2025 Women in CRE: Felicia Conboy, Shawmut Design and Construction

What has been the most rewarding project or deal you’ve worked on in your career, and why? One of the most rewarding projects I’ve been part of was at Boynton Yards, a state-of-the-art life sciences facility. I worked alongside a talented, collaborative team to meet tight deadlines and budget goals. Beyond the technical and logistical achievements, what made it truly meaningful was knowing the space enables groundbreaking research that contributes to life-saving medical innovation. Being part of a project with such tangible, positive impact was both inspiring and deeply rewarding.

What drew you to commercial real estate, and what keeps you passionate? I was drawn to this industry because I love the fast-paced, ever-changing environment. I’m not sitting at a desk all day – we’re building, problem-solving, and creating spaces people use. What keeps me passionate are the people I work with. Collaborating with talented teams, learning from them, and working together toward a shared goal is incredibly rewarding. Every project brings new challenges and opportunities, and that energy is what keeps me passionate.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in commercial real estate? The best advice I received early in my career – and still give today – is: don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. In construction, that might mean literally helping with layout or climbing a ladder. Figuratively, it means rolling up your sleeves, working alongside your team, and digging into the details. Doing so builds respect, camaraderie, and trust. Success in this industry comes from showing that you’re willing to do the hard work and be in the trenches with your team.