2022 Women in Construction: Anna Evangelista, Director of Lab Planning at Ci Design, Inc.

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? My greatest professional achievement in the last 12 months is being promoted to director of lab planning. I joined Ci Design, Inc. in 2019 as a senior lab planner and as the science & technology practice grew, my skills advanced and were recognized with this promotion.

When you’re not busy, what is your go to book or podcast to help you unwind? I enjoy listening to TEDTalks.

Starting out in the construction business, who or what empowered you? It empowered me to establish myself with a niche skill set (lab planning) where other designers, engineers, and consultants would come to me for my expertise.

Within your firm, who has helped you succeed within the industry? How have they helped you? The project managers and upper management have fostered my growth within the industry by providing opportunities for me to show my skills. For example, I was given opportunities to lead meetings and discussions around lab planning with both current and prospective clients. This gave me the confidence and experience to grow my skills and succeed in this industry.

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? Confidence is key. Also, the ability to learn and understand other disciplines within the construction business and how they relate to your specialty will not only better your own communication skills, but also help you grow as a professional. Each discipline has its own language and being able to speak them fluently will only strengthen your standing in the industry.