Salvador Agosto
Program Director, Newark Metropolitan Area
What current project(s) are you working on?
I am currently assigned to the Southern Division of Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) in Lawrenceville, NJ. I work in the Operation & Resources Department as a project coordinator for several major projects within the division. These projects include the building of new electrical substations, the reinforcement of distribution circuits, relocation of existing OH&UG facilities, and a program of projects created to optimize the reliability of the system. This ensures that critical services are maintained and restored for PSE&G’s customers without disruption.
What is your career highlight so far?
I would have to say that the highlight of my career was working in the Renewable Energy industry particularly in wind power and biomass. I find this to be a fascinating area of the industry where I was able to expand my knowledge and apply project controls as well as project management techniques in a dynamic and innovative capacity. Also, my experience acquired in the pharmaceutical industry calls for mention due to the complexity and diversity of industry projects.
With PMA, my highlight to date came in 2013 while working with my current client (PSE&G). Following the destruction caused by Superstorm Sandy, I joined one of the formed “storm mode” teams to coordinate work and track work progress under highly urgent circumstances that set the company’s outage records. I was able to utilize my quick decision-making and prioritization skills while working through the area’s state of emergency.
What is something new or innovative happening in your industry?
I have seen an increase in the use of cloud-based construction management applications that allows users to edit, manage, and track the progress of their project from any web-connected mobile device. Other areas of innovations are the implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and the increasing popularity of sustainable construction, renewable materials, and “green” building.
What are the most positive aspects of working at PMA? Or Share your impressions of PMA’s culture.
The most positive aspect about working at PMA is the respect, professionalism and collaborative environment that exists in the company. For the past 10 years, my experience has been very rewarding and I have been able to grow professionally due to the constant support received by different people within PMA. PMA’s collaborative culture has helped me achieve some of my professional goals which has had a positive impact on my personal goals.
What university or college did you graduate from?
I received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico and an MBA from Rutgers University.
What is your favorite local establishment/feature (restaurant, museum, stadium, etc.)?
I grew up in the Caribbean so I really enjoy going to the beach. My favorite local beach is in Belmar, NJ. It’s a leisurely beach with an upbeat environment and good restaurants for the post-beach munchies. The boardwalk allows for running, bike riding or as of late, a runway to chase after my 2 year old son. My wife and 6 month old daughter find it rather comical.
When I’m not wrangling my toddler, you can find me remaining active in other ways such as playing basketball, golfing, running or biking. I also play percussion instruments in my spare time, so there’s a good chance you’ll find me at the local outdoor music festival enjoying the music.
Fun Fact!
PMA Consultants was founded in 1971, which is the same year Ray Tomlinson invented internet-based email. It’s also the same year the Baltimore Colts won the Super Bowl V Championship.