Spotlights

Rhode Island’s industrial real estate market outlook - by Julie Freshman and George Paskalis

As we near the mid-point of 2025, Rhode Island’s industrial real estate market continues to be characterized by low vacancy rates, steady demand, as well as evolving technological and economic influences. Limited new construction and sustained demand across

Promises made, promises kept - by Dennis Serpone

The election of Donald Trump by over 50% of the population has set in motion a euphoria that is sweeping the country. The stock market keeps breaking daily records bringing us back to pre-Biden days. Car sales, new and used, are through the roof although at higher cost,

2025 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Jamie Muntz, BOND Civil & Utility Construction

If you could give advice to someone just starting out in your field, what would it be? I was once told by a colleague, “Don’t let them know how smart you are, you’ll end up with more work.” Several years into my career, the advice I’d give is the opposite: Let them see you are curious, determined, and eager to learn.

2025 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Allen Higens, South Coast Improvement Company

If you could give advice to someone just starting out in your field, what would it be? My advice would be simple: dig in and learn. This is a tough industry, and the amount of knowledge required can seem immense early on. Take every opportunity to absorb as much as you can, whether it’s through hands- on experience, asking questions, or learning from the people around you.

2025 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Gillian Valanzola, Margulies Perruzzi

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? One of the significant challenges I encountered in my career was entering the workforce at the end of the pandemic. The new normal was a hybrid workstyle. While this transition was difficult for everyone, it was particularly daunting as a newcomer trying to establish meaningful professional relationships.

2025 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Caitlin Romasco, Casner & Edwards, LLP

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? As a litigator, one of the greatest challenges I’ve faced is navigating the wide range of personalities involved in real estate disputes. These matters often require not only legal acumen but also the ability to manage differing perspectives and diffuse tensions.

2025 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Jamison Kelley, Avail Project Management

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? Early in my career, I observed some initial hesitation from executive clients when working with younger project managers. Understandably, these leaders often oversee high- stakes initiatives and naturally prefer experienced leadership, which can sometimes be associated with age.

2025 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Paul Daniels, Chapman Construction/Design

Who has played a pivotal role in your development, and how have they influenced you? I can’t point to just one person who significantly impacted my professional development. I’ve been fortunate to learn from many experienced and wise individuals at Chapman.

2025 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Chase Corcoran, Resource Options, Inc.

Who has played a pivotal role in your development, and how have they influenced you? First and foremost, my parents have been my greatest supporters, through every challenge and success! They’ve helped shape the person I am today. Outside of family, the incredible team at ROI has been instrumental in my professional growth.

2025 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: J. Benjamin Scott, SV Design

What recent professional milestone or project are you most proud of, and why? Building Science has been a career interest for the last 14 years of my career. Gaining an intricate understanding of how air and moisture move through different building materials is important in making educated design decisions.