WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION WEEK

Christine Marez, Vice President, Public PM Energy

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?” – Marianne Williamson

How long have you been in the AEC community?

I have been in the project management and construction community for 20 years, and the last 10 years in the world of energy and sustainability — going back to my engineering roots.

Who inspires you?

Lisa Sachs, former Cumming Managing Principal, is my mentor and someone I admire and strive to be more like. Lisa was one of the first woman business owners in our industry in the 80s-90s, when I met her on LAUSD’s $29 billion building program. She owned a construction management company that Cumming later acquired. Lisa recently retired from Cumming but remains a strong supporter. She was always there for me in my career — especially when I started my own firm in 2010 — to encourage me and guide me through the rough times. She is an AIA Architect Fellow, and always managed her team with grace and strength.

What is your personal goal with being on this committee?

Almost a year and a half ago, during the LA office summer event, I met some amazing team members on Catalina Island. We all agreed at that time that we needed to find a way to stay connected — something more than just an annual event — and the idea of Women of CCorp was created. My personal goal being on this committee is to give the incredible women in our firm a platform to come together to share their stories and challenges and to champion each other.