Building The DMV

The movement to increase sustainability and renewable energy in the construction industry continues to grow astronomically, and solar power remains one of the most popular methods to decrease a carbon footprint. Join us as we discuss Aurora Energy's unique solar projects with their DC Managing Director Cord Briggs. Solar is not only becoming more economical, the design and installation of solar modules can also add a unique visual appeal.

"I found my purpose, I love what I do." That is an incredibly powerful statement from Maria Thompson, Executive Vice President of Construction at Hoffman & Associates. And she doesn't say that lightly - she has built her career on trust, strength, and experience. We are delighted to share Part Two of our conversation with Maria, where she shares some of her personal inspiration and experiences. Born and raised in the DC area, Maria is now leading the development of the Wharf for Hoffman and...

“I really believe that leadership is a service.” One of the many insightful thoughts from Maria Thompson, Executive Vice President– Construction at Hoffman and Associates, and our next guest of “Building the DMV Presented by Selective Hauling.” Born and raised in the DC area, Maria is now leading the development of the Wharf for Hoffman and Associates, where she spent many days with her family growing up. Her journey began in the District, continued through careers with Clark Construction...

The Maryland Stadium Authority manages the 85 acre complex which includes Oriole Park, M&T Bank Stadium and the B&O Warehouse. In this episode of “Building the DMV,” meet Jana Brooks, who is the Events and Tenant Services Manager for the MSA. As the sustainability guru, she is responsible for maintaining the property’s LEED certifications, while also keeping an eye on improvements and renovations throughout the complex. As we hope to have large gatherings back in our stadiums, find out what...

As the Executive Vice President of Gilbane, Paul Choquette III has overseen the Mid-Atlantic region for the past eight years. As a fifth-generation member of the Gilbane family, his career has been a journey that did not actually start in the construction industry. Paul explains how his outside experience helped him on many different levels, plus he discusses the importance of re-branding while strengthening a company culture through a teamwork mentality. Gilbane’s work in the community in...

Pamela Johnson has spent her entire career in the construction field, having started as a structural engineer shortly after graduating from Howard University. Her professional journey has taken her to the Midwest and back again, into the world of school construction in the Mid-Atlantic, and now to the role of Chief Operating Officer for Cooper Building Services. Johnson takes time to share valuable lessons learned from her successful career and offers great insight into the uncertain market...

Lynn Stith Bennett has been a pioneer for women in construction for more than three decades. The Executive VP of Coakley and Williams talks to Jill Sorenson about her early days in the field, including managing a project in Alaska! She also discusses her evolution into the business side of Coakley and Williams, serving as a leader in building a healthy company culture, and as a leader in the region’s industry trade and networking associations.

Charlie Smiroldo, Managing Director at Stream Realty, DC, has traveled an interesting journey to get to where he is today. In this episode of “Building the DMV,” Charlie tells us how his artistic skills brought him from construction to commercial development. He offers insights into today’s real estate market and takes a look ahead at what our future office spaces might look like. Charlie also takes us behind the scenes into the process of buying, owning, leasing, designing, and renovating a...

Michael Marshall, President and CEO of Michael Marshall Design, discusses how his firm tackles obstacles to creating communities in areas where there is little to none.

Jim Davis, President and CEO of Davis Construction looks back to the beginning of how the family business got started by his great grandfather, and how it has evolved through the decades. He also discusses the importance of family values, his favorite projects and takes a look ahead to what the construction and real estate market will bring to the DC region in the near future.