2023 Women in CRE: Chelsea Siefert, Quonset Development Corp.

What recent project or accomplishment are you most proud of? At the Quonset Business Park, our unique site readiness program provides pre-permitted sites that guarantee new tenants can begin construction within 90 days of signing a lease. In 2021, I was incredibly proud to launch Rhode Island Ready, a program that replicates Quonset’s successful site readiness model statewide, activating vacant industrial sites across R.I. I am currently working with property owners and state and local government to prepare 32 sites for new business activity that will create jobs, attract private investment, and generate tax revenue for Rhode Island. 

Why should this nominee be recognized in our WCRE Spotlight? “As the newly promoted COO of Quonset Development Corp., Chelsea has demonstrated skillful leadership in a field largely dominated by men. She has delivered tangible results to expand pre-permitting and generate economic development at formerly empty industrial sites across Rhode Island, and in her work to expand Quonset’s hugely successful flex industrial campus. She believes deeply in Quonset’s mission to foster a successful home base for R.I. companies offering good paying jobs and creating meaningful development opportunities.” - Steven King, P.E., Managing Director at Quonset Development Corp.

What are the most important factors women in your industry should consider when choosing a firm to build their career with? Find a place where your voice is heard and respected, where you are empowered to lead. From my work to expand our site readiness program, to develop a flex campus to fill a void in commerce real estate, to oversee the massive expansion at the Port of Davisville, QDC’s leadership has always trusted my judgement. 

Who inspires you most? What qualities do they possess that inspire you? I find myself in the enviable position of being surrounded by truly exemplary women who are doing amazing things. My sister, my friends and my colleagues inspire me every day, the way they lead with tenacity, heart, and courage, some of them raising children, all while maintaining their sense of self and integrity.