2024 Women in CRE: Nicole Dua, AHA Consulting Engineers

What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of? My recent work in decarbonization and the development of sustainable benchmarking for commercial buildings is among my most impactful accomplishments to date. Specifically, my last project was to track greenhouse gas emissions and ensure compliance for over five hundred properties under the Boston Housing Authority (BHA). With nearly eight million s/f of housing and community spaces to review, I collaborated closely with key BHA stakeholders to dive deep into tracking energy usage and analyze how buildings operate on a case-by-case basis. While verifying compliance for each building with Boston’s complex Energy Reporting Disclosure Ordinance (reporting procedures, reduction commitments, data tracking), I was also able to provide key insights that helped guide toward a net zero emissions future. Tackling such a large-scale and diverse project was certainly challenging at moments, but the opportunity to ensure sustainability for an important force like the BHA was incredibly fulfilling.

What is your vision for the future of women in commercial real estate? While the future of women in commercial real estate is currently very promising, I imagine a movement that has even greater inclusion and innovation at the leadership level. With more diverse representation leading projects and being involved in the decision-making process, I think we can hope to see fresh ideas that fundamentally change how our industry operates, and how it interacts with adjacent fields. Besides just evolving the future of women within commercial real estate, I hope that commercial real estate can become an example for other industries to emulate due its diversity of perspectives and ideas!

Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight?
“It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Nicole Dua for her exceptional work in sustainability at AHA Consulting Engineers. Nicole has been instrumental in helping commercial real estate clients achieve their energy and emissions compliance targets. Leveraging her MBA in sustainability, she brings a deep understanding of environmental best practices, coupled with a strategic mindset that drives impactful results. Nicole’s professionalism and positive attitude make her a pleasure to work with, consistently delivering solutions that meet both regulatory requirements and client expectations. Her commitment to sustainability and client success is a great asset to both our company and the commercial real estate clients we serve.” - Dan Whittet, Senior Associate – Energy & Sustainability at AHA Consulting Engineers.