Sponsor Spotlight | JRM Construction Management

Why did you become involved in PWC NJ?

Being in the Construction Industry for 20+ years I found my role evolving more in the new Jersey side, I thought it would be great to continue to build my network and work with other colleges in the New Jersey/ AEC space and I thought PWC NJ was a great avenue to do so.

What is your favorite part about being a member of PWC NJ?

The engagement with other women in the industry and meeting other colleagues. You know as a woman in construction it’s not always a traditional job. PWC NJ gives me the opportunity to connect with other people my level and even mentoring others that are new to the industry.

What is the biggest challenge to working in the construction industry? 

I’ve been in the construction industry for over 23 years and it has always been a non-traditional place for women to work but the biggest challenge that I’ve faced to date is always being able to develop a voice and having my voice be recognized in the room, mostly amongst men. Additionally, being able to build my own rapport in the industry as a woman has been a work in progress over the years.

What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment to date?

My greatest accomplishment to date has been learning that I can mentor and pave the way for other women in the industry, because I didn’t have that when I started in this industry over 20+ years ago. And being able to help other women feel like they have a sounding board and someone who went through similarities with what they went through has ultimately been extremely rewarding for me.

Who has been the most influential person in your career?

I cannot put my hand to one person, I’ve been very fortunate that there have been several mentors throughout my career. Quite frankly most of them started out as men trying to give me guidance and advice on how to separate myself as a game changer in the industry.

What is your favorite project that you have worked on in your career?

There have been so many, but the one that comes to mind is working on the World Trade Center right after 9/11 terrorist attacks. As a born and bred New Yorker, witnessing what happened and being a part of one of the many companies that were part of rebuilding it has to be one of the most momentous projects of my career.

Why/when did you decide to pursue a career in construction? 

I started working in my family Business, Caruso Painting and Decorating Corp, while I went to school and I happen to take a liking to it and here I am 20 years later.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

The best piece of advice I have ever received Is never stop learning, and its always good to have multiple mentors.

What advice would you give to someone looking to become involved in the construction industry?

Put the time in the earlier part of your career, while it may seem like a lot at the time, it will certainly be rewarding for the future.

What changes to the construction industry have you seen over the span of your career?

In one word I would say technology. The advancing of projects through the innovation of technology has been the biggest change to the construction industry that I’ve seen over the span of my career.