2022 Women in Construction: Allison Desbonnet, Landscape Designer at Copley Wolff Design Group

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? I’m most excited to be managing a project in Revere which is currently in the works. Nestled between the beach and the marshlands, the building will be set back along the streetscape, allowing the opportunity to make a grand gesture in the public realm, which we’ll accomplish with interactive art elements. My energy for this project stems from a childhood lived on the coast, and weaving the reuse of oceanic material into design details.

Starting out in the construction business, who or what empowered you? My first female peers in the industry were no doubt a force to be reckoned with. We built our empowerment off of one another - and whether it went unspoken or flew off the tongue, understanding that the challenges we faced were collective created a platform for unified strength.

When you’re not busy, what is your go to book or podcast to help you unwind? Short story anthologies are my media peacemakers when I need a screen break. Mary Oliver’s ‘Upstream’ is getting worn in quickly, and I can’t help but feel more like she’s a lost sister of mine with every page turn.

Within your firm, who has helped you succeed within the industry? How have they helped you? The principals I primarily work with are graciously giving me their tools for the trade. We dig deep into topics together whenever my curiosity is peaking, even on their busiest of days. This kind of patience coupled with a genuine effort to support and teach will contribute to my success indefinitely.

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? Build trust in yourself and stay true to your values in the face of systemic beliefs.