Building Better Futures

Managing large-scale healthcare infrastructure requires strategic planning, adaptability and a keen understanding of evolving technology.

Oscar Gonzalez, CCM and Senior Assistant Vice President of Capital Development with New York City Health and Hospitals, discusses managing a vast portfolio of over 400 capital projects, the role of flexibility in healthcare infrastructure and the impact of technology on patient care.

Key Takeaways:

(05:09) 400+ capital projects demand tight coordination and planning.

(07:33) Flexibility is essential — healthcare must pivot to handle crises.

(10:14) Architects and engineers drive smarter healthcare design.

(14:07) AI and robotics are transforming surgery and data management.

(19:40) OTXHU provides long-term acute care for incarcerated patients.

(23:32) Infrastructure upgrades — cath labs and more — are critical.

(26:09) Proud to have shaped NYC — bridges, tunnels and public spaces.

(28:07) Success comes from persistence and adaptability.

(32:56) H&H is expanding — more projects, resources and industry collaboration ahead.

Resources Mentioned:

Da Vinci Surgical System -

https://www.intuitive.com/en-us/patients/da-vinci-robotic-surgery/about-the-systems

NYC Health + Hospitals -

https://www.nychealthandhospitals.org/

FEMA Disaster Recovery Program -

https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/national-preparedness/frameworks/recovery

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#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

For this episode, we’re joined by Priya Jain, President, Americas Mace Consult of Mace. Priya discusses delivering complex projects, fostering collaboration and creating lasting community impact. She shares insights on Mace's approach to project delivery, the role of technology in construction and how upskilling the supply chain drives innovation. From the London Olympics to projects in Peru, Priya highlights how infrastructure can leave a legacy.



Key Takeaways:

(01:31) Gratitude drives team innovation.

(06:00) Collaboration ensures efficient delivery.

(12:09) Prefabrication cuts costs and boosts safety.

(19:41) One-team culture fosters transparency.

(22:28) The Hudson Tunnel will transform communities.

(27:44) Upskilling supply chains drives innovation.

(32:29) Partnering with small businesses builds inclusivity.

(36:18) Curiosity leads to professional growth.

Resources Mentioned:

Priya Jain -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/priyaj/

Mace | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mace-group/

Mace | Website -

http://www.macegroup.com

BIM Technology -

https://www.accruent.com/resources/blog-posts/what-building-information-modeling#:~:text=BIM%20is%20an%20intelligent%2C%203D,design%2C%20construction%2C%20and%20management.

Mace graduate program -

https://careers.macegroup.com/gb/en/graduates

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#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

Leading an organization that shapes New York City’s future requires vision, dedication and a deep understanding of advocacy. 

Carlo Scissura, President and CEO at The New York Building Congress, shares his journey from law to leading a prominent organization advocating for infrastructure and public projects. Carlo highlights the role of networking, advocacy and investment in shaping New York City’s future. He discusses how his leadership transformed the Building Congress, emphasizing membership growth, diversity and a stronger presence in local and federal government.

Key Takeaways:

(03:51) Carlo’s Brooklyn upbringing instilled a lifelong passion for New York City.

(09:14) Advocacy connects local, state and federal governments to infrastructure needs.

(14:47) Investment in the MTA is vital for New York City’s continued growth.

(17:26) The Building Foundation supports education and talent development initiatives.

(18:54) Networking and active participation are key for young professionals in the industry.

(22:38) Do your job well, show initiative and follow up.

(24:32) Embrace opportunities, take risks and step out of your comfort zone.

(26:29) Join community boards to advocate for change.

Resources Mentioned:

Carlo Scissura -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlo-scissura-3183a68/

New York Building Congress | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-york-building-congress/

New York Building Congress | Website -

https://www.buildingcongress.com

SkinCheck -

https://www.skincheck.health/

“The Power Broker” by Robert A. Caro -

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/24312/the-power-broker-by-robert-a-caro/

Thanks for listening to the “Building Better Futures” podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

Palmina Whelan, Capital Program Director of The New Terminal One JFK and Founder of Palmina Whelan Strategic Solutions, shares her experience leading transformative aviation and construction projects. From managing JFK Terminal 8 to founding her boutique consultancy, Palmina’s career reflects resilience, innovation and a commitment to advancing representation and leadership in male-dominated industries.

(02:54) Shifting from computer science to construction due to a better personal fit.

(07:43) Significant growth in women’s representation in construction over the years.

(08:40) The evolution from operational efficiency to enhancing passenger experiences in aviation.

(14:28) Navigating impactful projects like JFK Terminal 8 amidst 9/11 challenges.

(20:21) Empowering oneself to feel confident in male-dominated industries.

(22:21) Networking to gain mentorship and diverse perspectives.

(25:15) Communicating effectively across generations in professional settings.

(27:40) Creating a boutique firm provides flexibility and control to shape meaningful work.

Palmina Whelan -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/palmina-whelan-ccm-fcmaa-mciob/

The New Terminal One JFK LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/jfk-terminal-one/

The New Terminal One at JFK | Website -

https://portauthoritybuilds.com/redevelopment/us/en/jfk/planned-projects/terminal-1.html

Palmina Whelan Strategic Solutions LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/pw-strategic-solutions/

Palmina Whelan Strategic Solutions | Website -

https://palminawhelan.com/

Bridgeworks -

https://www.generations.com/

Thanks for listening to the “Building Better Futures” podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

Richard Cote, CCM, Assoc. DBIA and Executive Vice President of Hudson Meridian Construction Group, joins us to talk about his journey from military service to leading impactful public and private sector projects. Richard dives into leadership strategies, disaster response and the role of technology in transforming construction management.

Key Takeaways:

(03:57) Integrity and punctuality, ingrained during military training, are central to Richard’s leadership.

(06:59) A “bullpen” mentality, inspired by military operation centers, promotes transparency, collaboration and mentorship for emerging professionals.

(08:06) Hurricane Sandy’s aftermath showcased the construction industry’s capacity for rapid disaster response.

(14:17) Alternative delivery methods like CM build and design-build improve project timelines and efficiency.

(18:53) Emerging technologies, including AI and drones, enhance project management and reduce labor demands.

(22:22) Public sector projects face unique challenges in adopting new technologies due to bureaucratic processes.

(25:49) Certifications such as CCM and DBIA offer valuable training and recognition for construction professionals.

(31:01) “Green Means Go” is Richard’s leadership mantra, empowering his team to act decisively.

Resources Mentioned:

Richard Cote -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-cote-ccm/

Hudson Meridian Construction Group | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/hudson-meridian-construction-group/

Hudson Meridian | Website -

https://www.hudsonmeridian.com

New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) -

https://edc.nyc/

Hudson River Park Trust -

https://hudsonriverpark.org/about-us/hudson-river-park-trust/

Procore -

https://www.procore.com/en-sg

Kahua -

https://www.kahua.com/

myComply -

https://mycomply.net/

SkillSignal -

https://www.skillsignal.com/

Betty Blocks -

https://www.bettyblocks.com/industries/engineering-and-construction

Thanks for listening to the “Building Better Futures” podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

For this episode, we’re joined by John Dionisio, Managing Director of Corporate Development at Global Infrastructure Solutions, Inc.

John shares his extensive experience in the infrastructure sector, discussing the evolution of public-private partnerships (P3) and the importance of simplicity in tech solutions for construction. He reflects on key challenges facing the industry and highlights how large-scale projects like LaGuardia Airport create lasting community impact. John also shares valuable advice for emerging leaders in construction technology.

(02:37) Exposure to engineering at a young age shaped John’s career path.

(09:09) The P3 model isn’t a fit for every project; selectivity matters.

(11:50) Sky-high material costs create unpredictability across global projects.

(14:18) Government and labor capacity shortages challenge infrastructure delivery.

(16:50) Simple tech solutions lead to faster adoption and effective workflows.

(20:11) Projects like LaGuardia Airport showcase infrastructure’s lasting impact.

(24:17) Building relationships within the industry is key for long-term success.

(27:53) The construction sector benefits from collaboration across competing firms.

John Dionisio -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-dionisio-0268074/

Global Infrastructure Solutions, Inc. | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegisi/

Global Infrastructure Solutions Inc. Website -

https://www.gisi.com

Upsmith -

https://www.upsmith.com/

NYCHA Modernization Program -

https://www.nyc.gov/site/nycha/about/comprehensive-modernization.page

Thanks for listening to the Building Better Futures podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

Arthur J. Alzamora, Jr., Principal/Vice President of Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, discusses his career path, NYC’s evolving engineering landscape and his approach to mentorship and impactful project management. Arthur provides insights into urban development, preservation and the essential role of technological advancements in geotechnical engineering.

Key Takeaways:

(02:44) From community college to leading Langan.

(06:12) Collaborative approaches transform NYC’s construction methods.

(08:16) Technology enables rapid, sophisticated geotechnical modeling.

(11:41) Iconic projects like One Vanderbilt drive personal and team growth.

(16:11) TSX Times Square project reflects innovation in preservation.

(19:56) Advice for emerging engineers: Say yes to opportunities early.

(24:07) Professionals should give back to educational institutions.

(27:20) Time management and balancing career and family.

Resources Mentioned:

Arthur J. Alzamora, Jr. -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/arthur-j-alzamora-jr-pe-f-asce-bc-ge-dbia-leed-ap-bb46413/

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) -

https://www.asce.org/

Langan Engineering and Environmental Services LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/langan-engineering-environmental-services/

Langan Engineering and Environmental Services | Website -

http://www.langan.com

Thanks for listening to the “Building Better Futures podcast.” If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

Join us as Michael Wallace, Senior Vice President of LiRo-Hill, shares his journey from engineering intern to seasoned leader in construction management. With 33 years at the Port Authority, Michael reflects on pivotal projects, the role of teamwork, and his approach to mentorship. His advice for future leaders is rooted in embracing responsibility, adaptability, and collaboration.

Key Takeaways:

(04:27) Practical, hands-on experience is irreplaceable.

(07:53) Ownership of projects builds lasting pride.

(09:09) Crisis unites teams and strengthens regional bonds.

(10:54) The legacy of leadership is empowering others.

(15:52) Loving your work leads to career fulfillment.

(17:11) Effective collaboration requires treating everyone equally.

(22:33) Adapting career paths opens new opportunities.

(27:26) P3 projects balance infrastructure needs and funding.

Resources Mentioned:

Michael Wallace -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-wallace-pe-leed-ap-env-sp-9b94b641/

LiRo-Hill -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-liro-group/

The LiRo Group | Website -

https://www.liro-hill.com/

Thanks for listening to the “Building Better Futures” podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

Brennan Gilbane Koch, Vice President and Director, Strategic Partnerships and Client Relations at Gilbane Building Company, joins us to talk about her role in leading business development at one of the nation’s largest family-owned construction and real estate firms. Brennan discusses the ways her team contributes to communities through affordable housing, local economic inclusion and large-scale development initiatives.

Key Takeaways:

(06:17) Building communities through diverse projects, from affordable housing to student housing.

(08:20) Local economic inclusion through projects like the COVID Center of Excellence.

(11:47) Affordable housing as a cornerstone of Gilbane’s development efforts in New York City.

(15:47) Supporting small businesses through Gilbane’s Rising Contractor Program.

(18:35) Gilbane’s core values: family, integrity and long-term relationships.

(22:59) The responsibility of preserving and passing down a family business across generations.

(26:09) Family legacy: Managing four generations and introducing the sixth generation at Gilbane.

(28:55) Brennan's leadership style and the impact of personal connections in building strong teams.

Resources Mentioned:

Brennan Gilbane Koch -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brennan-gilbane-koch-1bb6466a/

Gilbane Building Company | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/gilbane-building-company/

Gilbane Building Company | Website -

https://www.gilbaneco.com/building

The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell -

https://www.amazon.com/21-Irrefutable-Laws-Leadership-Anniversary/dp/0785288376

Thanks for listening to the “Building Better Futures” podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

Michael Sweeney, Executive Vice President/Eastern US President of HNTB, joins us to discuss his journey in the civil engineering field, the impact of major infrastructure projects and the unique employee-owned culture at HNTB. With over 37 years of experience, Michael shares insights into the challenges and successes of his career, along with advice for aspiring professionals.

Key Takeaways:

(03:58) Post-Superstorm Sandy, HNTB’s New York office rapidly expanded, doubling in size.

(06:22) HNTB’s culture emphasizes leadership values, employee ownership and team growth.

(11:16) Young professionals should say yes to opportunities and actively seek mentorship.

(14:17) Advice for women in transportation: be confident, proactive and don’t wait for perfection.

(16:52) Infrastructure upgrades like the Mario Cuomo and Kosciuszko Bridges enhance city life.

(21:40) The future of infrastructure involves climate resiliency and integrating digital innovations.

(24:22) The evolution of high-speed rail in the Northeast Corridor focuses on improving reliability.

(26:11) Digital Infrastructure Solutions: using technology like drones for bridge inspections.

(27:18) Tough career decisions revolve around trust, fairness and navigating complex challenges.

Resources Mentioned:

Michael Sweeney -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sweeney-38a74861/

HNTB | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/hntb/

HNTB | Website -

https://www.hntb.com/

WTS International | Website -

https://www.wtsinternational.org/

Thanks for listening to the Building Better Futures podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.

#PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast