2025 Women in Construction: Amy Johnson, Fuss & O’Neill

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community? I am especially proud of my role, as owner’s representative, in the development of RIPTA’s first electric bus charging station and driver rest stop. RIPTA provides public transportation to 40,000+ commuters daily. Replacing diesel buses with electric buses requires in-line charging stations, for which Fuss & O’Neill transformed a once blighted site to be the first charging station. We provided a comprehensive range of services including environmental due diligence, remedial planning, conceptual site plan development, stormwater management, electrical engineering, and construction oversight.

Who or what has inspired you most in your career, and what advice would you share with the next generation of women entering the A/E/C industry? I was fortunate to have Tom Ballestero as my professor in undergrad and as my advisor during grad school. His stormwater management course, along with my work at the UNH Stormwater Center, was pivotal in shaping my career. This is where I found my opportunity to make a positive difference in my community. The principles I learned about green infrastructure then continue to influence my work today. To the next generation of women, I encourage you to embrace your unique voice and perspective with confidence. Don’t feel pressured to mimic others – your individuality will make us all better.

What’s your favorite way to recharge or get inspired outside of work? I recharge through hands-on creative outlets like macrame, knitting, and embroidery.

Do you have a hidden talent or a surprising fact about yourself that most people wouldn’t know? When I didn’t land a summer internship, I had the opportunity to be Sasha Obama’s camp counselor.