Alanna Gismero
What are you passionate about and how do you pursue that passion at PMA?
I am passionate about learning and problem solving. I have always enjoyed puzzles and making sense out of things. I really enjoy applying those skills at work. Little satisfies me more at the office than when I can come up with viable and sustainable solutions when there is not a clear path forward or when there are conflicts with our current processes. Being part of a large, multi-project program is really good for honing my critical thinking.
What current project(s) are you working on?
Currently, I am working on an $8.2 billion design-build program in New York City. In the spring of 2017, the city committed to closing major incarceration facilities and creating a network of modern and humane borough-based facilities. This smaller system, will house a population of approximately 3,300. This borough-based system will strengthen connections to families, attorneys, courts, medical and mental health care, and faith and community-based organizations. Being closer to home and transit would enhance the network of support systems for people who are detained and help prevent recidivism.
What are the most positive aspects of working at PMA? Or Share your impressions of PMA’s culture.
I really appreciate that PMA feels more like being part of a community or family than a traditional office environment. We are spread wide and far yet I feel like I know so many of my fellow PMAers and am comfortable reaching out to my colleagues for support whether I have met them in person or not. I sincerely enjoy being a part of the PMA family and never have I felt overlooked, even when working on client sites. PMA has gone beyond every other company I have ever worked for in their efforts to keep employees happy and engaged and management is consistently looking to improve and expand relationships within the company.
What is something innovative happening in your industry that makes you excited about the future?
Having been in the document management world for that last several years I find the number of projects going paperless to be a huge step forward in our industry. The technology that allows us to do so continues to improve which also helps to maintain schedules (think about how many days are spent printing, hole punching, binding, and delivering design and construction documents!) and mitigate risk (more subject matter experts working collaboratively and simultaneously), and of course cost (better record keeping for potential claims).
What university or college did you graduate from?
I studied business management and human resources at City College of San Francisco; accounting at St. John’s University in NY and construction management at Pace University, also in NY. I have received certifications but no formal degree.
What is your favorite local establishment/feature (restaurant, museum, stadium, etc.)?
My favorite restaurant is Sole Luna in Sunnyside Queens–exceptional Italian fare and delightful service and our go to joint over and over. If we are not dining at Sole Luna, we are dining at one of the sister restaurants.
Provide a fun fact or secret talent about yourself?
Fun facts–I’d rather read a book than watch TV. I donate blood every three months.