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One of WithersRavenel’s directors is joining a select nationwide group tasked with helping the AEC industry build a more diverse workforce while also addressing retention and recruitment challenges.
Alicia Albini, SI, LEED AP BD+C, is the Director of Large-Scale Residential Development at WithersRavenel. Albini was among 26 people chosen to join the 2023 elevateHER Cohort sponsored by Zweig Group. The goal of the cohort is to embrace, promote, and ensure equal opportunities for everyone in the AEC industry regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. The group also serves as a hub for advisers, information, and resources.
With nearly 30 years of AEC experience, Alicia has long been passionate about mentorship and inclusion. The goals of the Zweig initiative made it immediately attractive to her.
“I’m passionate about helping others with their growth and development,” Alicia said. This really resonated with me as a program that I’d like to be involved in. I’m excited to work with a group of diverse people with the same common goal in mind, which is to develop a program that’s going to make a positive impact in the industry.”
Alicia will soon be meeting the rest of the 2023 cohort and breaking into groups to focus on problem-solving and building a more inclusive future for the industry. She’s looking forward to working on programs to help empower and encourage people interested in AEC careers.
Some of her experience with AEC inclusivity involves WithersRavenel’s in-house mentorship program, where she helps fellow employee-owners with personal growth.
“I’ve been volunteering in the mentorship program at WithersRavenel, and it’s been enjoyable,” she said. “I’ve been able to work with different women in the company to help empower them and offer them a growth mindset toward continuous improvement. Helping all employees not only meet but also exceed their individual goals is my goal.”
From encouraging young people to follow their dreams to providing students and industry employees with access to resources, mentors, and opportunities, Alicia’s experience as a leader in shaping AEC careers also positions her to be a valuable member of the elevateHER cohort.
“I really enjoy empowering others and watching them grow from that experience,” Alicia said.
Zweig Group is the leading research, publishing, and consulting resource for the built environment. The firm’s mission to elevate the industry, has five tenets: promote, diversify, educate, change, and celebrate.
The Zweig cohort will be active throughout 2023, with possible opportunities for contributions in the future as well. To meet the members of the 2023 cohort, visit https://zgelevateher.com/2023-cohort.