In construction management, leadership is more than a title—it’s the foundation of success. Drawing from decades of experience, Gary Mierkey emphasizes the critical role of resilience, innovation, and servant leadership in navigating the unique challenges of construction projects. Resilience enables leaders to adapt to changing conditions and uncover solutions by fostering collaboration. Innovation drives creative problem-solving, essential for addressing evolving demands. Servant leadership, marked by empathy and clear communication, builds trust and alignment among stakeholders. Together, these principles transform obstacles into opportunities, shaping not only successful projects but also strong, cohesive teams.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my 37 years of leadership in engineering, business strategy, and public service. I’ve had the privilege of leading successful organizations, driving economic policy, and contributing to community development. Now, I’m looking to leverage my expertise in board and advisory roles to help businesses and nonprofits grow and navigate strategic challenges.

Nicholas Hrycun is a seasoned leader and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the construction and drone technology industries. As the CEO and Owner of Aries Drone Services LLC, he combines technical expertise and innovative solutions to deliver high-quality aerial services across various sectors, utilizing tools like AutoCAD and Adobe Photoshop to solve complex challenges and enhance operational efficiency. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Nicholas excels in his role as a Construction Manager III at QualTek, where he oversees large-scale tower and civil projects, ensuring safety compliance, budget adherence, and timely completion. His diverse career journey, encompassing roles from technician to foreman and licensed electrician, demonstrates a relentless commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in every project he undertakes. Nicholas’s unwavering dedication to leveraging technology and fostering client value positions him as a transformative figure in both the construction and drone services industries.

With a distinguished career spanning five decades, Robert Light has built a legacy as a leader in construction and financial management. Known for his strategic foresight, operational expertise, and commitment to excellence, Robert has consistently delivered transformative results for organizations in the commercial construction industry. From optimizing multimillion-dollar assets to driving operational efficiencies and fostering collaborative teams, his leadership philosophy centers on aligning strategic goals with actionable solutions. As the Principal Consultant at RW Light Consulting, LLC, Robert continues to leverage his unparalleled expertise to empower businesses, enhance profitability, and inspire innovation.

Joel Vande Boom is a highly accomplished Market Leader in Strategic Projects for the Midwest at Gilbane Building Company, where he oversees multi-site programs, ADA compliance initiatives, renovations, and new-build projects for high-profile clients such as Amazon and Wells Fargo. Recognized as one of ENR’s National Top 20 Under 40, Joel brings nearly two decades of expertise in construction, asset management, and project execution, combined with a passion for fostering innovation and operational excellence. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, Joel successfully created and scaled "Gilby," a transformative business model within Gilbane, while also co-leading the Strategic Projects Group National Peer Group. His leadership, strategic acumen, and community-focused mindset make him a driving force in the construction and real estate industries.

Michael Belko is a transformative leader with over 35 years of experience driving strategic growth, operational excellence, and innovation across industries such as renewable energy, manufacturing, and real estate. As a proven C-suite executive, he has successfully led organizations through complex transitions, established high-performing teams, and delivered measurable results, including securing multimillion-dollar contracts and launching new business lines. Known for his collaborative leadership style and strategic foresight, Michael is passionate about fostering company culture, aligning goals with execution, and building sustainable success for the organizations he serves.

With over 50 years of experience, Gary Mierkey is a trusted expert in electrical systems and construction management. His career spans large-scale projects, including federal infrastructure and military installations, where he has consistently demonstrated excellence in quality control, safety, and leadership. A Magna Cum Laude graduate in Computer Information Systems for Project Management, Gary combines technical expertise with strategic oversight to deliver impactful results. Guided by his personal motto, “Honesty is the cornerstone of all success,” he is now seeking to share his extensive knowledge and experience through board service opportunities in construction, electrical systems, and data center industries.

Virginia Greene is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in construction management and accounting, specializing in project finance, financial reporting, and operational efficiency. She is known for her strong character, work ethic, and commitment to excellence, consistently driving results while fostering a culture of accountability. Throughout her career, Virginia has excelled in guiding small to mid-sized companies through complex financial challenges, ensuring projects remain on budget and deadlines are met. Her strategic mindset allows her to lead organizations with clear goals, while her communication skills help build strong relationships and facilitate collaboration at every level of an organization.

Kevin Keane is a distinguished real estate executive with over 36 years of experience specializing in multifamily housing development, construction, and management. Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership roles, including Executive Vice President at Lincoln Property Company and Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at The Bainbridge Companies. Kevin has a proven track record of driving strategic growth, enhancing operational efficiency, and leading large-scale real estate projects. His deep knowledge of real estate finance, asset management, and acquisitions, combined with his strong leadership and communication skills, has made him a respected figure in the industry. Kevin's contributions have left a lasting impact on the companies he served, and his legacy continues to inspire professionals in the real estate sector.

Betty Brano is a seasoned Project Manager and Certified Interior Designer with over 18 years of expertise in delivering high-impact projects across government, commercial, hospitality, and healthcare sectors. Her extensive experience spans interior design, space planning, sustainable material specification, and full-cycle project management, including budgeting, contractor coordination, and client relations. Known for her strategic approach, technical proficiency, and ability to manage complex projects, Betty has consistently delivered exceptional results while fostering strong client relationships and driving cost-saving initiatives. As a leader in the industry and Chairperson of the NYC Metro DEI Design-Build Subcommittee, she is committed to advancing inclusive practices and setting new standards of excellence in design and construction.

I am excited to share my professional journey in the construction industry. With over 19 years of experience, I have led Basch Builders to successfully deliver high-quality residential and commercial projects across the Greater Philadelphia area. I pride myself on my attention to detail, leadership, and commitment to safety and quality. Here is my biography.

Excited to share my professional journey and experiences as a leader in the engineering and construction industries. With over 30 years of experience, I've had the privilege of working with some incredible teams, serving on boards like the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association and Smart Home America, and leading both Aran & Franklin Engineering Inc. and WindPro Builders, L.L.C. My passion for problem-solving drives me to find innovative solutions for every challenge I encounter. Check out my bio to learn more about my work, certifications, and dedication to safe, sustainable practices in our field.

Phillip Paratore is a distinguished executive with over 20 years of experience across architecture, real estate, and construction management. Currently the Chief Operations Officer at Agile Interiors, Phillip's career encompasses high-impact roles managing complex projects across diverse sectors, including Hospitality, Higher Education, and Corporate Campus Planning. His expertise combines architectural vision, hands-on project management, and strategic operational oversight. With a foundation in design and an exceptional ability to lead multi-functional teams, Phillip has consistently driven success for industry leaders like Bechtel Energy, Gensler, and Landry’s Inc. His global experience and adaptive leadership style make him a formidable force in the AEC industry.

Ronald Safren is a highly accomplished executive with over four decades of expertise in real estate development, property management, and business operations. Throughout his distinguished career, Safren has overseen multimillion-dollar projects, including large-scale residential developments, commercial shopping centers, and recreational facilities. His leadership at The Club at Shenandoah Springs Village, Inc., where he managed a 250-acre event and recreation center, along with his role as Chief of Property Development at Shenandoah Springs Development, Inc., highlights his ability to lead complex real estate ventures. Safren's experience, coupled with his strategic vision, has positioned him as a respected leader in the real estate industry.

I'm excited to share a bit about my journey in real estate development and business strategy. With over 23 years of experience managing multi-million-dollar commercial and residential projects, I've had the opportunity to oversee every aspect of development—from site selection and construction to property management and investment oversight. As the Chief Operating Officer at J&J Gove Development, LLC, I’m driven by a commitment to lead by example, ensuring that every project I manage upholds the highest standards of quality and success. I'm always open to new opportunities for collaboration and growth, and I look forward to connecting with like-minded professionals who are passionate about creating value and driving impactful results.

I’m excited to share my updated professional biography with you all. With over 35 years of experience in the industry, I’ve had the privilege of serving as CEO and Managing Director at Quantum Services International, LLC, where I focus on delivering constructive solutions in commercial management, contract strategy, and dispute resolution. My journey as a Chartered Quantity Surveyor and Arbitrator has allowed me to lead multi-million-dollar projects and navigate complex contractual matters across various sectors, including construction, oil & gas, and energy. I’m proud of the strategic vision and proactive approach I’ve brought to these roles, driving successful outcomes and making a significant impact in the industry.