“Our roster grows as more remarkable women achieve excellence and prominence in the industry,” said Lenore Janis, president of Professional Women in Construction (PWC), introducing the honorees at PWC’s annual Salute to Women of Achievement luncheon held October 15 at Club 101 in New York City. Connie DeLaigle, Port Authority of NY & NJ (PANYNJ), was the event chair.

Janis paid tribute to the presidents of two of PWC’s chapters, Carolyn Kurth, CPA, CFE, senior manager at CohnReznick, president of PWC-CT and “one of the founders of the first PWC chapter”; and Carolyn Pugaczewski, CIC, CRIS, president of M. Adams & Associates, president of PWC-NJ who “injected life, energy and vigor” into the chapter.

Pugaczewski said, “We made a commitment to become a force in the New Jersey construction industry and we are well on our way.” Kurth said, “In 2005 we had a vision” and thanked Janis for “her dream and her team” that led the way.

Honoree Zaria Demarchi, LEED AP BD + C, senior airport engineer, PANYNJ, expressed her desire to “see more women in construction,” her hope for “future generations” and her gratitude to her mentors. Presenter Ed Gould, mgr. airport facility projects, PANYNJ called Demarchi a “superb individual” who “excelled” immediately, “understands our mission” and “has the ’right stuff.’”

Honoree Nicole Hunter, project manager, HNTB Corporation, said she is “humbled and proud of the journey,” thanked the “influencers and her network” and praised mentorship. Phil Collin, P.E., V.P., HNTB Corporation, commended her “focus, commitment and drive,” and called Hunter a “great role model” and an “active leader in the industry.”

Honoree Marianne Egri, V.P., NYC School Construction Authority (SCA) spoke of the more than 200,000 new student seats the SCA has created since its 1989 inception–when she joined - and thanked the agency for the “great career opportunities” and “the amazing work it has accomplished” for NYC. E. Bruce Barrett, R.A., V.P., NYC SCA called Egri integral to the SCA and commended the goals she set and fulfilled including on-time payment.

Honoree Sylvia J. Smith, FAIA, LEED AP, senior partner, FXFOWLE Architects thanked her “community of collaborators who share values of making the world a better place.” Ann Rolland, AIA, LEED AP, principal, FXFOWLE Architects said that Smith is “a champion and an activist” and “an ambassador for the design world.”

Honoree Stephanie Cesario, LEED AP BD + C, project executive at Hunter Roberts Construction Group (HRCG) said “we have not only changed individual communities but positively impacted the landscape of New York City.” Joan Gerner, executive V.P., HRCG called Cesario “a leader in this industry” who has “set her standards high.”

Honoree Michelle Bernstein, project manager, Alexander Wolf & Son and the recent founder of Miter Construction Corporation, said “We are changing the landscape of the construction industry and establishing a more equal footing for women.” She expects to “see more fearless female leaders in the construction world” and noted that “women bring a unique perspective to construction.” Peter Bernstein, director of operations, Alexander Wolf & Son, said that his sister is the first female family member to join the company founded in 1905 by their great grandfather.

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