2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Jessica Bardi, Robinson+Cole

“Jess stands out for her strong judgment, deep understanding of land use and environmental regulation, and ability to guide complex projects to successful outcomes. She combines technical skill with a collaborative, client-focused approach that makes her a trusted adviser and an emerging leader in our practice.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role? My career path is rooted in a lifelong passion for the ocean and the natural environment, which grew from years spent sailing and later studying marine biology and environmental conservation. I realized early on that land use and environmental law would allow me to combine that passion with advocacy. After earning my J.D., I pursued opportunities to build a practice focused on permitting, zoning, and environmental compliance, which led me to my role at Robinson+Cole.

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of? One of the projects I am most proud of is helping secure land use approvals for the redevelopment of the former Medfield State Hospital campus into 334 mixed-income apartments, including significant affordable housing. The project required navigating complex zoning and permitting issues and balancing development goals with community and environmental considerations, ultimately advancing much-needed housing while respecting local and state regulatory frameworks.

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you? I have been fortunate to learn from many mentors at Robinson+Cole who model thoughtful advocacy, professionalism, and collaboration. The most valuable advice I’ve received is that preparation and credibility are everything – if you know the facts, understand the regulatory landscape, and treat all stakeholders with respect, your voice will carry weight. That guidance has shaped how I approach both client service and leadership.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry? The intersection of land use, environmental regulation, and development is evolving rapidly, particularly around coastal resilience, climate adaptation, renewable energy, and housing development. I see significant opportunity in helping clients navigate these challenges through proactive permitting strategies and creative problem-solving. As regulations grow more complex, thoughtful collaboration between developers, communities, and regulators will be essential.