What is the biggest misconception about the industry?
The biggest misconception is that our rented temporary containment solution is limited only to certain types of facilities or industries like healthcare and data centers. The reality is that GCs and facility managers across virtually every commercial building and project type are increasingly utilizing our modular, rented panel solution for a huge variety of temporary wall/containment needs.
What is your biggest current challenge at work?
As a new business, the biggest challenge is simply the lack of awareness about what we do! Most GCs are familiar with modular wall panels as an alternative to drywall, zipwall, plywood, or other DIY containment options. What they're typically not aware of is our model: we deliver temporary walls as a turnkey rental service, meaning that we deliver, install, and then break them down and remove them at the end of a job.
Our company turns an aspect of construction that is often a headache for GCs into something that is simply done for them. Our GC clients don't always understand this at the outset, but once we explain it, so many of them have that "Aha!" moment. So, we're very much in education mode, getting the word out to the industry that this is a new and superior model for containment.
How does your ABC membership help your company?
ABC has been instrumental in helping us break into the construction industry in the Metro DC region. As a new business, our focus right now is educating the industry about what we do and building relationships with the large number of construction firms in this market. We would have a far more difficult time without ABC, which has already facilitated dozens of connections and valuable, informative conversations with GCs, subcontractors, vendors, and more throughout our region. The events and programing put on by ABC really help us build these relationships, and the other members we've met have been very welcoming of us given that we're just getting started.
What do you look forward to each day?
I love working with a variety of clients and helping them solve their most complex business challenges ranging from health and safety, sustainable design and improving operational inefficiencies. I am most fulfilled when I hear "job well done" or a client acknowledging that they learned something new. That truly makes me smile and is a big part of my "why".
What are you like to work for?
Supportive, flexible, and welcoming to all insights. I will push you to succeed and show up in the best light.
What is your favorite metro Washington hangout/restaurant?
I absolutely love Union Market and the diversity it offers. From the mix of small pop-up shops to the vast selection of cuisine including Mediterranean, Latin, Asian and Creole; to the festivals and simply outdoor dining spaces. It's a community supporting small businesses and creatives representing the best of DC.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Pediatrician by day, singer by night.
Tell us something no one in the industry knows about you.
I'm named after a Jazz song, "Naima" by John Coltrane, one of the most influential saxophonists and composers of all time.
My grandfather was a jazz pianist, so music has always been an integral part of my life. He taught my father how to play the piano who in turn taught me.
What is your favorite movie or TV show?
My favorite movie is Sliding Doors with Gwyneth Paltrow. It shows how missing the train can alter your life, but at the same time, it confirms that what is meant for you will never pass you by.
What do you do for fun?
I am explorer and love to discover the world around me such as trying new restaurants, testing out new cycling trails, attending festivals and events at Kennedy Center and salsa dancing. I'm also a Monopoly enthusiast and host game nights regularly.
What book are you currently reading?
The First 90 Days by Michael D. Watkins and Win The Day by Mark Batterson.
What was your first job?
My first job was working alongside my father who was the Mayor of a suburb outside of Chicago as his assistant.
My first professional job out of college was a Licensed Case Manager with Lutheran Social Services working with children in foster care.