Spotlights

2023 Year in Review: James Owen, HFA Architecture + Engineering

What person, project, transaction, or market trend had the greatest impact on your industry this year? As we continue to lean into the retail design industry, we are continuing to see 3rd party delivery services and online pick-up continue to impact how retailers deal with multiple points of engagement.

2023 Year in Review: Elizabeth Krol, Ramboll

How has your career path changed in 2023? My career path changed in 2023 to include more focus on ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) and sustainability support for my key real estate clients. Joining Ramboll’s global team also expanded my ability to provide environmental, engineering and energy services internationally.

2023 Year in Review: Gary Zamperelli, Nationwide Security Service

What emerging trends will drive investment and development in 2024? There is no trend larger or that will have a major impact on the security industry than artificial intelligence (AI). The security AI trend would also include a blend of AI and cybersecurity.

2023 Year in Review: Itamar Chalif, Rockland Trust Bank

What person, project, transaction, or market trend had the greatest impact on your industry this year? Interest rates are a market trend with a strong impact on business. Property that yesterday would have “cash flowed” with rent it was receiving doesn’t necessarily do so today because the cost of money is higher.

2023 Year in Review: Jason Atwood, Northstar Project & Real Estate Services

What person, project, transaction, or market trend had the greatest impact on your industry this year? Without a doubt, rising interest rates had the single greatest impact on the commercial real estate development industry this year. Increased borrowing costs combined with inflationary forces challenged project teams to problem solve

2023 Year in Review: John Famiglietti, Commercial Connection LLC

What person, project, transaction, or market trend had the greatest impact on your industry this year? Rising Interest Rates impacted our industry; even with construction costs down and the supply chain improving; demand slowed down to pre- pandemic years. Investors took a break on development plans watching the economy and interest rates.

Check out NEREJ's
2023 Year in Review!

Check out NEREJ's 2023 Year in Review!

Check out NEREJ's
Top Projects of 2023!

Check out NEREJ's Top Projects of 2023!

2023 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Brooke Woodson of Shawmut Design and Construction

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? To further Shawmut’s commitment to DEI, this year, I was proud to launch our Diverse Partnerships Program – an initiative that provides more opportunities for diverse vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers. The program enables economic, social, and community opportunity

2023 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Susan Shelby of Rhino PR

What makes this nominee an Industry Leader? “I have worked with Susan Shelby for 22 years and am continuously impressed by her industry knowledge, leadership, and professionalism. She mentors not only the future leaders of the design and construction industry, but also her colleagues and clients.