): Choity Khan, Kyma Ganzer, and Jennifer

Maugel DeStefano Architects Celebrates Ribbon-cutting on $50M Werfen Facility

Ribbon-cutting ceremony

Bedford, MA – A ribbon cutting was held recently to celebrate the grand opening of Werfen’s new Advanced Research and Development facility in Bedford. Werfen focuses on specialized diagnostics in the areas of hemostasis, acute care diagnostics, and autoimmunity. The $50 million, 2-story building includes sustainable features and adds 169,500sf to the existing facility. It houses Werfen’s

Hemostasis and Acute Care Diagnostics Technology Center, and features 27,500sf of laboratory space and 91,000sf of office space on each level, situated above 51,000sf of ground-level parking for 160 vehicles.

Project team members in attendance at the ribbon cutting included representatives of Integrated Builders, Maugel DeStefano Architects, NorthStar Project and Real

Werfen’s Advanced Research and Development facility

Estate Services, Union Office Interiors, and Wozny Barbar & Associates. Other project team members include Entegra + Architectural Health, Haley & Aldrich, Sladen Feinstein, Summit Engineering, and VHB.

Marc Rubiralta, chairman of Werfen, was joined by Bedford Town Manager Matt Hanson, Director of Housing and

Economic Development in Bedford Eric Salerno, and the town’s Code Enforcement Director Chris Laskey. Other Werfen officials who attended the grand opening included COO Giovanni Russi, Chief Manufacturing and Supply Chain Officer Mark Olsen, VP of Human Resources Tony Baretti, and Facilities Manager Brian Reiss.

Ribbon-cutting ceremony

Interstate: Innovation & Excellence in Prefabrication

Prefabrication is the cornerstone of Interstate’s lean construction strategy. Our UL Certified 100,000 sq. ft. Operations Center incorporates innovative disciplines, expertise and technology that encompasses state-of-the-art electrical assembly.

Corporate

Campbell-McCabe Worldwide Announces All-inclusive Suite of Services

Maynard, MA – Campbell-McCabe Worldwide, LLC has announced its suite of Total Opening (Door, Frame, Hardware) specification services for clients in the architecture and construction development industries.

Campbell-McCabe Worldwide, an independent architectural door and

hardware consulting firm, was established in 1866 and has been providing door hardware specifications to firms on projects nationwide since the 1950s. The company provides complete door, frame, hardware, and access control interface division 8 specification consulting services throughout the entire life cycle

Acentech Announces Innovation Hub

Cambridge, MA – Acentech, an acoustics, technology, and noise & vibration consulting firm, announced its new innovation portal, The Lab @ Acentech, an interactive platform designed to communicate Acentech’s research, latest achievements, and the application of its new technologies.

Andy Carballeira serves as Acentech’s innovation lead, spearheading research, development and implementation across the firm, using The Lab platform as a stage to articulate the company’s success stories. “We are thrilled to launch The Lab @ Acentech to showcase our discoveries and emerging technologies,” he said. “We are especially proud of our online 3DListening acoustic simulation technology featured in The Lab, where designers and building owners can hear different acoustical treatments in a space with the press of a button. Everyone is an expert listener, and the technology we have developed in 3DL makes all the science and rigorous analysis we do behind the scenes available to the listener. 3DL can put a client in the middle of their future space, allow them to listen, and give us feedback about their priorities, likes, dislikes, fears and aspirations for the acoustics of their space.”

Ioana Pieleanu, principal and director of architectural acoustics at Acentech, said, “The Lab at Acentech is more than just a showcase for new technologies or ways of thinking. Innovation is essential –to keep us engaged, to keep us relevant in society, and in what we are doing. And I don’t think there is another way to grow –as a firm, or as an individual – but through innovation.”

Acentech president, Ben Markham, said, “When you visit The Lab @ Acentech, your ears and mind will be awakened to a world of discovery that Acentech gets to inhabit every day. Innovation is an integral part of who we are – so much so that we have dedicated a new corner of the web to highlighting these accomplishments and opportunities. Please join us in The Lab, to learn and also to contribute. There is no telling what we might do together in the future.”

of a project. Campbell-McCabe has provided this all-inclusive service to repeat clients throughout the U.S. over the last five years.

First, Campbell-McCabe Worldwide provides 087100 door hardware basis of design specification together with aluminum storefront, automatic door operators. This includes direction and consulting for independent door and hardware products to meet the project and client’s needs under the architect’s direction.

Secondly, the firm offers preparation of tailored hollow metal door and frame and wood door (flush) specification, which includes providing consulting on custom door and frame specifications for each unique project to compliment the door hardware. During this process, the company’s experienced team reviews all submittals. This is to ensure continuity for all bids and accuracy in product selection, laying the groundwork for a smooth construction administration phase and minimizing RFI’s so the project remains on schedule.

Finally, the firm provides detailed electromechanical diagram elevations to be used in coordination with riser diagrams. Riser diagrams do not include door hardware specifics, so the diagrams Campbell-McCabe provides serve as a visual representation of the door and frame, electric door hardware and power placements and include associated HWSets, product item name, description, numbers, and manufacturer. Using Campbell-McCabe for these diagrams provides the project team with a valuable resource during construction administration.

“Not one other consultant or subconsultant participates consistently

day in and day out, from inception to occupancy, the way we do. We engage from schematic design through every design phase and are involved in construction administration including during final coordination and changes, and updates that occur after a building opens,” said Matt Lewis, AHC, Assoc. Arch, CDT, LEED AP, senior specification consultant at CampbellMcCabe.

“By engaging our firm early in the design process, our clients can be sure that all bases are covered with the door/frame/ hardware design and execution. Utilizing our full suite of services creates continuity resulting in smoother transitions during construction document phases through close-out of the project,” said Susan McCabe Messier, DHT, principal and owner of Campbell-McCabe Worldwide. “The nature of architecture and design is that design requirements are always changing. Our highly experienced consulting team are life-long, career and credentialed experts in providing door and hardware specifications with access control interface in the architecture and construction industries, and prepared as stewards of door, frame, and hardware to successfully navigate the constantly changing dynamics each unique project presents.“

Campbell-McCabe Worldwide recently received two women-owned business certifications from the Women-owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program (WOSB) and the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). The firm is also a certified Women’s Business Enterprise in the state of Massachusetts.

Campbell-McCabe Worldwide recently assisted the design team with door and hardware consulting specifications on the Sora at Spring Quarter mixed-use project in Atlanta, for client Cooper Carry Architecture, Interior Design.

Campbell-McCabe Worldwide recently provided Cooper Carry Architecture, Interior Design with its full suite of services on Modera Nations, a mixed-use development in Nashville, Tenn. on the project,

Cresa Boston Oversees Just A Start’s HQ Relocation in Cambridge

announced

to realize their full potential. Its programs include affordable housing, education and job training, and comprehensive support services, spanning Cambridge

Just A Start engaged Cresa’s project management team to oversee multiple phases of this project, which gives the nonprofit a central hub for the first time in its history. Cresa was engaged to organize and streamline the many different services, vendors, and activities involved in such a project, along with managing the myriad requirements attached to constructing a space with offices, a bio

lab, an IT lab, and a woodshop. Cresa was retained to coordinate the design and construction of the HQ office space and the installation of furniture, fixtures, and IT and AV equipment, and also facilitated Just A Start’s multi-phased relocation to occupy the new building.

“Working with the Cresa team gave us an incredible amount of peace of mind knowing we could concentrate on serving a population that depends on us every day for a wide range of services,” said Carl Nagy-Koechlin, executive director, Just A Start. “When you have such a major transition in a nonprofit organization,

it’s essential to have a partner who can manage everything from furniture selection to permitting. They were truly in our corner.”

“At Cresa, we see every client as a true extension of our own team, so we embrace their challenges as our own,” said Amy Braun, principal, Cresa Project Management. “Just A Start is an incredibly powerful organization that punches above its weight, and is relied upon by so many in Cambridge and throughout Massachusetts. We were thrilled to help them start this latest chapter in their incredible history.”

Boston – Cresa recently

Photos courtesy of Duncan Lake/Cresa

Training and Recruitment

Griffin Electric Celebrates 10th Annual National Apprenticeship Week

Holliston, MA – Wayne J. Griffin Electric, Inc. announced it once again celebrated the U.S. Department of Labor’s National Apprenticeship Week. Griffin Electric has participated each year since the inception of the federal initiative in 2015. The company participated by recognizing the many students and instructors of its in-house Apprenticeship Training Program, who representatives say continue to have a profound impact on the company’s success. In appreciation of all the hard work these individuals put in

every day, Griffin Electric gifted a Klein Tools 14-in-1 Precision Screwdriver/ Nut Driver to each apprentice and teacher. During Saturday classes, the company also raffled off a series of prizes throughout the day and provided food trucks or a catered lunch to everyone in each of its locations in New England and the Southeast.

Griffin Electric’s fully accredited program is a debt-free alternative to traditional schooling and has helped prepare many apprentices in pursuit of

their licensure to transition into electrician and telecom technician roles for over 30 years. Designated as an approved training site by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the company’s program features a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and on-the-job learning. The program is separated into four levels of instruction and is offered on-site at the company’s Holliston, Mass. headquarters, as well as at its regional offices in Pelham, Ala.; Doraville, Ga.; Charlotte, N.C.; and Raleigh-Durham, N.C.

Dewalt Tool Visits HS for Plumbers Local 12, Greater Boston PCA Program

Boston – Dewalt Tool recently visited Madison Park Technical Vocational High School to provide hands-on learning with the latest plumbing tools as part of an ongoing outreach program by the Greater Boston Plumbing Contractors Association (Greater Boston PCA) and Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 12.

“Having Dewalt Tool visit Boston’s only vocational school to teach students how to use the most modern tools on the market is an incredible opportunity,” said Greater Boston PCA director of public affairs, Nick Peck Palermo.

The PCA teamed up with Dewalt, owned by Stanley Black and Decker, to bring workshops to students in the

plumbing shop at Madison Park High School, which is Boston’s only vocational school. The training session gave students a hands-on experience with Dewalt’s latest innovations: everything from their new pipe cutters and expansion tools to proper hangar installation training.

“At Dewalt, we are honored to collaborate with students, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of our products and offerings to support their journey into the trades,” said DeWalt trade specialist, Ryan Tuttle. “We recognize the abundance of information and products available in the market, and our mission is to equip these students with the knowledge and tools necessary

to ensure their success.”

Overall, the event was part of a larger initiative to introduce young people to the plumbing industry and get them excited about a career as a union plumber. The Greater Boston PCA and Local 12 have been heavily involved with Madison Park for several years and are organizing several upcoming events to continue providing opportunities to students, including a field trip to the MIT Fusion Lab. Several Greater Boston PCA contractors and Local 12 members serve on Madison Park’s advisory board and lend ongoing support to the program.

American Plumbing and Heating Hosts Quincy High School Students

Norwell, MA – A group of Quincy High School vocational students recently took a field trip to American Plumbing and Heating’s headquarters in Norwell as part of outreach efforts to introduce more high school students to the plumbing craft.

The visit was organized by Jim Bent, director of plumbing at American Plumbing and an alumni of the Quincy Vocational Technical School Plumbing program. Bent has been an active member of the Quincy High School plumbing advisory board for over ten years.

“My days at the Quincy Vocational were the backbone of my career in this industry,” Jim Bent said. “My education

there gave me a great foundation and hands-on experience so I was ready on day one when I entered the trade. It made all the difference for me.”

Dan Bent, executive vice president of American Plumbing and charter member of the Somerville High School plumbing

advisory board, added, “It’s important we help the next generation of plumbers receive the training they need to be successful in today’s workplace.”

The Quincy students had the opportunity to learn more about estimating and drawing and modeling, in addition to a visit to American Plumbing’s prefabrication shop, where parts and fittings are preassembled to make installation on the job site easier.

The visit was a collaboration between American Plumbing, Plumbers Local 12, the Greater Boston Plumbing Contractors Association and Quincy High School.

KBE Building Corporation Honored with CT ABC Awards

Southington, CT – KBE Building Corporation announced it has been recognized for its commitment to project safety, quality, and excellence by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). The awards were presented at ABC Connecticut’s annual Excellence in Construction Awards event held at the Aquaturf in Southington.

KBE received a Merit Award for the City of Waterbury’s ARPA/ESSER Capital Improvements Program. As program manager, KBE assisted the city throughout the three-year program with prioritizing and sequencing individual projects, solicitation of architects/engineers and construction services for the various projects, oversight of all construction, and documentation of program activities and allocation of the public funds. The project included upgrades to playgrounds, cafeterias, auditoriums, and media centers; ventilation systems and building systems updates at 34 K-12 schools; updates to police labs; and renovations and upgrades to recreational facilities, city infrastructure, and administrative offices.

Additionally, ABC has recognized KBE with its highest safety recognition,

in KBE Building Corporation’s work on the City of Waterbury’s ARPA/ESSER Capital Improvements Program.

the Diamond STEP award. This is KBE’s third consecutive year earning the Diamond level recognition, which is based on the construction firm’s exemplary record of low accident rates on its jobsites. KBE has consistently been recognized over the last 26 years with Platinum and Gold STEP awards.

KBE also earned ABC Connecticut’s

CMAA Awards BETA Technologies Project

South Burlington, VT – PC Construction recently accepted a National Project Achievement Award from the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). The CMAA award recognized PC’s work on the BETA Technologies’ Manufacturing and Assembly Facility, which supports the manufacture and assembly of the electric aerospace company’s batterypowered aircraft and electric charging infrastructure.

The facility included the construction of a new, 188,500sf high-bay building located directly adjacent to the Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport runways. The fully operating facility includes aircraft manufacture and assembly space, office and employee spaces and support areas. Work included substantial site preparation, blasting and excavation, a parking lot and utility road, and a 2.7-acre geothermal field, which is one of the largest in New England.

The CMAA National Project Achievement Awards recognize those construction projects that are pinnacles of excellence and innovation. In 2024, CMAA recognized 17 projects for their outstanding achievements in construction management, with the BETA project winning the top honor in the Commercial,

2024 Spirit Award, which recognizes the construction firm which employed the highest number of ABC member firms on its award-winning projects.

KBE has once again been recognized by ABC as a 2024 Accredited Quality Contractor (AQC). AQC members are recognized for setting the constructionindustry standard as highly performing,

ethical contractors and members of their communities. AQC status is determined by a stringent and thorough set of criteria that demonstrate commitment to five key areas of corporate responsibility: quality, safety, talent management, craft and management education, and community relations. KBE has earned this distinction every year for over 25 years.

Sports, Entertainment or Hospitality

Greater than $50 Million category.

The project required PC to proactively support and address several key challenges for BETA including incompatible zoning regulation impacts, supply chain disruption, and the proximity to an operating airport. In addition, evolving manufacturing requirements caused significant building scope and design

BETA Technologies’ Manufacturing and Assembly Facility

changes midway through construction. Despite these challenges, the project was completed on a drastically accelerated timeline. PC poured the first placement of concrete in June 2022 and BETA started installing equipment on the manufacturing floor less than 12 months later. Recently, BETA rolled its first production-intent electric aircraft off the final assembly line at the facility.

Matt Cooke, PC president/CEO, said, “I am so proud to have been a part of this important project for the State of Vermont, and for the incredible team who poured their heart and soul into the design and construction efforts. This was a truly collaborative project from the start, and the resulting success is testament to that team effort.”

The restoration of the auditorium at Wilby High School in Waterbury, Conn. was one of the projects included

WinnCompanies Awarded for DEI, Excellence in Multifamily Property Management

Boston – WinnCompanies has been recognized as a leading organization in Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DEI) by the Massachusetts Apartment Association (MAA), wrapping up a year in which eight different apartment communities developed and managed by the company earned awards from regional and national multifamily industry groups.

“The strength of WinnCompanies comes from the diverse experiences and vibrant cultures of our talented team members, partners, clients and residents. This award is for all our team members who foster a culture of inclusivity when they come to work each day with colleagues and in the communities we serve,” said Mai Dang, chair of the company’s DEI Committee. “We pledge to continue to do the work to help lead the way in removing barriers and creating opportunities for diversity, equity and inclusion within our shared communities and beyond.

The DEI award recognized

WinnCompanies for significantly advancing and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion within the organization.

Roughly 60% of the company’s team members identify as people of color, with 56% of managerial and executivelevel positions held by people of color. In addition, 46% of team members are women, and 52% of managerial and executive-level positions are held by women.

The MAA’s Communities of Excellence Awards were announced on Dec. 3 and honored exceptional multifamily property styles, of all sizes, and celebrate the best in property management based on service to residents, to the community, and financial performance. Three Winn-owned communities, all created through the adaptive reuse of historic structures, earned MAA Excellence Awards:

• Stone Mill Lofts, an 86-unit mixedincome property in Lawrence, Mass.,

was named Sustainable Community of the Year as one of the first all-electric mixed-income multifamily properties in Massachusetts.

• Whaler’s Place Apartments and Manomet Place Apartments, both 19th century manufacturing factories located on abutting historic properties in New Bedford, Mass., were named Senior Community of the Year.

• Sterling Lofts in Attleboro, Mass. was honored by the MAA as Affordable Community of the Year.

“This year’s award-winning communities represent every facet of the company’s development and management capabilities and earned well-deserved recognition from our industry’s most respected organizations thanks to the work of our talented and dedicated team members,” said WinnDevelopment president and managing partner, Larry Curtis. “These honors also underscore the value of adaptive reuse as a vital technique

for creating affordable and workforce housing inside historic structures. We are proud to be a national leader in the field.”

In addition to the DEI and property honors, Adelia Abreu, an assistant property manager at Curtain Lofts, a 97-unit affordable housing community in Fall River, Mass., earned the MAA’s Rising Star of the Year Award.

Earlier this year, the National Affordable Housing Management Association (NAHMA) honored four Winn properties with its Vanguard Awards: The Gordon H. Mansfield Veteran Community in Tinton Falls, N.J.; 201 Canal in Lowell, Mass.; Mill Street Square in Paterson, N.J.; and Southbridge Mills in Southbridge, Mass. The National Apartment Association (NAA) also named two WinnCompanies developments as winners of its 2024 NAA Excellence Awards: 201 Canal in Lowell, Mass. and Mission Main Apartments in Boston.

GC Firm Receives Awards for Workplace Culture and Financial Performance

Randolph, MA – NEI General Contracting announced it has received numerous awards in 2024 that celebrate its outstanding performance in the field and in the workplace, with honors ranging from being one of the fastest growing companies in the U.S. to its projects winning broad recognition as some of the best in the country. In 2024, the company also landed on regional lists including recognition as one of the “Top Places to Work” by the Boston Globe and the Orlando Sentinel, among others.

Representatives of NEI say it has long been a champion of people-first workplaces with a strong emphasis on inclusion and advancement from within, and its recognition by several programs that evaluate companies on these merits showcase a continued commitment to culture across its geographic footprint. In addition, the company’s strong financial performance

led to its being named to the Inc. 5000 list of the country’s fastest growing companies, and one of its affordable housing projects – the renovation of the historic Knox Residences in Springfield, Mass. –was given ENR New England’s “Project of the Year” award.

In 2024, NEI received the following awards:

• Real Leaders: 2024 Top Impact Company

• Boston Globe: 2024 Top Workplaces

• Orlando Sentinel: 2024 Top Workplaces

• Boston Business Journal: 2024 Best Places to Work

• USA Today: 2024 Top Places to Work

• Boston Business Journal: 2024

Fast 50 List

• Inc. 5000: 2024 Honoree

• ENR: 2024 Top 400 Companies

• ENR New England: 2024 Best Overall Project

“NEI has always aimed high when it comes to the performance of our company in the field and in our offices,” said Josef F. Rettman, president, NEI. “2024 marked one of our most successful years ever for

being recognized as an exceptional place to work and as a company that is making a positive impact. We are proud of our team that helped make these honors possible.”

Stone Mill Lofts

Sterling Lofts

North Branch Construction Donates Safety Fine Program Proceeds to Nashua Church

Concord, NH – North Branch Construction announced it has donated the proceeds from the firm’s annual Safety Fine Program to St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Nashua, N.H.

North Branch Construction developed its Safety Fine Program 17 years ago, with the intent to increase hazard recognition, reduce risk of injury, and create an overall safer working environment for all personnel working on the company’s jobsites. At a minimum, the program requires subcontractors, as well as North Branch Construction’s own employees, to abide by the OSHA Construction Industry Regulations at all times. When safety violations are observed, it is the firm’s objective to correct them immediately. Consequently, the company warrants safety fines for any repeat violations. Each year, North Branch Construction donates all proceeds from the Safety Fine Program to nonprofit organizations the firm has worked with during that year.

North Branch Construction recently worked with St. Stanislaus Church providing structural reinforcement and repairs to timber frame joints in the roof. The project also included the replacement of four louvers and replacement of infill of three windows.

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Nick Trudel (left) and Joseph Campbell (right) of North Branch Construction presented Deacon John Messer (center) of St. Stanislaus Church with a check for the proceeds from the company’s annual Safety Fine Program.

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Babbidge Construction Welcomes Sarro

New Haven, CT – Babbidge Construction Company announced the appointment of Michael Sarro as its new director of estimating.

In his new role, Sarro will lead the development and management of the estimating department. He will focus on private sector projects valued up to $20 million. He will also play a key part in fostering relationships with current and prospective clients and trade partners.

Sarro

With over 15 years of experience in the construction industry, Sarro began his

career as a journeyman mason and later project manager, before transitioning into estimating. Prior to joining Babbidge, he served as director of estimating at Pat Munger Construction Company.

“We’re thrilled to have Michael join our team,” said President Alex Babbidge. “His extensive experience and expertise in both the commercial and design-build sectors will be a tremendous asset to our business, enabling us to provide an even higher level of service to our clients.”

Saam Architecture Hires new Director

Boston – Saam Architecture announced it welcomed Danna Ransom as the new director of marketing.

Ransom has decades of experience working for design firms, and brings a wealth of knowledge in marketing professional services in Boston’s real estate industry.

At Saam, she will be involved with proposal writing and coordination,

interview preparation, communications, and the development of the firm’s mission and strategic vision. In addition, she will play a key role in the firm’s business development by maintaining involvement with professional organizations, attending industry events, and building and maintaining client relationships.

National Dev. Announces New Principals

Boston – National Development announced the promotion of Haley Barrar, Bryan Clancy, Pat McAneny, and Kevin Sullivan to the role of principal within the firm.

Barrar has been with National Development since 2012 and currently serves as senior vice president and chief financial officer for fund management. In this capacity, she oversees the accounting, reporting, and tax functions for the firm’s investment funds, including cash planning, financial statements, investor capital notices, and REIT compliance. Additionally, Barrar is responsible for corporate accounting and will take on an increased role overseeing all the accounting functions of the firm.

Clancy has been a key member of National Development since 1994 and currently serves as senior vice president of capital markets. He oversees the firm’s lending relationships and is responsible for managing extensive debt financing activities, drawing on his depth of experience

in finance, development, and institutional asset-level project management.

McAneny joined National Development in 2019 and currently serves as senior vice president of investments. He has played a vital role in the origination, underwriting, and due diligence of new investments. He focuses on the acquisition of value-add existing assets and development opportunities across multiple property types. McAneny will continue to lead new investment activity and assume a larger role in existing asset strategy and investor relations.

Sullivan has been at National Development since 2013 and currently serves as the firm’s associate general counsel. He will take on the role of general counsel in January 2025. Sullivan has more than a decade of experience in private practice and represents the firm across a wide range of legal matters, including acquisitions, joint ventures, zoning, land use, permitting, finance, leasing, and development.

Weston & Sampson Adds Two

Boston – Weston & Sampson announced it welcomed back Tim Sheehan as director of design in the Boston Design Studio and Kirt Zerbe as a senior aquatics designer.

Sheehan has over 30 years of experience in aquatics and landscape architecture on projects ranging from small residential to municipal facilities and international resorts. He brings a holistic approach to aquatics, incorporating his knowledge and experience from both the design and aesthetic point of view. He is skilled in master planning, detailed design, and project management services for a wide range of projects.

Zerbe has 20 years of experience de-

signing structural and plumbing systems for a wide variety of commercial and institutional pools, including for USA Swimming. He has an extensive background designing ductwork and piping for HVAC, plumbing, and swimming pool systems, and has created 2D and 3D renderings.

Suffolk Welcomes Brault

Boston – Suffolk announced the hiring of Philip Brault as general manager of the Mid-Atlantic region and National Federal Center of Excellence.

He will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Mid-Atlantic region and continuing to accelerate the growth of its National Federal Government Center of Excellence. He will also help drive Suffolk’s efforts to capitalize on the growth of the federal government sector and set new standards for operational excellence in the region.

Brault brings more than 20 years of experience managing complex and highly visible projects. For the past four years, he has managed a portfolio of work throughout the Mid-Atlantic as the regional director for Consigli’s Washington, D.C. team, where he spearheaded growth and development in the region. His portfolio includes significant projects across the federal, education, museum and cultural, hospitality, and public institutional markets.

VHB NE Announces Key Leaders

Watertown, MA – VHB announced it has taken a significant step toward bolstering its New England operations with the introduction of three new leadership positions. This move is designed to advance operational excellence, expand service offerings to better serve clients, and align market strategies.

David Saladino has been named northern New England regional operations manager, overseeing operations in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Representatives of the company say that, over the past decade, Saladino has played an essential role in the growth of VHB’s Vermont operation and provided critical support to the Maine and New Hampshire teams. His experience in fostering robust business practices and strong regional operations will be pivotal in advancing northern New England’s alignment with VHB’s strategic goals.

Bob Penfield assumes the role of southern New England regional operations manager, managing operations across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. Penfield was formerly the managing director of the Structures and Highway group in Massachusetts. Representatives of VHB say he has been instrumental in advancing design-build alternative delivery

services and forming strategic partnerships region-wide, and that his collaborative approach is expected to drive enhanced operational success in southern New England.

Susan Nichols steps into the role of New England regional services manager, where she will collaborate with service leaders to prioritize focus areas and drive best practices across all service lines. The company’s representatives say that, with her extensive experience as chair of environmental services and advocacy for the company’s Innovation Ambassador program, Nichols brings valuable insights and leadership to provide technological and workforce alignment.

Brault

Ransom

Penfield

Saladino Nichols

McAneny

Barrar Sullivan Clancy

Sheehan Zerbe

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