MassBio Partnership Announced to Enhance Sustainability in Life Sciences Industry
Stanmar Advances Construction on Worcester Academy’s Capozzoli Athletic Center
Weston & Sampson Awarded by ACEC for Arlington DPW Facility
VHB Supports South Norwalk’s Growth with Transit-Oriented Development
SMACNA Holds 2025 Fab Forum
F.W. Madigan Company Drives Success in its ‘All in Together’ Approach
PWC-CT Celebrates 20 Years of Empowering Women in Construction
Mass. Plumbers and Contractors Meet with Gov. Healey for Plumbing Industry Day
Drouin
Mills
James Heroux
Garvin
Marybeth Madigan
Allen & Major Associates, Inc. provided civil engineering, permitting, and construction support services for Alexan Chelmsford, one of three Alexan communities in Massachusetts from Trammell Crow Residential (TCR). / Rendering courtesy of TCR Read the full story on page 19.
Portland Plaza Stone
Portland Plaza large-format stones are some of the toughest pavers available in the United States. Designed for heavy traffic areas, such as driveways and village squares, they have a clean, modern look that’s sure to add appeal to any large-scale or commercial project.
When installed in a permeable application, Portland Plaza is an excellent choice for storm water management.
Publisher’s Message
Anastasia Barnes
We thought it fitting to include our first ever focus on Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence in our May issue, which also features the latest Landscape and Civil projects throughout the region. This edition highlights the teams that are increasing efficiency and accuracy in their workflows by incorporating AI tools and sophisticated technology at every phase of the building process. Those tools are also making it possible to advance sustainable solutions in building projects, a topic at the forefront of the Landscape and Civil projects included in this issue.
Suffolk recently hosted its Suffolk Climate Tech Forum, which gathered industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, contractors, designers and public officials
on “overcoming adoption barriers and accelerating climate technology implementation, including innovative materials, industrial decarbonization, renewable energy and data-driven sustainability tools.” Read more about the event and the firm’s mission to “drive meaningful climate action” on page 28.
Our new Advanced Technology/AI focus also includes an article by Steven Drouin of Interstate Electrical Services detailing the firm’s use of AI-powered software to enhance project outcomes and promote a safer work environment. Drouin says, “From initial labor projections to final installations, AI-powered software is adding tangible value at every stage.”
Read his article on page 26.
In our Landscape/Civil focus, engineering firm VHB announced it prepared a targeted transit-oriented development (TOD) plan for the city of Norwalk, Conn. designed to preserve the city’s historic and cultural roots and promote the use of green infrastructure and environmentally sustainable practices, among other goals. On page 20, read more
improvements for residents.
In his article entitled, Resiliency in Action: How Civil Engineers Are Designing for a Changing Climate, Stephen Garvin of Samiotes Consultants says, “With more powerful storms, rising flood risks, and evolving regulations, civil engineers are at the forefront of designing infrastructure that adapts to a changing world.” On page 22, read more about how the firm is responding to climate change by integrating resilient design into every project.
This edition also highlights the teams that are incorporating actionable processes to ensure safety in the workplace. Marybeth Madigan of F.W. Madigan Company explains the company’s key initiatives, which include a Personal Ownership Program, Multiple Communication Channels, and specialized Active Listening Training for leadership teams. She shares the results of the firm’s initiatives and how they are continuing to promote a safe working environment on page 31.
annual Women Who Build Summit was held on April 9-10. I always love having the opportunity to connect with the CI community and celebrate our long-standing relationship in supporting women in the industry. It is inspiring that no matter what discipline, women continue to lift each other up and celebrate each other’s successes.
I also attended the opening night of the BTEA’s 5th Annual Building Trades Recovery Week. It was great to be able to gather with this strong community of people that maintain a steadfast mission to provide resources for those struggling with Substance Use Disorder, and create “a healthier, safer, and more supportive industry for everyone.”
Our next issue has a focus on Healthcare Facilities. Be sure to share your projects, insights, and news, or highlight your company’s impact on the future of healthcare design and construction in this popular issue. The deadline for submissions and ad reservations is May 22.
Enjoy the read,
I had the pleasure of attending two transformative events in April. The Construction Institute’s (CI)
Strategic tax planning is more essential than ever to help reduce costs and boost profitability. Here are the five most important tax deductions an architectural or engineering firm can take advantage of:
Equipment & Technology Investments
Professional Development & Recruiting
Facilities & Infrastructure
179D Commercial Buildings
You can get the full story by contacting Marty Prendergast, or scan the QR code to download our free white paper.
HBRE Selects Erland Construction for Cafe Renovation
Wakefield, MA — Erland Construction has been chosen by Hobbs Brook Real Estate (HBRE) to renovate the cafe at 601 Edgewater Drive in Wakefield.
Erland, in collaboration with Margulies Perruzzi Architects, will reimagine the cafe and dining area to create a more modern and inviting environment.
Erland, in collaboration with Margulies Perruzzi Architects, will reimagine the cafe and dining area to create a more modern and inviting environment. This is Erland’s first time partnering with HBRE. The renovation includes new finishes, millwork, lighting, acoustical ceiling tiles, and sprinkler heads, along with substantial modifications to the building’s existing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, as well as the addition of a patio just outside the cafe. Throughout the project, Erland will work closely with HBRE to ensure building operations
remain uninterrupted. By prioritizing safety and maintaining kitchen services during peak hours, the team aims to minimize disruption to employees and visitors. The updated space will also meet FM standards.
RIVERSIDE MIDDLE SCHOOL EAST PROVIDENCE, RI
“Hobbs Brook Real Estate has a longstanding reputation for providing forward-thinking, high-performing spaces for their tenants,” said Ben McConchie, corporate, commercial group manager at Erland Construction.
“We are excited to partner with HBRE on this renovation, bringing our expertise to transform the cafe into a space that enhances the employee experience and aligns with HBRE’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.”
BOSTON SCIENTIFIC COVENTRY, RI
TYLER
601 Edgewater Drive
KBE Breaks Ground on Seabury Apartment Expansion
Bloomfield, CT – An Active Life Community recently held a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the launch of construction for The Collamore Wing, an expansion of its Bloomfield campus. The event was held on March 25 at Seabury’s campus, located at 200 Seabury Drive, and featured remarks from community leaders and project stakeholders.
The Collamore Wing is a 43,000sf, 3-story addition to the senior living community that will include 24 new independent living apartments. The new wing will connect to the existing South Wing and include 28 covered parking spaces beneath the building. Construction is expected to be substantially complete by March 2026.
Jim Culkin, executive vice president of KBE Building Corporation, addressed attendees during the ceremony. “I would like to thank Seabury for granting KBE Building Corporation an opportunity to contribute to its growing community. We are honored to take part in expanding its facility and creating high-quality housing for its residents. We’re especially pleased to know that the expansion is already seeing success, with the majority of the units already under contract. We’re excited to begin the process, working together with Seabury to build additional living spaces for its residents.”
Representatives say this project underscores Seabury’s long-term strategic vision – balancing housing supply with
PRACTICAL ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES
financial sustainability while continuing to offer diverse, high-quality living options – and that The Collamore Wing will replenish the community’s total inventory, offering a variety of floor plans at accessible price points. By merging smaller one-bedroom units into larger, more spacious homes over time, Seabury has laid the groundwork for the expansion.
“Our organization’s ongoing strategic initiatives are not just about adapting to
change, but anticipating it,” said Renee J. Bernasconi, president and CEO of Seabury. “Through thoughtful planning, we have aligned ourselves with everevolving consumer preferences, ensuring that we not only meet their demands but exceed their expectations. As we navigate this journey, we remain committed to financial stability, empowering us to grow while staying true to our purpose in a dynamic world.”
DiPrete Opens New Mass. Office
Milford, MA – DiPrete Engineering recently announced the opening of its new office in Milford.
DiPrete Engineering is a civil engineering, planning and surveying firm with over 35 years of experience in environmental permitting, civil/ site design, stormwater management, environmental engineering, landscape architecture, and land surveying. DiPrete’s primary area of expertise is in regulatory permitting for both the public and private sectors, with extensive experience in permitting large and medium-sized projects throughout New England. The firm also has offices in Cranston, R.I.; Newport, R.I.; and Dedham, Mass.
“We continue to grow as a team and expand our reach throughout New England. Opening our new office in Milford is another exciting step for the firm,” said Dennis DiPrete, president of DiPrete Engineering. “This expansion
Dennis DiPrete
strengthens our presence in the region and enhances our ability to serve clients across Massachusetts and beyond. We’re looking forward to the opportunities this brings for our clients and our partners.”
Representatives of KBE Building Corporation and Seabury at the groundbreaking ceremony / Photo courtesy of Seabury, An Active Life Community
The Seabury expansion / Rendering courtesy of SFCS
A future resident at the Seabury groundbreaking celebration / Photo courtesy of Seabury, An Active Life Community
The Building Blocks of Success: Griffin Electric Hosts 2025 Apprentice Competition
A leading electrical subcontractor throughout New England and the Southeast for nearly five decades, Wayne J. Griffin Electric, Inc. (Griffin Electric) recognizes that apprenticeship has not only been a cornerstone of its own success, but it has also been a critical component of success for the construction industry. For over 30 years, Griffin Electric and its in-house Apprenticeship Training Program has equipped students with the fundamental skills and knowledge to execute their work safely and effectively, while simultaneously helping to shape their individual careers as future electricians and telecom technicians.
With the apprenticeship school year concluding, Griffin Electric recently held its Apprentice Competition. The company’s Holliston, Mass. headquarters and each of its regional office locations in Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina
hosted this annual event. Hundreds of students from the company’s program were split into small groups, each taking turns rotating across stations of activities meant to put skills, understanding, and teamwork to the test.
Most stations consisted of hands-on based tasks or challenges, such as an escape room and pipe bending, while other activities comprised of trivia and knowledge-based games. Four of these stations incorporated Griffin Electric’s own spin on Jeopardy, Family Feud, Concentration, and Minute to Win It. Based on their performance, teams could earn points at each station, which also included an activity requiring apprentices to safely wire and energize a light. Other activities included a Relay Control station, blueprint reading, and a Snap Circuit Challenge.
Activities allowed students to apply many of the lessons learned over the school year and to put new skills into practice.
Top performing teams were recognized at an awards ceremony, where winners received medals and prizes based on their placement. Raffle prizes were also drawn for apprentices and instructors in recognition of the hard work they put in throughout the year. All apprentices, instructors, staff, and distinguished guests of the company were treated to a luncheon to cap off an exciting and action- packed day of fun.
Fully accredited and designated as an approved training site by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Griffin Electric’s program is a debt-free alternative option to traditional schooling. Featuring a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and onthe-job learning, the four-year program is offered at each of the company’s regional office locations and is designed to provide apprentices with “The Building Blocks of Success” so they are well prepared for rewarding careers in the electrical
trade. Griffin’s apprentices earn excellent compensation and receive full benefits, and are eligible for wage increases every six months, based on grades and work performance.
Apprenticeship is an integral part of who Griffin Electric is and the company is always looking to celebrate and champion its talented team of instructors and apprentices. Griffin Electric will continue to do whatever it can to support its team members to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
Dellbrook|JKS Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Foxboro, MA – On March 4, Dellbrook|JKS gathered its team of 200 individuals to celebrate its 20-year anniversary at the company’s annual meeting, a night dedicated to honoring the past year’s successes and discussing the firm’s vision for the future.
Held at Gillette Stadium’s Sports Illustrated Pavilion, the evening began with a cocktail hour followed by dinner and a program led by President and CEO Mike Fish. During his address, Fish reflected on Dellbrook|JKS’ growth, shared insights from the previous year, and celebrated employees marking 5-, 10-, and 20-year anniversaries with the company. Chief Operating Officer Ed Sople, Director of Human Resources Sandy Parsons, and Vice President of Estimating Joe Yee were specially honored for 20 years of service to Dellbrook|JKS, having been with the company since its founding.
“This milestone is not just about celebrating where we started; it’s about recognizing that Dellbrook|JKS’ success is thanks to our dedicated team and the relationships we have proudly cultivated for the past 20 years,” said Fish. “We look forward to building more of what matters to communities in New England and seeing where the next two decades takes us.”
The event included a video presentation and live, company-wide voting of
Dellbrook|JKS’ annual Project of the Year awards, recognizing excellence in both the Large and Small Project categories, grouped by revenue volume.
In the Large Project category, The Newbury of Brookline, a luxury senior living development by Kisco Senior Living, earned top honors. The project was recognized for its intricate details, semi-historic renovation, and complex, large scale new construction. Other
finalists included the historic Tower Court Renovations at Wellesley College and Ashlar Park, a large-scale residential community by FoxRock Properties.
In the Small Project category, Leland House in Waltham was awarded Project of the Year for its Passive House design, impact on its residents, and strong collaboration with the owner, 2Life Communities. Additional nominees included the Vineyard Wind Operations
& Maintenance Building, used to support offshore wind infrastructure, the Cape Cod 5 Plymouth Banking Center, and the renovation of Union Block Apartments by Neighborhood of Affordable Housing (NOAH).
Together, these nominated projects represent seven of the over 40 active jobs managed by the company in 2024.
The Newbury of Brookline project team (l-r): Field Safety & Risk Manager Devin Henry, Risk Management Specialist Cathy Urban, Superintendent Sean Mannion, Estimator Mason Lebreux, Project Engineer Harry Rodriguez, President and CEO Mike Fish, Project Manager Eddy Robinson, Assistant Superintendent Rute Lobo, Project Administrator Debbie Skinner, Project Manager Matt DiPlacido, MEP Coordinator Brett Storro, Superintendent Harrison Krantz, Superintendent Robert Johnson, Senior Project Manager Jacob Pray, General Superintendent John Kettell, Project Accountant Jared Vasconcelos, and Executive Vice President Jim Tracey
Mike Fish
The Leland House project team (l-r): Project Accountant Suzie Gifford, Risk Management Specialist Cathy Urban, Project Engineer Aidan Murphy, General Superintendent Robert Tierney, Project Manager Nicolas Canesi, Field Safety & Risk Manager Devin Henry, Project Administrator Nikita Montgomery, President and CEO Mike Fish, Assistant Superintendent Jordan Briggs, Superintendent Nicholas Lepore, Chief Operating Officer Ed Sople, Estimator Mason Lebreux, and Project Manager Seth Aronson
The Newbury of Brookline / Photo by Justin Valadez, Dellbrook|JKS
Leland House / Photo by Justin Valadez, Dellbrook|JKS
Topping Off Held for Just A Start Residential Development
Cambridge, MA – Callahan Construction Managers announced that, in partnership with its client Just A Start, a Cambridgebased community development corporation, it has marked the topping off of 52 New Street, the organization’s largest residential development to date.
Just A Start promotes equity and creates pathways to economic opportunity by providing affordable housing, career training, and comprehensive support services. The development at 52 New Street is designed to further that mission by building 106 affordable apartments for families of varying incomes. In addition to the affordable residential component, Callahan is overseeing the construction of 3,875sf of commercial space on the ground floor.
“Callahan Construction Managers has been a vital partner in bringing 52 New Street to life,” said Just A Start executive director, Carl Nagy-Koechlin. “Their expertise and commitment to affordable housing help ensure more families have access to stable, high-quality homes in Cambridge. We’re grateful for their collaboration in making this vision a reality.”
In addition to partnering with Just A Start to provide maximum value against the budget requirements, Callahan will ultimately deliver a residential facility that complies with Passive House
International standards, in turn creating an ultra-low energy project that aligns with both city and state goals of reducing energy consumption. The company is also working with Just A Start to drive engagement in Boston’s Youth Build initiative to bring more young
into the trades.
“The mission of Just A Start leads to creating better outcomes for individuals and families that have the potential for greater things, but they need a solid foundation to build from,” said Stephen Callahan Jr., vice president – business development for Callahan. “At Callahan, we have been honored to partner with Just A Start and be a part of the team that is bringing 52 New Street to fruition, with today’s milestone an achievement for all stakeholders as well as the residents of Cambridge.”
Topping-off ceremony for 52 New Street people
Marcus Partners Signs Deal in Taunton
Taunton, MA – Marcus Partners announced an industrial outdoor storage (IOS) and ground-up, build-to-suit deal with a large utility provider at 425 John Quincy Adams in Myles Standish Park in Taunton.
This will be the firm’s second office teardown to industrial change of use project in the park. The project is expected to deliver in late 2025.
“We are seeing demand from users who want IOS with quality ancillary facilities in prime locations,” said Josh Berman, principal, head of construction
at Marcus Partners. “The current market demands strategic thinking and creative approaches to change-of-use opportunities in order to maximize underutilized sites.”
The property was formerly home to a 95,000sf office building and is comprised of two adjacent parcels: a 4.4acre industrial development site (office teardown) and a 3-acre IOS site. The lease with the user includes 4.4 acres improved by a ground-up 40k SF ancillary flex building and 3 acres of industrial outdoor storage (IOS).
Alpine Certified as WOSB
Chelmsford, MA – Alpine Environmental, a provider of asbestos and lead paint abatement, is now officially Federal SBA WOSB certified. This certification follows its MA SDO WBE/MBE certification by the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office (SDO), which was received a few months prior.
In 2024, newly elected CEO Theresa Hazelrigg, along with Kristen Hettig (Peik), and Leslie Peik, became controlling stakeholders in Alpine Environmental, making the firm a women- and minorityowned business.
The Federal SBA WOSB certification
allows Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs) to qualify for set-aside contracts in federal contracting opportunities, giving them access to a specific pool of reserved contracts. These set-asides are designed to help provide a level playing field for women business owners by offering opportunities that may not be accessible otherwise.
Representatives of Alpine Environmental say they are thrilled to embark on this new phase of the company, reaffirming their dedication to clients and embracing strong, collaborative partnerships.
(l-r): Kristen Hettig (Peik), marketing manager; Theresa Hazelrigg, CEO; and Leslie Peik, marketing and client appreciation / Photo by NEW ENGLAND PARADIGM
Ground Broken on Seabury Apartment Expansion
Stonington, CT — KBE Building Corporation, in collaboration with READCO Property Management, recently celebrated the official groundbreaking of Stonington Village, a new multi-use development located in Stonington.
The ceremony included demolition work of the existing Regal Cinemas theater, which closed its doors in September of 2022. The event was attended by KBE CEO, Mike Kolakowski; representatives from READCO Property Management; state and local officials; and members of the Stonington community.
Stonington Village is set to be a threephase mixed-use project, combining a new residential community with commercial offices and recreational facilities. The first phase will focus on residential construction, and will consist
of two 36-unit, 3-story apartment buildings. Along with these new homes, KBE will also be constructing a 5,720sf single-story clubhouse to be available for new families.
Attention to Detail from Start to Finish
At Abbot, our management team pays strict attention to every detail of your masonry restoration project.
Whether it is coordination with architects, engineers, and sub-contractors, supervising our skilled masons, or dealing with challenging situations that may arise, you can feel confident that your project will be handled seamlessly from conception to completion.
The Stonington Village development is part of a broader initiative supported by the Connecticut Department of Housing and the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) to expand
access to affordable housing across the state. In alignment with this goal, 20% of the residential units will be designated for middle-income families.
“We’re honored to serve as the construction manager at risk for the Stonington Village project,” said Kolakowski. “This development represents an exciting opportunity to bring thoughtfully designed, accessible housing to Stonington. Our team is committed to delivering this project safely, efficiently, and with the craftsmanship and attention to detail that KBE is known for.”
Phase one construction is underway, with completion anticipated by May 2026. Future phases will include the construction of commercial office space and recreational amenities.
Demolition of the existing Regal Cinemas Theater
(l-r): Mike Kolakowski of KBE, Michael Lech of READCO, and Bill Crowe of Rogin Nassau LLC
Instead of the traditional groundbreaking, a ribbon cutting ceremony and demolition display marked the symbolic start of construction on the project.
Rendering courtesy of Allies Architecture, Inc. and READCO, LLC
MassBio Partnership Announced to Enhance Sustainability in Life Sciences Industry
Boston – Veolia North America has announced an expanded partnership with MassBio. The multi-year contract extension is designed to allow the parties to continue providing sophisticated, safe and reliable waste management services to members along with digital energy efficiency management.
For over 20 years, Veolia North America has served as MassBio’s primary
“As part of our GreenUp strategy, we aim to help our customers meet their business goals and ambitions to make the planet a better place for future generations.”
– Bob Cappadona, president and CEO of Veolia North America
partner for meeting the waste management needs of its members. Veolia and MassBio are now expanding the scope of the contract to accelerate efforts to make the biotech industry more environmentally sustainable.
As part of the agreement, Veolia will
Founded
MassBio member companies meet and exceed these requirements by promoting energy efficiency solutions.
“MassBio is thrilled to take this important step toward ensuring the long-term future success of our member companies and the groundbreaking work they are doing on behalf of patients around the world,” said Jason Cordeiro, chief operating and innovation officer for MassBio. “Veolia North America has proven year after year that they are a committed and trusted partner to MassBio by offering best-in-class resources to our 1,700+ members at all stages of the biopharma life cycle.”
provide MassBio members with solutions and recommendations to decarbonize buildings where MassBio members conduct research. The cities of Boston and Cambridge require property owners to reduce the carbon output of their buildings, and Veolia’s expertise will help
“As the world’s leading environmental services company, Veolia is proud to support MassBio and the important work being done by their member companies to revolutionize healthcare and the sciences,” said Bob Cappadona, president and CEO of Veolia North America’s Environmental Solutions and Services business. “As part of our GreenUp strategy, we aim to help our customers meet their business goals and ambitions to make the planet a better place for future generations. That’s a passion that we share with MassBio, which is why this partnership has been such a success for over 20 years now.”
Photos: Ryan Bent Photography |
Focus: Landscape and Civil
Stanmar Advances Construction on Worcester Academy’s Capozzoli Athletic Center
Worcester, MA – Stanmar, Inc. announced it is advancing construction on Worcester Academy’s Capozzoli Athletic Center. The 72,000sf facility, located at 121 Providence St. in Worcester, is on track to be completed this fall.
Worcester Academy’s athletic campus is located two blocks south of the school’s main campus. One goal of the project was to strengthen the relationship between the two campuses. “This facility rejuvenated, and made safer, the student pathways between their fields, the athletic facility, and the main campus. The facility itself is a careful blend of beautiful design and architecture with functionality and program,” said Oliver Snider, president of Stanmar. “Worcester Academy has been dreaming of this project for decades. We are proud to have led planning and design discussions with all facets of Worcester Academy’s constituency to build optimism, consensus and fundraising to make building the athletic facility a reality.”
“ This facility rejuvenated, and made safer, the student pathways between their fields, the athletic facility, and the main campus. The facility itself is a careful blend of beautiful design and architecture with functionality and program.”
– Oliver Snider, president of Stanmar
The exterior of the Capozzoli Athletic Center will consist of a brick, limestone look precast and metal panel facade. The structure of the building consists of a slab on grade, structural steel and CMU, precast planks and glulam wood roofing.
The Apelian Family Oval, located directly in front of the main building entrance, consists of green space
overlooking a copper beech tree and Providence Street. The McCabe Natatorium includes a 6-lane swimming pool, an office for coaches/lifeguards, and spectator seating. The gymnasium, Blackburn Court, includes three basketball courts and two volleyball courts. It features electric powered telescoping bleachers, three Daktronics
scoreboards and two scorers’ tables, and an AV system which includes an Assisted Listening System.
The athletic center also includes a main lobby with offices, a 1,000sf training room, a community room, and locker rooms. The second floor includes the Dee Rowe Pavilion, a stamped concrete patio with tiered seating overlooking the turf field. Also located on the second floor are the Sadowsky Family Lounge for alumni and parents, the 6,000sf Tribble Fitness Center, and a 1,500sf team room. The 80,000sf parking lot includes 145 parking spots and 11 EV dual charging stations.
“The design of the new building incorporates the historic and traditional brick style of many of the buildings on Worcester Academy’s campus, and will stretch the extent of the campus to make new spaces for the students, faculty and alumni to enjoy for years to come. While the building is designed to be nestled into the hill, it is not small, and will be a
Capozzoli Athletic Center / Renderings courtesy of DiMella Shaffer
“
The design of the new building incorporates the historic and traditional brick style of many
of the buildings on Worcester Academy’s campus, and will stretch the extent of the campus to make new spaces for the students, faculty and alumni to enjoy for years to come.”
grand statement as you approach, whether on foot or by car,” said Jen Cronan, senior project manager at Stanmar. “We are so proud of what this building will be able to bring to the academy – more practices, better locker rooms, more space for fitness, daylit rooms for classes and team meetings, and a larger pool – all things that will improve the lives and the experience for students, faculty, coaches, and alumni at Worcester Academy.”
“Worcester Academy has a long history of instilling academic excellence, athletic development and personal growth in its students, reflected in its motto, Achieve the Honorable. The new Capozzoli Athletic Center provides a significant upgrade to the campus’ athletic facilities, increases the center of gravity of the athletics campus, and presents a new face of the institution to the city of Worcester,” said Kenneth Hartfiel, AIA, associate principal at Dimella Shaffer.
Additional project team members include: Allen & Major Civil Engineering Design
Carriglio Construction Corporation Masonry Contractor
Haley & Aldrich Environmental and Geotechnical Engineering
McCabe Natatorium / Rendering courtesy of DiMella Shaffer
Blackburn Court / Rendering courtesy of DiMella Shaffer
Capozzoli Athletic Center / Photo by Ethan Pellegrino
– Jen Cronan, senior project manager at Stanmar
The Alder: A Model for Mixed-Use, Resilient Design at Allston Yards
By James Heroux
The Alder is the first building to rise from the Allston Yards Master Plan – a transformative, 1.3 million sq. ft. redevelopment initiative approved in 2019. As the gateway to this new neighborhood, The Alder sets a bold precedent for urban connectivity, sustainability, and vibrant public life.
Copley Wolff has played a central role in this vision since 2016, collaborating early with Stantec on master planning and later with Elkus Manfredi Architects to shape the landscape and public realm design. This long-term, interdisciplinary partnership reflects a shared commitment to high-performance placemaking and resilient urban design.
Located near the MBTA Boston Landing commuter rail station, Allston Yards aims to reknit the neighborhood by extending Guest and Braintree Streets. This new street grid strengthens access to transit and opens the site with walkable blocks, active edges, and a
strong connection to the surrounding community.
A significant feature of the project’s public benefit package is the new Community Green: a 1-acre, publicly accessible open space actively programmed with music, food, art, and entertainment. Maintained by the developer, the space fosters inclusive community-building and creates a vibrant anchor for the emerging district.
The Alder itself is a mixed-use building that layers neighborhood retail, a
full-service grocery store, and four floors of residential living into a cohesive urban hub. The second-floor grocer includes free shopper parking – an uncommon convenience in this transit-connected environment – while the ground floor focuses on activating the street with local retail businesses.
The building’s streetscape and open space design, led by Copley Wolff, emphasizes Boston’s Complete Streets principles. Generous sidewalks; a raised cycle track; generous furnishing zones with benches, bike racks, and lush plantings; and pedestrian-scale lighting enhance comfort, accessibility, and safety. The landscape design prioritizes both ecological performance and public
life, seamlessly tying into the adjacent Community Green.
The open space includes standout features: a 5,000sf dog run, pétanque courts, ping pong tables, and a large passive lawn. These amenities support flexible, year-round use and encourage
informal gathering, active recreation, and neighborhood identity.
At the residential level, The Alder includes a 4,500sf third-floor outdoor amenity deck that extends the living environment. Outfitted with grill stations, a fire table, a pergola, an entertainment wall, and an outdoor fireplace, the space offers multiple zones for socializing and relaxing. It connects directly to a 2,000sf indoor amenity lounge, unified by a dramatic fountain wall. Surrounding this deck is an 8,550sf extensive green roof that supports stormwater management, reduces the heat gain effect, and reflects the project’s larger sustainability goals.
As the first phase of the Allston Yards redevelopment, The Alder demonstrates what’s possible when thoughtful urban design, resilient landscape strategies, and collaborative development come together. With its layered public realm and amenity-rich program, it provides a blueprint for future phases – and for cities seeking more inclusive, livable, and climate-conscious growth.
James Heroux, ASLA, PLA is principal at Copley Wolff Design Group.
The Alder / Photos by Anthony Crisafulli
Allen & Major Announces Massachusetts Multi-Family Projects
Woburn, MA – Allen & Major Associates, Inc. (A&M) announced it provided services for three Alexan communities from Trammell Crow Residential (TCR), located in Chelmsford, Peabody, and Waltham.
The first to open its doors is Alexan Chelmsford, located on the former UMass Lowell West campus. The parcel was rezoned to the UMass West Multi-Family Housing Overlay District. The project features 340 units in a mix of three 3-4 story buildings, and 10 townhomes in two buildings. A mix of surface and garage parking will accommodate 544 parking spaces and provide EV charging stations. A&M has provided civil engineering, permitting, and construction support services for this project which includes stormwater mitigation using underground and bio-retention systems as well as a private wastewater treatment facility, which was a focus of the design. Permitting was extensive and included multiple meetings with the Select Board, Planning Board, Finance Committee, Conservation Commission, and abutters.
A&M provided full site design, local and state permitting, and construction services as well as landscape architectural design for Alexan in Peabody, also expected to open in 2025. Permitting for this privately situated 180-unit Class A multi-family development included
Comprehensive Permit, Notice of Intent, and local and state environmental permitting. Alexan Peabody will offer amenities including grill islands and an eating area, a hammock area, an outdoor TV lounge area featuring a ping pong table, and a drink bar. Other recreation areas include a pool area with cabanas, and a bocce court with a viewing area to cheer on the competitors. The A&M landscape team’s design was based on
active/passive uses and views from the interior spaces and unit patios.
The third project is Alexan Waltham, a 210-unit multi-family development with associated surface and garage parking. A&M’s scope of work includes civil engineering, amending approved permit plans, design of site access drives, drainage improvements, utilities, and stormwater management. Construction support services are ongoing.
Alexan Chelmsford / Renderings courtesy of TCR
Alexan Peabody
Alexan Waltham
Photos by Robert Benson Photography
VHB Supports South Norwalk’s Growth with Transit-Oriented Development
Norwalk, CT – VHB announced it recently teamed up with the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency and the City of Norwalk to support transit-oriented development (TOD) around the South Norwalk Railroad Station through a neighborhood TOD study, community engagement, and grant support services.
Building on the agency’s preexisting TOD redevelopment and the city’s rezoning of the South Norwalk area, VHB prepared a targeted TOD plan for Norwalk that informs land use and the build-out potential of public property and station area infrastructure needs and
identifies near- and long-term strategies to encourage neighborhood investment. The community-driven plan is designed to preserve Norwalk’s historic and cultural roots, expand the district as a walkable community, maintain and expand affordable housing, promote the use of green infrastructure and environmentally sustainable practices, and further connect the community to the station. Now that the study and planning process are complete, VHB is providing roadway, streetscape, and plaza design services to progress the recommendations of the TOD plan.
VHB has also supported the Norwalk
Redevelopment Agency in securing grant funding to support the implementation of this TOD effort, including supporting successful applications for a Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) Communities Challenge grant. The DECD grant and other federal funding have collectively brought in $20 million to fund additional infrastructure design and complete streets improvements in the South Norwalk neighborhood to improve resident and commuter experience around the train station. VHB analyzed safety benefits, air quality improvements and greenhouse
gas emissions reductions, amenity benefits including active transportation infrastructure, and travel time savings to prepare a cost-benefit analysis for the grants.
As an outgrowth of the South Norwalk Station Area Plan, VHB is currently preparing a Community Development Plan that emphasizes a series of community-centered development strategies and quality of life improvements focused on smart cities, digital equity planning, affordable homeownership opportunities, and community health and safety.
The westbound entrance to the South Norwalk train station, which connects the New Haven Line’s Danbury Branch to the Northeast Corridor.
A train rides over the Monroe Street Railroad Bridge in Norwalk, Conn.
Weston & Sampson Awarded by ACEC for Arlington DPW Facility
Reading, MA – Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc. has earned a National Recognition Award for exemplary engineering achievement in the American Council of Engineering Companies’ (ACEC) 58th annual Engineering Excellence Awards (EEA). The award comes for leading the renovation of the Department of Public Works (DPW) facility in Arlington.
Also receiving recognition are The Green Engineer, Inc.; Tortora Consulting; Preservation Technology Associates,
LLC; and Code Red Consultants.
The $40.7 million project transformed the aging, inefficient site into a modern, sustainable hub designed to serve the town’s operational and community needs for decades to come. Facing challenges such as flooding, environmental contamination, and an outdated layout, the DPW facility had hindered Arlington’s ability to provide vital public services.
The project team delivered a highperformance solution combining state-ofthe-art engineering with the preservation
of the site’s historical character. Key improvements include a 43,000sf operation building, a 6,000sf salt shed, and enhanced yard layout to optimize functionality.
The project is eligible for additional honors as part of 194 entries this year representing engineering excellence from throughout the nation and the world. Judging for the awards program took place in February and was conducted by a national 32-member panel of built environment leaders, along with experts
from government, the media, and academia. Award criteria focused on originality, technical innovation, social and economic value, and generating excitement for the engineering profession.
Recognition of all award winners –including 16 Honor Awards, eight Grand Awards, and the “Grand Conceptor Award” for the year’s most outstanding overall engineering achievement—will take place at the EEA Gala, to be held at the Grand Hyatt, Washington, D.C., on May 20.
Department of Public Works facility in Arlington, Mass.
Department of Public Works facility in Arlington, Mass.
Resiliency in Action: How Civil Engineers Are Designing for a Changing Climate
By Stephen Garvin
As a civil engineer, I’ve seen how the work we do—site and infrastructure planning, stormwater management, materials selection—can shape and aid how communities respond to climate change. Today, resiliency isn’t a buzzword—it’s a mandate. With more powerful storms, rising flood risks, and evolving regulations, civil engineers are at the forefront of designing infrastructure that adapts to a changing world.
At Samiotes Consultants, we aim to integrate resilient design into every project we touch. That might mean preserving sensitive ecosystems, minimizing a site’s carbon footprint, or capturing and reusing water. It’s about making intentional decisions that support long-term performance, sustainability, and public safety within the context of the project’s overall goals.
One recent example is our work at TriCounty Regional Vocational High School
in Franklin, Mass. The site is surrounded by wetlands resource areas, so our design focused on preservation. We avoided impacts by incorporating protective buffers, while including a below-grade salamander crossing to support migration. To promote awareness, students created custom signage about protecting natural resources—a reminder that resiliency also starts with education.
At Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School, we designed underground detention and infiltration systems using steel arch pipes—a deliberate choice balancing strength, sustainability, and long-term value. Steel resists environmental stressors better than plastic, reduces maintenance, and supports the client’s goal to replace plastic with
SAMIOTES
conscientious alternatives. Being fully recyclable, it’s also an environmentally responsible option.
We applied a different strategy at Franklin Elementary School in Newton, where we proposed porous paving to manage stormwater. Instead of channeling runoff to storm drains, porous pavement lets water soak into the ground— recharging groundwater, filtering pollutants, and reducing flooding. It also lowers surface temperatures, helping to mitigate urban heat island effects.
At the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS), we helped design a stormwater reuse system for the new raised courtyard built on a weight-limited historic MBTA slab. To avoid heavy soil or expensive geofoam, we proposed the interstitial space for water storage—resulting in a 150,000-gallon system that supplies nonpotable water for irrigation and cooling.
Since it went online, HKS hasn’t needed to draw municipal water for those uses— an example of how engineering can solve structural challenges while advancing sustainability.
These projects reflect our belief that resiliency must be woven into every aspect of the design process. Whether it’s a school campus, civic center, or urban courtyard, we work with clients to develop solutions that protect the environment and deliver long-term value.
Civil engineers have a crucial role to play in climate resilience. It’s not just about technical performance—it’s about being responsible stewards of the land, water, and systems we help imagine and construct. Resiliency is no longer optional. It’s the standard, and it’s our responsibility to lead the way in a purposeful manner.
Stephen Garvin, PE is principal at Samiotes Consultants, Inc.
Winning signage design by students at Tri-County Regional Vocational High School
Alternative material selection for the stormwater management system at BPRVTHS
BL Companies Receives Grand Award from ACEC CT for Harbor Brook Project
Meriden, CT – BL Companies has been honored with the 2025 Grand Award by the Connecticut chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) for its work on the Harbor Brook Channel Improvements Project in Meriden.
The recognition celebrates engineering excellence and acknowledges the project’s outstanding contributions to flood mitigation, environmental sustainability and community revitalization. BL Companies received the Grand Award, as well as a Connecticut Engineering Excellence Award, during a ceremony at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville on Jan. 28.
The Harbor Brook project was
designed to address chronic flooding along a 1-mile stretch of the brook, reducing the floodplain footprint, protecting vulnerable neighborhoods, and enhancing public access to natural space through the integration of a new multi-use trail.
“This recognition highlights the critical role engineering plays in building stronger, safer and more resilient communities,” said Derek Kohl, vice president of operations at BL Companies. “We are proud to collaborate with the City of Meriden and our project partners to deliver a solution that not only resolved a long-standing public safety issue but also restored natural habitat, improved quality of life and created new recreational opportunities.”
The Harbor Brook Channel Improvements Project combined flood mitigation infrastructure with environmental restoration and community accessibility enhancements. The project involved widening and deepening the channel, constructing new floodplain storage areas, replacing aging infrastructure and introducing a 3,500-foot multi-use trail. These efforts addressed flood risk, improved emergency response capabilities and created new public access to the brook.
Construction was completed ahead of schedule and under budget. Other project team members included Richards Corporation and Seifert Associates, LLC.
blcompanies.com
The Harbor Brook Channel Improvement project, completed in January 2024.
(l-r): Senior environmental inspector James T. Ruitto and Senior Project Managers Matthew Stark and Steve Fraysier received the Grand Award on behalf of BL Companies.
Mid-construction aerial view of Harbor Brook, including stream bank stabilization, stream habitat boulders, multi-use trail, and flood storage/wetland restoration area
Part of the Harbor Brook project included the replacement of a sewer bridge.
Creating a Greener, More Resilient Future for West Hartford
By Syed Ahmed
In the heart of West Hartford, Conn., a transformation is taking root—one that goes far beyond new pavement and revitalized streetscapes. M&J Engineering is incorporating cuttingedge, environmentally friendly soil cell technology into the redevelopment of LaSalle Road and Farmington Avenue.
As part of the town’s commitment to creating a more sustainable and livable urban environment, M&J is implementing DeepRoot Green Infrastructure’s Silva Cells. These are underground frameworks designed to foster healthy tree root growth and manage stormwater runoff beneath the concrete. The reinforced cell structures create uncompacted soil zones that support large, thriving tree root systems, even under the stress of traffic and heavy urban infrastructure. M&J is managing construction inspection, while Gerber Construction is performing the installation and construction.
“We see soil cells as more than just a technical solution,” said Vlad Kaminsky, construction manager at M&J. “They represent a shift in how we engineer public spaces—integrating nature with infrastructure and investing in the health of communities.”
The initiative couldn’t come at a
due
to over-compacted soil and insufficient root space. These conditions have led to abnormal growth, infrastructure damage,
and high maintenance costs. Rather than repeatedly treating the symptoms, M&J is addressing the root of the problem— literally.
By overseeing the planting of new trees in soil cells, M&J is giving West Hartford’s streets a greener, more resilient future. Trees supported by this technology grow stronger, live longer, and provide measurable environmental benefits—from improving air quality and cooling city streets, to reducing flooding through enhanced stormwater management and enhancing mental wellbeing through nature preservation.
And while the initial installation is more labor-intensive and costly, the long-term gains are undeniable. Healthier trees mean fewer replacements, lower maintenance costs, and a higher return in both environmental value and community pride.
By embracing technologies like DeepRoot’s Silva Cell system, M&J is demonstrating that civil engineering can—and should—serve the environment just as much as the built environment. M&J’s work in West Hartford is more than a redevelopment project— It’s a vision for how cities and towns can harmonize infrastructure with ecology. As more municipalities look to modernize their public spaces, this project proves that with the right engineering mindset, progress doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense.
Syed Ahmed is corporate communications coordinator at M&J Engineering.
Image courtesy of DeepRoot Green Infrastructure
more critical time. The mature trees currently lining LaSalle Road and Farmington Avenue are struggling
ACEC/MA 2025 Engineering Excellence Award Winners Announced
Boston – The American Council of Engineering Companies of Massachusetts (ACEC/MA) recently announced the recipients of the 2025 Engineering Excellence Awards along with several other awards at the ACEC/MA Engineering Excellence and Awards Gala.
Emcees Luciana Burdi, director, Capital Programs and Environmental Affairs at Massachusetts Port Authority, and Linda Bauer Darr, president and CEO of ACEC, presented the awards in a ceremony at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel in Boston. The Cold Brook Restoration Project in Harwich was awarded top honors. GRAND CONCEPTOR
The Cold Brook Ecological Restoration Project transforms 66 acres of former cranberry bogs into nitrogen-attenuating wetlands, achieving goals in wastewater treatment, coastal climate resilience, habitat restoration, and recreation. By restoring natural hydrology and creating diverse habitats, the project addresses Cape Cod’s critical water quality issues. The design uses natural materials and ecological principles to reduce nitrogen levels, offering a scalable model for other coastal communities. The project includes advanced engineering that supports longterm environmental health and resilience, potentially saving millions in future wastewater treatment costs.
The Sumner Tunnel Reconstruction project in Boston presented many challenges that required innovative design, construction strategies, and planning. The project team found and developed solutions that increased the tunnel’s design life, improved the preexisting ventilation system, minimized changes to the tunnel operations, and did not require replacing the hung ceiling throughout the entire tunnel length, thereby reducing overhead hazards, future maintenance, and inspection
costs. Specific innovations included using precast elements that allowed accelerated construction, better quality control and durability, and increased tunnel strength and fire resistance.
Lyrik, Air Rights Parcel 12
The Lyrik, Air Rights Parcel 12 project is the first successful air rights project
to take shape over the Massachusetts Turnpike in 40 years. Haley & Aldrich’s client, Samuels & Associates, shaped the concept for this 1.77-acre parcel, a mixed-use development designed to unite neighborhoods, attract top-tier commercial clients, and incorporate sustainable design features. As the project’s primary geotechnical and environmental consultant, the Haley & Aldrich team overcame site constraints by designing the deep foundation system and the instrumentation and monitoring system.
The SHED
The SHED at RIT merges technology, art, and design into one vibrant space. As a central hub for hands-on learning, the 203,000sf facility houses maker spaces, studios, and theaters. Its double-skin facade and tension wire sunshades are designed to set new standards for energy efficiency and structural ingenuity.
The SHED is designed to reflect RIT’s forward-thinking vision, positioning engineering as a visible and integral part of the design.
The East 54th Street Bridge is a pivotal element of the East Midtown Greenway project in New York City. The structure, located on the city’s waterfront, was built off-site and transported by barge. It links to a new linear greenway, designed to provide a distinctive experience for pedestrians and cyclists. The bridge’s inclined arches, railings, and ramp piers are designed to complement its architectural design. It features fully accessible approach curved ramps, including S-shaped geometries to minimize local park impacts.
Cold Brook Restoration
GOLD AWARD
Sumner Tunnel Reconstruction
Cold Brook Ecological Restoration Project
Sumner Tunnel Reconstruction
The SHED at RIT
East Midtown Greenway Pedestrian Bridge
Lyrik, Air Rights Parcel 12
East Midtown Greenway Pedestrian Bridge
Focus: Advanced Technology/AI
Illuminating the Future: How AI and Advanced Technology are Rewiring the Electrical Trade
By Steven Drouin
The buzz around artificial intelligence is no longer confined to the digital realm; it’s electrifying the entire construction industry. At Interstate Electrical
adding tangible value at every stage. A prime example is Rivet, an integration platform that has dramatically enhanced Interstate’s labor planning. Gone are the days of sitting around a conference table with whiteboards and manually calculating the labor force, while relying heavily on historical knowledge. Technology such as this one provides a real-time, bird’s-eye view of the workforce while calculating prior trends automatically. Advances in technology enable Interstate to pinpoint where resources are needed and predict future talent requirements
Another area experiencing a significant AI-driven transformation is the engineering and design/build phases. For example, the adoption of the Trimble X9 Scanner has revolutionized 3D scanning. This cutting-edge technology can now automatically capture a complete building model on-site in mere moments, a stark contrast to the 24-48 hours required with previous methods that involved stitching multiple scans. This rapid and comprehensive 3D data forms the foundation for Building Information Modeling (BIM). By creating a complete digital twin of the project, Interstate can meticulously coordinate with all other trades before any physical construction begins.
This 3D model serves as the blueprint for prefabrication, a process streamlined by ManufactOn, a SaaS platform that manages prefabrication and material handling. Acting as a central nervous system, platforms like this one provide real-time transparency into the status of every component, from detailing to scheduling, to shipping and receiving. The field team can schedule, coordinate, monitor progress and plan deliveries, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow across multiple concurrent projects.
Artificial intelligence is also being increasingly incorporated into virtual design and construction (VDC) to enhance project outcomes, accuracy, and efficiency. Construction processes can be streamlined and overall project performance improved by AI-powered solutions that can automate tasks, optimize designs, predict risks, detect clashes, and analyze project data within the VDC workflow. Construction
processes are streamlined, and outcomes are more accurate as a result of this intelligent automation.
Beyond industry-specific software, readily available AI tools also have valuable applications in construction. Microsoft Co-Pilot, an AI-powered assistant, can automatically transcribe and summarize project meetings, assign action items, and even aid in tasks like documentation, proofreading, contract review, and generating complex Excel analytics and much more.
From intelligent labor planning to advanced 3D modeling and streamlined prefabrication, artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept but a tangible force driving progress in the electrical trade. For Interstate, adopting these innovative tools goes beyond maintaining a competitive edge; it’s about fostering a future defined by heightened efficiency, accuracy, and an unwavering commitment to safety within the construction industry. Steven Drouin is the senior vice president of technology at Interstate Electrical Services.
A design-build specialist uses scans along with BIM and VDC technology to track field conditions in remote locations. This provides the VDC team with access to real world job conditions.
A Trimble associate scans a structure with the Trimble X9 to help with MEP coordination.
Form and Function: How Technology is Shaping Architectural Precast Concrete
Technology is revolutionizing the design potential of precast concrete custom form liners and architectural finishes—opening new creative pathways for both building and landscape architects. Once used for basic structural applications, today’s precast can serve as a sculptural, sitesensitive medium that complements and enhances the surrounding environment.
Custom form liners, developed through digital modeling and CNC routing, allow designers to imprint almost any pattern or texture into precast concrete. Whether integrating thin brick and stone facades, intricate geometric patterns, or even abstract artwork, form liners provide a flexible and durable way to translate artistic intent into built form. These details are not merely decorative—they become integral to the architectural identity of a project.
This capability can be particularly meaningful in landscape architecture, where built elements must respond to their natural surroundings. Elements made from precast can feature custom
Little Island At Pier 55 – New York, N.Y.
textures that reflect the geological features, plant forms, or cultural motifs of a region. Technology enables the precise reproduction of these designs across multiple panels, ensuring consistency and reducing installation time in the field.
Advancing 3-D modeling technology enables precise visualization and coordination, making it easier to design and manufacture custom complex precast concrete forms. This digital workflow streamlines production, reduces errors, and ensures that even the most intricate architectural shapes are delivered with high accuracy and efficiency.
As demand grows for sustainable, resilient, and visually compelling structures, precast concrete offers a uniquely powerful solution. It enables creative collaboration between disciplines, allowing architectural elements to blend seamlessly with the landscape or stand out
as striking features, all while delivering durability and efficiency. Technology doesn’t just improve how precast concrete is fabricated — it can transform how it shapes our built and natural environments.
PCI Northeast precast concrete
producers have the power to turn any architectural vision into reality. Backed by advanced technology, skilled craftsmanship, and deep expertise, they bring even the most intricate design details to life — with precision, beauty, and durability. With precast concrete, designers gain true creative freedom.
Suffolk University Classroom, 20 Somerset Street Campus, Boston
HCID Parking Structure, Lowell, Mass.
Suffolk University Classroom, 20 Somerset Street Campus, Boston
Suffolk Hosts Climate Tech Forum to Accelerate Sustainable Construction Innovation
Boston – Suffolk announced it recently hosted the Suffolk Climate Tech Forum at its Boston headquarters.
The event was co-hosted by Suffolk’s Sustainability Group and Suffolk Technologies, the venture capital affiliate of Suffolk that invests in earlystage built world startups, to convene industry leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, contractors, designers and public officials and tackle the urgent climate challenges facing construction. The forum focused on overcoming adoption barriers and accelerating climate technology implementation, including innovative materials, industrial decarbonization, renewable energy and data-driven sustainability tools.
“The construction industry is at a critical juncture in addressing climate change, with nearly 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions attributable to the construction and operation of buildings,” said Steven Burke, senior director of sustainability at Suffolk. “Our Climate Tech Forum represents our commitment to not only implementing sustainable solutions on our own projects but sharing knowledge and creating frameworks that can help transform the entire industry.”
17
Suffolk’s Climate Tech Forum gathered industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, contractors, designers and public officials to discuss the climate-related challenges facing construction.
March SP February 14 WIC: Women in Construction Supplement
consumer glass into concrete additives, and Tangible’s AI-powered tools that streamline building lifecycle assessments to optimize material choices for more sustainable designs.
March February 20 Schools & Institutions
The forum focused on three key areas:
April March 21 Multi-Residential; Senior/Assisted Living
circularity, industrial decarbonization and software solutions. The event featured startup pitches, real-world case studies, and interactive breakout sessions. Innovative climate tech solutions highlighted included Sublime Systems’ low-carbon cement alternatives, Pozzotive’s process for converting post-
“Driving meaningful climate action in the construction industry requires innovation and collaboration with
multiple stakeholders throughout the entire ecosystem,” said Nick Dhimitri, executive vice president at Suffolk. “By joining together thought leaders, changemakers and influencers at our Climate Tech Forum, we are imagining a more sustainable future and building a clearer roadmap to turn that vision into reality.”
April SP March 21 MEP: Mechanical, Electrical, & Plumbing Supplement
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High-Profile Focus: Advanced Technology/AI
SMACNA Holds 2025 Fab Forum, Highlighting Advanced Fabrication Technology
Hingham, MA – Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ Association’s (SMACNA) 2025 Fab Forum was held on April 7-9, offering an in-depth look at the future of union HVAC sheetmetal fabrication. The two-day event, hosted in part by McCusker-Gill, Inc., brought together industry leaders and political figures to spotlight best-in-class innovation in union shop practices, workforce development, and advanced fabrication technology.
Held at McCusker-Gill’s fabrication facilities in Hingham, the forum provided an opportunity for attendees to tour 10 hands-on stations demonstrating HVAC prefabrication and digital design. Attendees also participated in breakout sessions on pressing topics in the industry and toured Sheet Metal Workers Local 17’s Joint Apprenticeship Training Center (JATC).
event featured remarks from key Massachusetts officials, including Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones and Commissioner of the Division of Occupational Licensure Sarah Wilkinson. Both leaders underscored the critical role union labor plays in shaping the future of the skilled trades and Commonwealth. Also in attendance were Massachusetts State Senator Patrick O’Connor, SMACNA National President Tom Martin, McCusker-Gill CEO Kevin Gill and President Kevin Gill Jr.
“Bringing together like-minded individuals committed to advancing our
industry created an excellent platform to showcase the advancements we’ve made at our shop over the past several years. The 10 stations were designed to highlight our fully digital workflow, with a particular emphasis on our off-site prefab work to enhance the efficiency and delivery of each project,” said Kevin Gill Jr.
The tour included:
• Virtal Design Construction (VDC): Demonstrated how McCusker-Gill uses BIM and value engineering to reduce material use and labor hours, ensuring projects stay on track.
• STRATUS and Power BI: A look into cloud-based fabrication management systems that connect shop and field staff in real time, eliminating inefficiencies and maximizing communication.
• Logistics Software: Showcased an app-based system that streamlines delivery and tool tracking, increasing accountability and reducing dependence on outdated spreadsheet tracking.
• Spiral Department: Detailed the prefabrication of spiral duct sections, precisely cut and labeled to accelerate field installation and improve organization through STRATUS containers.
Organizations and Events
Organizations and Events
• Prefabrication Facility: Highlighted the safety, quality, and profitability gains from off-site prefab, including mobile cart systems and STRATUS inventory management.
• Caswell Fire-Resistant Ductwork: Provided a construction overview of Caswell’s fire-rated duct systems, which withstand moisture and extreme climates without the need for vulnerable spray coatings.
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.
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.
Carolyn Kurth, 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 awards committee.
Carolyn Kurth, 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 awards committee.
her recipient
Kim Colapietro, partner of EDI Landscape, LLC, returns for her third year on the board. She serves as the awards committee chair.
“With union labor and advanced fabrication methods at its core, the Fab Forum hosted by McCusker-Gill Inc. served as a compelling demonstration of the value that union contractors bring to the construction industry. Their cuttingedge technology sends a clear message: Union HVAC is strong, forward-looking, and essential to the industry’s future,” said Thomas S. Gunning, executive director of SMACNA Boston.
Kim Colapietro, partner of EDI Landscape, LLC, returns for her third year on the board. She serves as the awards committee chair.
Kyma Ganzer, project manager at
Kyma Ganzer, project manager at
on Companies, year.
board on Companies, year.
PWC CT board (l-r): Choity Khan, Kyma Ganzer, and Jennifer
LaRosa her recipient Rising mentorship Robinson board
committee
PWC CT board (l-r): Choity Khan, Kyma Ganzer, and Jennifer
LaRosa
Rising mentorship Robinson
committee
The
The Rise of AI Search in AEC Knowledge Management
By Richard Friedman
What if you had an internal search engine that could access and retrieve all your firm’s knowledge – project data, technical specs, lessons learned – instantly and in context? Thanks to AI-powered tools, that future is already here. Across the AEC industry, artificial intelligence is reshaping how firms locate and leverage institutional knowledge.
The Institutional Knowledge Challenge
AEC firms run on experience, but that knowledge is often scattered across disconnected systems with inconsistent naming and little context. Traditional keyword-based search tools struggle to surface what matters, leading to inefficiencies, missed insights and lost opportunities.
AI-powered search offers a better path. By embedding tools into internal platforms, firms can make relevant data more accessible and actionable, whether
it lives in a document archive, proposal folder, or meeting transcript.
Purpose-Built for AEC
One example is Synthesis AI Search from Knowledge Architecture (KA). Originally a SharePoint-based intranet, Synthesis has evolved into an AI-enhanced platform now in public beta.
KA founder, Christopher Parsons, says they rebuilt the platform from the ground up once they realized traditional search was falling short. “We’re moving from keyword search to a natural language search, so people can ask the question they really want to ask. This requires that AI understand the intent of the question and fill in what might be missing,” he shares.
Synthesis uses retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), an AI method that pulls live data from internal sources and feeds it into a language model to generate grounded summaries – without hallucinating or editorializing. It even includes an AEC-specific video transcription model that distinguishes industry terminology – like knowing “Revit” isn’t “rabbit.”
Unlocking Knowledge at Shepley Bulfinch
For Shepley Bulfinch, a Boston-based 180-person architecture firm, AI-
enhanced search has transformed its internal platform, “Finch,” into a powerful knowledge retrieval engine. Jim Martin, vice president and CIO, says the firm had over 400 videos- town halls, firmwide updates, training sessions – many of which were previously inaccessible because they lacked transcripts. With AI Search, all this content is now searchable and linked to exact moments within the videos.
“It has been a game changer,” Martin says. “Now we can surface relevant information that might otherwise remain buried. People are rediscovering valuable insights they didn’t know existed.”
What if you had an internal search engine that could access and retrieve all your firm’s knowledge – project data, technical specs, lessons learned – instantly and in context? Thanks to AI-powered tools, that future is already here.
Still, Martin emphasizes the importance of human oversight. “A major challenge is ensuring that the information remains accurate and current,” he says. “Older intranet entries may no longer reflect best practices, yet AI will still retrieve them. That’s why we’re exploring content governance strategies – to prioritize verified, current content while still allowing access to historical context.”
Firmwide Value – from Marketing to Innovation
AI search also helps marketing teams work faster and smarter. Hillary Thompson, director of brand communications at MBH Architects, says it once took hours to gather content for RFQs and RFIs. Now, her team can instantly find and reuse content from past projects.
“We’ve expanded AI search to help generate blog ideas, social media captions, and content summaries, ensuring that our messaging aligns with our expertise,” says Thompson.
Corey Squire, sustainability director at BORA Architecture and Interiors, sees AI search as a catalyst for better performance and innovation. “Certain questions get asked again and again,” he says. “Now, everything is documented and searchable. That allows people to find the answers themselves, and lets me focus on more innovative things.”
Preserving Legacy, Empowering Learning
AI-powered tools aren’t just about speed – they’re about preserving and activating a firm’s intellectual capital. KA’s Parsons recalls a senior engineer who documented decades of insights. After the engineer’s unexpected passing, AI-enhanced search allows colleagues to continue learning from him – a living legacy.
This is how firms that invest in purpose-built AI are shifting from storing data to activating it – improving collaboration, decision-making and resilience in a competitive market.
Richard Friedman is founder and president of Friedman & Partners.
Construction Safety Week
F.W. Madigan Company Drives Success in its ‘All in Together’ Approach
by Marybeth Madigan
As Construction Safety Week 2025 approaches, F.W. Madigan Company continues to build on the success of last year’s Safety Week initiative, “Every Voice Matters,” with the AGC’s 2025 theme, “All in Together.” Observing National Construction Safety Week has become an annual practice at Madigan, as the firm has aimed to incorporate each year’s initiative into its ever-developing safety programs.
The Worcester-based construction firm transformed traditional safety programs last year by emphasizing inclusive leadership and personal ownership across all levels of the organization. After a full year of implementation, this approach has not only reduced jobsite incidents, but has created a more engaged workforce.
Madigan’s safety director, Brendan Madigan, reflected on this past year’s safety goals and saw real progress. “We’ve discovered that when every team member feels empowered to speak up, contribute ideas, and take personal ownership, our safety outcomes improve dramatically.” This philosophy correlates with the “All in Together” initiative of 2025, driving home the idea that as a team, we can make our job sites, our employees, and our personal well-being SAFER TOGETHER.
Madigan’s comprehensive safety philosophy focuses on three key initiatives: a Personal Ownership Program that establishes clear expectations and individual leadership; Multiple
Communication Channels ensuring everyone has a comfortable way to contribute safety insights; and specialized Active Listening Training for leadership teams.
The results over the past year have been impressive. One innovation from the 2024 program—placing team members’ preferred names on helmets—created natural conversation starters that broke down barriers between workers. This simple change has fostered stronger interpersonal bonds and more comfortable safety conversations throughout projects.
“Sometimes the most effective safety improvements come from unexpected sources,” notes Madigan. “Since implementing our program last year, we’ve encouraged less experienced team members to question established procedures, leading to safer, more efficient approaches that veterans might have overlooked due to the outdated ‘we’ve always done it this way’ thinking.”
As Construction Safety Week 2025 approaches with industry-wide events focused on building a stronger safety culture, Madigan continues to demonstrate that safety excellence comes not just from robust procedures, but from creating environments where every team member feels their voice matters. After all, we’re all in this together.
Marybeth Madigan is marketing administrator at F.W. Madigan Company, Inc.
Safety supervision in action: Madigan’s commitment to protected worksites
Elevating safety standards: Madigan crews working with precision at every height
Shine a light on safety: Adjusting lights today prevents accidents tomorrow.
Beyond Hard Hats: Interstate’s Proactive Approach To Jobsite Safety
by Luiza Mills
Interstate Electrical Services Corporation prioritizes jobsite safety through a proactive and comprehensive approach that begins well before any personnel arrive at the jobsite. Our safety and project strategy is deeply rooted in four key pillars: prioritization of safety and well-being, extensive training programs, the implementation of lean construction methodologies, and the strategic use of prefabrication. By focusing on these critical areas and integrating technology with AI for sophisticated early detection of potential risks, Interstate aims to create safer work environments, reduce potential hazards, and ultimately ensure the wellbeing of our team.
Integral to our project strategy are lean construction principles. By ensuring proper safety knowledge and training, optimizing workflows, eliminating waste, and improving efficiency, we create a more organized and less cluttered work
environment. This not only enhances productivity but also significantly contributes to safety by reducing potential tripping hazards, improving access, and
fostering better communication and coordination among team members. Our focus on pre-planning and process optimization allows us to anticipate and address potential safety concerns proactively.
Prefabrication also plays a crucial role in our safety-first approach. By completing a portion of our work at our UL-certified prefabrication Operations Center, we can implement stringent quality controls and embed safety features directly into the fabrication process. Controlled environments offer many advantages, such as consistent temperatures, optimized layouts, and readily available tools and equipment. This allows our teams to complete their work in a safe and ergonomic manner, minimizing exposure to weather-related hazards, and other common jobsite risks.
Our prefabrication excellence offers benefits beyond our Operations Center. Delivering components Just-In-Time (JIT) minimizes on-site storage, allowing Interstate to have a smaller footprint on a project, reducing congestion, and creating clearer work areas. This improved housekeeping enhances ergonomics; reduces slips, trips, and falls; ensures materials are readily available when needed; streamlines installation; and minimizes material handling hazards.
Interstate’s proactive approach to jobsite safety – emphasizing comprehensive training, prioritization of safety, lean construction practices, strategic prefabrication, and the integration of technologies like AI for advanced risk detection – demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the well-being of our
employees and the successful delivery of materials safely to the jobsite. By focusing on safety from the initial planning stages through to final installation, we strive to create work environments where every individual can prioritize well-being, operate with confidence, and return home safely each day.
Luiza Mills is senior vice president at Interstate Electrical Services.
Training classes at Interstate help equip employees with the knowledge, skills, and awareness necessary to identify and mitigate risks effectively.
An Interstate team member fitted up on site with PPE
Multi-Residential
Topping Off Ceremony Held for Poet Hill Residences in Worcester
Worcester, MA – Callahan Construction Managers announced it recently held a topping-off ceremony for the Poet Hill Residences in Worcester to celebrate the completion of the structural framework of the building.
The Poet Hill Residences is a 210-unit, market-rate housing development owned by SMC Management Corporation in the Poet Hill neighborhood of Worcester. Located on a 5-acre site on Hemans Street, the project features five stories of residential living over a double-podium parking garage.
Representatives of Callahan say it has contended with a challenging sitework package due to the natural slope of the property. Working in partnership with architect Maugel Destefano, the team made the site work to its advantage by incorporating a residential courtyard on top of the parking deck that is level with Hemans Street.
Representatives add that Poet Hill Residences’ location on top of a hill in one of the most climate-intensive cites in Massachusetts has made reaching this milestone even more significant. From pouring concrete slabs, erecting steel and wood framing to installing siding and windows, Callahan continues to progress ahead of schedule despite the challenges posed by an active winter season. Work
inside the buildings has continued unabated, allowing the MEP trades to stay active and for city inspections to proceed.
“Thanks to a strong partnership with city leaders and SMC, we’ve been able to
forge ahead and reach today’s important milestone, bringing us one step closer to unveiling an exciting multi-family development in Worcester,” said Stephen Callahan Jr., vice president – business
development for Callahan. “Our experience building both numerous multi-family communities and all across Worcester County prepared us for this unique project, and we’re excited to see it come to life.”
Construction Complete on Affordable Housing, Mixed-Use Development in Dorchester
Dorchester, MA – Bald Hill Builders announced the completion of Four Corners Plaza, an affordable housing and mixed-use development located in Dorchester’s commercial district. In partnership with Codman
Square Neighborhood Development Corporation, the City of Boston, and DHK Architects, the project delivers 35 new affordable housing units, including 32 apartments in a main building and three townhomes, alongside commercial Four Corners Plaza
space. Designed with sustainability at the forefront, Four Corners Plaza is LEED Gold Certified.
“This project represents years of thoughtful planning and collaboration,” said Brenda Laurenza, president
at Bald Hill Builders. “We’re honored to contribute to a development that strengthens the community by providing quality housing and supporting local economic growth.”
Poet Hill Residences / Rendering courtesy of Maugel DeStefano Architects
Jewett Construction Underway on Best Ford Service Center in Nashua
Nashua, NH – Jewett Construction announced the mobilization for a new design-build, ground-up construction project for Best Ford in Nashua.
Located at 579 Amherst Street, the 24,965sf facility will be a Ford Pro Elite Commercial Service Center, dedicated to providing fleet vehicle maintenance and service for commercial customers. The Ford Pro Elite program is designed to offer specialized care for commercial vehicles, emphasizing efficiency, reliability, and expert service.
“We are excited to partner with Best Ford to bring this advanced facility to Nashua,” said Greg Stewart, president of Jewett Construction. “We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, design-build
solutions that meet the evolving needs of businesses. This innovative Ford Pro Elite Commercial Service Center will provide exceptional service to commercial vehicle owners in the Nashua area.”
“This new center will allow us to better serve fleet customers with advanced service technology and dedicated commercial support,” said John Crowley, president of Best Ford. “We’re looking forward to bringing both superior service and job opportunities to the Nashua community.”
The Best Ford project is the latest in a series of automotive projects that Jewett Construction has completed across New England. The project is underway, with completion anticipated in December.
Maugel DeStefano Architects Nears Completion of Bluestar Business Park
Norton, MA – Maugel DeStefano Architects announced it is nearing the completion of the final phase of Bluestar Business Park in Norton.
Developed by Condyne Capital Partners and built by Polar Design Build, the industrial mixed-use development will span seven buildings and 815,000sf across 190 acres, accommodating a range of industrial, flex, and ancillary retail spaces. The project is comprised of modern high bay fulfillment centers serving today’s E-Commerce market.
“Condyne Capital Partners and Polar Design Build have been outstanding partners, fully embracing our expertise and innovative approach to help bring their vision to life for what will be one of the largest newly created industrial parks in New England,” said Mike Kunz, owner and principal of Maugel DeStefano Architects. “This development has been
carefully designed to accommodate the evolving needs of modern industrial users, with flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability at the forefront. We are excited to see this project come to fruition and look forward to delivering a dynamic, high-performance space that will serve businesses for years to come.”
The project, which began in 2018, was initially designed to include 11 buildings totaling 887,315sf. The revised plan, now focused on seven buildings, maintains a strong emphasis on adaptable space planning, allowing tenants to configure areas based on their operational needs. Each building is designed to support various industrial and distribution uses, with high-bay ceilings, flexible divisions of space, and modern building access points.
Phase I of the development has been completed, with base building and tenant
fit-outs designed by Maugel DeStefano Architects for tenants such as Wayfair, Pitney Bowes, and Yale Appliance. Phase II is currently underway and is expected to reach completion by the end of 2026.
This phase will introduce additional warehouse, distribution, and flex spaces designed to meet the region’s growing demand for high-quality industrial facilities.
Rendering of Ford Pro Elite Commercial Service Center in Nashua, N.H.
Pitney Bowes
Yale Appliance
Bluestar Business Park
Organizations and Events
Building a Legacy:
PWC-CT Celebrates 20 Years of Empowering Women in Construction
Submitted by the Professional Women in Construction Connecticut Chapter
Marking Two Decades of Progress, Advocacy, and Opportunity
For the past two decades, the Professional Women in Construction Connecticut Chapter (PWC-CT) has been at the forefront of change – championing the advancement of women in construction, engineering, architecture, and related industries. What started as a vision to create more opportunities for women in a traditionally male-dominated field has grown into a thriving organization that has transformed careers, empowered professionals, and reshaped the industry’s landscape in Connecticut and beyond.
A Legacy of Support and Mentorship
Since its founding in 2004, PWC-CT has created a dynamic platform where professionals at all stages of their careers can connect, learn, and grow. Through networking events, professional development programs, mentorship
initiatives, and industry collaborations, the organization has fostered an environment where women can thrive.
One of PWC-CT’s most impactful contributions has been its scholarship program, which has awarded an astounding $639,000 to 217 students pursuing careers in construction-related fields. These scholarships have not only provided financial relief but have also paved the way for internships, mentorships, and career-launching opportunities that continue to shape the industry’s future.
Beyond financial support, PWC-CT has served as a catalyst for change, advocating for greater representation of women in leadership roles, bridging the gender gap in construction, and fostering an inclusive workforce that benefits businesses and communities alike.
Celebrating Milestones at the Wings of Legacy Gala
To commemorate this remarkable journey, PWC-CT will host its 20th Anniversary Gala, Wings of Legacy, on June 5 at The New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, Conn. More than just a celebration, the event will serve as a reflection on the organization’s achievements, the evolution of women’s roles in construction, and the bright future ahead.
Attendees will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders, celebrate the impact of PWC-CT, and support the continued growth of women in the field. The event will also highlight key initiatives that will propel the organization forward, ensuring that the next generation of women continues to break barriers and achieve success.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter While the past 20 years have been filled
with milestones and achievements, PWC-CT remains focused on the future. With a continued commitment to education, advocacy, and mentorship, the organization aims to expand its reach, create new opportunities, and inspire more women to build rewarding careers in construction.
Dawn Meeker, president of PWCCT, says, “We are excited to celebrate this significant milestone and continue our mission of empowering women in construction. This anniversary is not just about looking back – it’s about paving the way forward.”
As PWC-CT embarks on its next chapter, its mission remains clear: to uplift, support, and empower women in construction for generations to come.
For more information about the 20th Anniversary Gala, scholarship opportunities, or how to get involved with PWC-CT, visit www.pwc-ct.org.
PWC 2024 scholarship recipients
PWC 2024 board members
PWC 2025 Southern New England private school event
PWC 2025 award recipients
2025 PWC event
Mass. Plumbers and Contractors Meet with Gov. Healey for Plumbing Industry Day
Boston – Plumbers, contractors and industry leaders met with Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey and top lawmakers to support policies to improve water conservation and safety and protect good-paying jobs in the trades at the annual Plumbing Industry Day.
Members of Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 12; the Greater Boston Plumbing Contractors Association (Greater Boston PCA); the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors of Massachusetts; several Massachusetts regional plumbing and plumbing inspector associations; and other industry advocates met with lawmakers at the State House to discuss several pieces of pending and potential legislation, including:
• A bill to increase the safe and efficient reuse of greywater – wastewater from sinks, showers and laundry that can be treated and repurposed to conserve water;
• Removing lead from water sources at schools;
• Removing “forever chemicals” – known as PFAs – from contaminating drinking water, soil and consumer products;
• Requiring licenses for drain cleaners;
• A balanced energy policy that includes a diverse mix of sources to ensure reliability, affordability, and stable workforce while gradually reducing dependence on natural gas;
• Using Artificial Intelligence and technological advances to support, rather than replace, workers.
“Greywater is the future of water preservation,” said Jim Vaughan, business manager for Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 12. “Every building should have a greywater system. Residential, new builds, every house should have a gray water system. Think of the relief on the aqueducts, the wells, the public water supply if water was collected and just used for flushing toilets and irrigation.”
“It was a great day and an honor to be joined by Governor Healey as well as many other elected officials and policymakers to discuss the issues most
important to our industry, including water conservation, water safety, a responsible energy transition and strict licensing standards,” said Andrew DeAngelo, executive director of the Greater Boston Plumbing Contractors Association. “Responsible energy policy and robust economic strategy help build our communities and ensure that good businesses that support working families thrive across eastern Massachusetts.”
Several lawmakers, as well as the governor, stopped by to meet with the plumbing groups, while plumbers, inspectors, contractors and other industry professionals went door-to-door to advocate for a variety of issues with lawmakers.
TFMoran Welcomes Three
Bedford, NH – TFMoran announced it welcome Aiden Schlotman as a civil project engineer in its Bedford office, Olivia Boyer as an environmental permitting specialist in the Portsmouth office, and Oliver Sheridan as a CADD technician in the Portsmouth office.
Schlotman graduated from The University of New Hampshire with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering. His coursework included soil science, surveying, and solid waste management. His previous experience includes civil engineering, site design, permitting, wetland construction, sewage disposal construction, and stormwater construction.
Boyer graduated Cum Laude from Plymouth State University with a Bachelor of Science in environmental biology. She has also recently completed the Wetlands Certificate program at the University of New Hampshire and is currently pursuing her GIS certificate. Her experience includes structural and environmental assessments of stream crossings, in coordination with state agencies to enhance flood resilience and wildlife
passage, as well as environmental monitoring, water quality monitoring, ArcGIS, aquatic habitat restoration, and native wildlife research.
Sheridan graduated from Plymouth State University with a Bachelor of Science in business management and is LSIT certified in land surveying. His background includes experience with AutoCAD, specifically in civil engineering, land surveying and environmental services, and proficiencies in geothermal and energy efficient technology.
Suffolk Welcomes McKee, Promotes Lucey
Boston – Suffolk announced it hired Evan McKee as the new chief operating officer for the company’s Dallas/Fort Worth team, and promoted Patrick Lucey to general manager of the Northeast region.
McKee has more than 25 years of experience in the construction industry and joins Suffolk with expertise and client relationships in the healthcare and higher education markets, as well as the life sciences, adaptive reuse, occupied renovation and general commercial sectors. Suffolk is currently managing the renovations at the University of Texas at Dallas Research Operations Center, which includes interior renovation of existing labs and classroom spaces into one battery research lab, as well as the DFW Terminal C Renovation project.
McKee will focus on expanding Suffolk’s portfolio across commercial, higher education, institutional and healthcare projects. Before joining the firm, he served as vice president at The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company.
Since beginning his career at Suffolk as a project engineer in 2005, Lucey has
held almost every role on a project team. Most recently, he served as executive vice president for Suffolk, managing a $2 billion portfolio of work and helping to launch Suffolk Design, Suffolk’s in-house team of design and engineering experts. His experience includes leveraging proven processes and sophisticated technologies – including virtual modeling, Lean construction methodologies, robotics, AI and data – to contribute to the success of Suffolk projects. In his role as general manager of the Northeast region, Lucey will be responsible for overseeing the national company’s largest operation, employee base and project portfolio.
Bowdoin Announces Promotion, New Hire
Needham Heights, MA – Bowdoin Construction announced the promotion of Mike Kelly to the role of project manager. The company also announced that it recently hired Sinead Kelly as an assistant project manager.
Mike Kelly joined Bowdoin as an assistant project manager in October 2022. Representatives of the firm say he has shown strong leadership capabilities as part of the project team on a number of high-profile projects across all of its market sectors, and that he is an effective communicator and problem-solver with a keen sense of client service.
“Mike is a valuable asset to project teams,” said Scott Harris, director of construction at Bowdoin. “His attention to detail and commitment to getting the job done serve our clients well, and we are pleased to recognize and reward his contributions.”
Sinead Kelly is a graduate of Curry College and has six years of construction industry experience. In her role, she assists in construction document coordination, works closely with project managers to expedite submittals and shop drawings, and provides close-out documentation to owners upon project completion.
“We are pleased to have Sinead on the Bowdoin team and look forward to seeing her further develop her project management skillset,” said Harris.
Landry/French Announces Promotions
Scarborough, ME – Landry/French Construction announced the promotions of Matt Gagnon, Anna Schab, and Tyler Humphrey.
Gagnon has been promoted to project executive. With 25 years of experience in commercial construction, including 12 at Landry/French, he will provide overall team leadership, oversee day-to-day operations, and ensure an exceptional client experience. Gagnon served as senior project manager on the new 200,000sf medical office building at the Rock Row Health Campus in Westbrook. His other work includes the Casco Bay Ferry Terminal renovations in Portland, Avesta Porter Station in Portland, and several historic renovation projects across Maine. He holds a Bachelor of Science in construction management technology from the University of Maine and is a LEED Accredited Professional.
Schab has been promoted to project manager. With nearly a decade of industry experience and a background in healthcare construction, she served as assistant project manager on the new medical of-
fice building at Rock Row. She holds a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Humphrey has been promoted to assistant superintendent. In addition to his role on the medical office building project at Rock Row, he has worked on Phase II of Hobson’s Landing in Portland. He earned a Bachelor of Science in construction engineering technology from the University of Maine.
Halliwell Joins Weston & Sampson
Foxborough, MA – Weston & Sampson announced that David Halliwell has joined the firm as a senior project manager. He has over 25 years of experience specializing in permitting utility-related projects under local, state, and federal regulations, including the Department of Public Utilities and
Energy Facility Siting Board. Halliwell’s focus will be on providing responsive and effective siting, licensing, and permitting support to Weston & Sampson’s energy clients in the Northeast. He earned his BS in environmental management from the University of Rhode Island. Halliwell
Sheridan
Boyer
Schlotman
Sinead Kelly
Mike Kelly
Humphrey Schab
Gagnon
Lucey
McKee
Next Issue
Healthcare Facilities
JUNE
Share your projects, insights, and news, or highlight your company’s impact on the future of healthcare design and construction in High-Profile’s annual Healthcare issue.
Reach key decision-makers in this sector by advertising in our June edition!
Article Submissions and Ad Reservations are due MAY 22
Editorial submissions are shared on HP’s daily newsfeed, weekly e-newsletter FastFacts Friday, as well as the High-Profile Monthly print and digital edition. Selected submissions are also posted to HP’s Facebook page, Twitter, and LinkedIn. To submit content, email editor@high-profile.com. For advertising queries, email ads@high-profile.com.
PWC CT
May 6 at 5:00 PM
Calendar
Future-Proofing Healthcare on a Budget: Energy Reduction, Tech Modernization, and Community Commitment
Members and non-members are invited to come to this annual healthcare panel to learn how capital projects leaders navigate the ever-changing healthcare landscape. Attendees will hear how healthcare networks are implementing energy reduction strategies, technologydriven modernization, and funding solutions - all while balancing competing priorities, budget constraints, and maintaining the facility’s connection to its community. Registration to the event includes networking and dinner.
NAWIC
May 7-9
Northeast Region Spring Forum
This three-day event includes an agenda of speakers, breakout sessions, and networking. Attendees are encouraged to stay locally in Plymouth Harbor, Mass. “Power in the Room” is this year’s theme.
Construction Institute
May 8 at 3:00 PM
Swing Into Spring
AEC professionals are invited to join colleagues for some relaxed networking and golf. Registration to this event includes nine holes of golf and networking opportunities. It will be held at the Hartford Golf Club in West Hartford, Conn.
BOMA Boston
May 8 at 5:30 PM
Springfest
Registration to this event includes hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and networking. Attendees can expect close to 300 commercial real estate professionals at this year’s event.
WWIRE
May 14 at 4:30 PM
Networking Night at Five Iron
AEC professionals are encourage to join WWIRE Boston for a co-ed FIT event at Five Iron. Ticket to the event includes golf, networking, appetizers and refreshments.
NAIOP Boston
May 15 at 5:30 PM
Spring Social
This gathering is an opportunity to step away from the daily grind and engage with fellow industry professionals. Attendees will have a chance to expand their professional network, explore new collaborations, or simply chat with peers. It will be held at TimeOut Market in Boston.
AGC MA
May 21 at 4:00 PM
Casual Conversations with Powerful Women In Construction
BWiC invites attendees to connect, collaborate, and learn at the upcoming installment of this series. Learn from prominent women leaders in the commercial construction industry as they share their journeys—both intentional and unexpected. Hear about their heroes and hurdles; the opportunities they’ve seized, missed, and reimagined; and the activities that consume far too much of their time. The event includes refreshments and networking.
To have your calendar event listed, email editor@high-profile.com.
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