LaunchPM

Meet Yessi Romero: From property manager to project coordinator

Yessi Romero attended University of Arizona where she studied psychology. She brings six years of property management experience to the LaunchPM team. In her new role as a project coordinator, she’s excited to transfer her skillset into the world of construction project management.

Recently, we got to chance to catch up with the busy project coordinator and learn more about her aspirations to succeed in the industry and how she deals with project challenges. Take a look at what Yessi has to say:

Tell us about a day in the life of an Assistant Project Coordinator for LaunchPM.

Every day has a rhythm, but the tempo definitely changes. I usually arrive at the office before my team which allows me to go through my emails and prioritize tasks. This helps me organize my day better and I can see what projects need my attention in the immediate. It also gives me time to complete follow-ups or other reports to help the project managers stay on track. Some days it’s GO GO, GO, all day, especially when I’m out of the office and on-site doing a construction walk through with the team. I’m still new to the company and learning a lot. I love getting to know the intricate details of each project type and providing support where it is needed.

What aspects of your job do you most enjoy?

I enjoy working with my team the most! I love getting to know them and learning from each one of them. They all come from different career backgrounds and have extensive experience and insight to offer. I’m eager to learn and just want to be a sponge, working to absorb as much of their knowledge as possible. We also work from an incredible space on the top floor of Camelback Tower. The view from our office is gorgeous, so that’s also a plus!

When you are faced with a challenging project or task, what do you do to make sure the project stays on track?

The first thing I do is to write down what the task is and what I need to do to accomplish it. This gives me a better understanding of any gaps of clarity or expertise I may need to get the job done. It allows me to either leverage my resources by researching and reviewing against previous projects or to take a step back and acknowledge that I need to reach out to someone on the team to provide assistance.

Ultimately, I respect the timeline of each project and make sure I’m communicating with my team to ensure I know which tasks take precedence over others. Prioritizing and then completing that task, prior to moving on to the next.

What qualities do you think are most important for someone wanting to pursue a career in construction project management?

The willingness to take initiative and the hunger to learn are two important qualities.  This industry is ever changing, which requires a person that is willing to adapt. While there are similar tasks, each project can be completely different. There are some elements that are consistent, while no two days on the job or projects are exactly the same.

Any advice for someone looking to get into construction project management?

My advice is simple, start every day with an open mind and a positive attitude. A career in construction project management is challenging but it’s also rewarding, especially when you are there to witness the process and be involved in the progress of a project from day one to completion. No matter what the day holds, each day is spent learning something new and that in itself is amazing!

When you are not at work, how do you like spending your time?

I am an avid reader, so I enjoy spending time at Barnes and Nobles or other local bookstores to see what new books pique my interest. I also consider myself a foodie, so I really like trying out new restaurants, and there’s an abundance of options here in Phoenix. Overall, I’m still fairly new to the area, so I’m always looking for opportunities to explore and see what fun adventures and experiences are out there!

If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

As nervous as I’d be, I would love to have dinner with and learn from Emma Watson. I grew up watching her as Hermione in Harry Potter and I always admired her intelligence and bravery but the woman behind the character is even more impressive and deserves all the recognition she’s gotten. She’s unproblematic and so well-spoken. If I could have even a fraction of her grace, I would be grateful.

If you would like to learn more about how Yessi and the LaunchPM team can work with your company on a tenant improvement or large commercial construction project, please get in touch. We’d be happy to answer any questions and work with you to .

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Henry Kierse

HENRY KIERSEY

Favorite Quote:

“Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.”

— Theodore Roosevelt

Professional Expertise

With prior experience in construction management, industrial real estate and client services, Henry has built a foundation for his role as a project coordinator at LaunchPM.

An internship with a national real estate firm’s industrial team provided Henry with a platform to developed strong computer and analytical skills.  Later, his work as an assistant construction manager for a design build residential developer and as a design assistant and logistics coordinator for a home staging and interior design firm, fueled his interest in a career in project management.

Education

Bachelor of Science – Economics, Minor – History,  Arizona State University

Undergraduate Student – Economics, Southern Methodist University

Why LaunchPM?

In the past I’ve had amazing mentors, worked with many diverse clients, and had the opportunity to team with skilled tradespeople to complete projects. Now, as a member of the LaunchPM team, I will continue to gain experience and grow in the industry.

Contact Henry

henry@launch-pm.com

Project Coordinator David Garcia

DAVID GARCIA

Favorite Quote:

“Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.”

— Michael Jordan

Professional Expertise

David joins LaunchPM with extensive experience in campaign management, assistant management within the telecommunications sector and supply chain operations.

David worked as a Campaign Manager for a social media company where he adeptly orchestrated multifaceted marketing campaigns from conception to execution, consistently driving brand awareness, customer engagement, and revenue growth. David brings his skills and proficiency to the LaunchPM team where he oversees day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives. David has a proven track record in implementing innovative solutions to overcome logistical challenges, to enhance productivity and ensure seamless operations across diverse business functions.

Education

BA of Arts and Science in 3D Animation and Visual Effects, New Mexico State University

Why LaunchPM?

After much contemplation and a fervent search for change and growth, I chose to embark on a new journey with LaunchPM. Their commitment to innovation, fostering professional development and embracing diverse perspectives deeply resonates with my aspirations for personal and career advancement. I’m eager to contribute my skills and expertise to a dynamic team dedicated to pushing boundaries and making meaningful impacts in the community.

Contact David

david@launch-pm.com

YESSI ROMERO

Favorite Quote:

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience and trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”

— Helen Keller

Professional Expertise

With 6 years of property management experience, Yessi has worked through a diverse range of apartment living types, including student, conventional, military, and luxury housing.

Prior to joining LaunchPM, Yessi worked as a Workplace Coordinator for a widely known FinTech company. She acted as a culture carrier within the office by coordinating events, leading RTO onboarding and consistently pulse checking the office to ensure employee satisfaction remained high.

Education

Attended the University of Arizona, studying Psychology.

Why LaunchPM?

LaunchPM came into my life at the perfect time and has offered me the opportunity to learn and grow with some of the most skilled individuals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. I look forward to achieving greatness alongside this incredible team.

Contact Yessi

yessi@launch-pm.com

HANNAH THUESON

Favorite Quote:

“For me, becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self. The journey doesn’t end.” 

— Michelle Obama

Professional Expertise

Hannah joins the LaunchPM team with an interest in pursuing a career in project management. Her previous experience as an Account Manager for a social media company provided her with experience in managing multiple clients, meeting deadlines and working as an integral part of a team. In her position as Assistant Financial Coordinator these are skills that will serve her well as she is tasked with assisting in various aspects of accounting including: managing invoices, updating project budgets and keeping updated records of any changes to project finances.

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from Hofstra University.

Why LaunchPM?

I have a passion for planning and organizing and was excited when I learned about the opportunity to join the LaunchPM team and apply my skills. It is a growing company with a knowledgeable group of professionals in the construction project management industry for me to learn from and to grow.

Contact Hannah

hannah@launch-pm.com

 

ANGIE VELIMIROVICH

Favorite Quote:

“Even the most precious of all gems needs to be chiseled and faceted to achieve its best luster. There is nothing that remains so constant as change. Don’t end up like concrete, all mixed up and permanently set.”

— John L. Mason

Professional Expertise

Bringing in-depth knowledge and experience of corporate administrative and operational roles, Angie Velimirovich serves as a Project Management Administrative Assistant with LaunchPM. Drawing on her exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, Angie supports our team in delivering optimal results for clients.

Prior to joining LaunchPM, Angie enjoyed a long-term career with Avnet – one of the world’s largest distributors of electronic components and embedded solutions. During her time with Avnet, she served in departments such as Corporate Real Estate and global electronic sales in the U.S. and Latin America.

Education

Lease Administration Training, Phoenix College & University of Phoenix

Industry-specific courses

Why LaunchPM?

LaunchPM is a very innovative and forward-thinking company, which creates a fun work environment and great growth opportunities.

Contact Angie

angie@launch-pm.com

REBECCA RHOADES

Favorite Quote:

“My mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, compassion, humor and some style”

— Maya Angelou

Professional Expertise

Rebecca is an accomplished and dynamic leader with more than 25 years of professional experience in commercial property management, building operations, tenant improvement, leasing and financial management. During her career she has also gained valuable knowledge and experience in marketing, sales training and residential real estate.

Prior to joining Launch PM, Rebecca worked as the property manager in the real estate department of a leading, nonprofit in the healthcare industry. There she was responsible for operations of a comprehensive portfolio of properties that included more than 35 medical office buildings. During her five-year tenure, she worked closely with Launch PM on more than 51 expansion or tenant improvement projects, valuing more than 50 million.

Rebecca’s strong communication skills, attention to detail, focus on results and commitment to assisting the team allow her to be a strategic partner as a Project Coordinator for the Launch PM team.

Education

Commercial Property Management – AZ Department of Real Estate

Residential Real Estate License

Industry-specific courses

Why LaunchPM?

It is exciting to join a dedicated, hardworking team with the commitment, integrity and values that create a positive and healthy work environment where people are involved and take ownership.

I am a passionate individual with a genuine interest in assisting individuals and companies reach their goals and potential growth.

Contact Rebecca

rebecca@launch-pm.com

 

MIKE DEFRANCO

Favorite Quote

“Apprentices work furiously to learn the rules; journeymen proudly perfect the rules; but masters forget the rules.”

– Randy Kosimar

Professional Expertise

With a background in the custom cabinetry industry, Mike has held a variety of roles that have equipped him with unique insight for his position as a Project Manager with LaunchPM. As a former Professional Woodworker, he produced handcrafted custom furniture and cabinetry. He also served as an Installation Supervisor, coordinating installation of custom cabinetry on site, and as a Staging/Shipping Supervisor, which required him to coordinate the staging and shipping of all project phases to sites around the country.

Education

BA in Urban Design, Arizona State University

Why LaunchPM?

LaunchPM has allowed me to challenge myself and grow as an individual while also being a part of a tremendous team.

Contact Mike

mdefranco@launch-pm.com

CHRIS BENOIT

Favorite Quote

“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.”

— Colin Powell

Professional Expertise

With over 22 years of experience in the design and construction industry, Chris has worked on a wide variety of project types, including corporate office, hospitality, healthcare, higher education, mission-critical, and municipal. He has served as director/vice president of operations and has vast expertise in estimating and pre-con, project management, ground-up construction, and renovation.

Chris has been responsible for building approximately 500 or more tenant improvement projects, ranging in price from $10K to $10 million and in size from 100 sf to 100,000 sf. Drawing on his experience, Chris provides constructability review and strong cost analysis throughout the design phase. He enjoys interacting with multiple stakeholders, design teams, and contractors, and taking a project from inception all the way through final completion.

Chris’s strong communication and organizational skills enable him to balance and work on multiple projects simultaneously.

Education

Associates in Applied Sciences – Architectural and Building Technology, Vermont Technical College

Bachelor of Science – Construction Management, Arizona State University

Why LaunchPM?

I love being surrounded by dedicated and hard-working individuals who share a common goal to go above and beyond expectations to make our clients’ dreams and projects a reality.

Contact Chris

chris@launch-pm.com

BETH SCARANO

Principal/ CEO

Favorite Quote:

“I’ve come to believe that each of us has a personal calling that’s as unique as a fingerprint – and that the best way to succeed is to discover what you love and then find a way to offer it to others in the form of service, working hard, and also allowing the energy of the universe to lead you.”

― Oprah Winfrey

Professional Expertise

Gathered through more than 25 years of experience in the design and construction industry, Beth Scarano offers extensive expertise in a variety of project types including corporate office, hospitality, healthcare, higher education, mission-critical, and municipal.

Beth headed the client and project development teams for several national construction firms and was responsible for projects valued at more than $3 billion.
Her strong communication, organization, management and team-building skills enable her to bring a wide range of talent to the table in order to create swift and measurable results for her clients.

Beth provides strategic leadership and assists the LaunchPM team in developing and managing the client’s goals and expectations. She has experience working with many high-profile clients and brings a solutions-oriented approach to each project.
Committed to her community, Beth has also shared her leadership skills as a board member for several professional and non-profit organizations.

Education

Pepperdine University and Arizona State University focusing on a degree in Business/Marketing.

Affiliations

Board of Directors and Active Member, CoreNet Global
Mentor, Center for Entrepreneurial Innovation
Active Member, Alliance for Construction Excellence
Active Member, Central Arizona Society of Healthcare Engineers
Active Member, NAIOP
Active Member, Phoenix Community Alliance
Past Co-Chair, Community Building Consortium, Greater Phoenix Economic Council

My Personal Commitment to Service:

I have always been a strong believer in the philosophy that “actions speak louder than words” and “doing what you say you will do.” My personal commitment to service is to be the best wife, mother, sister, friend, and partner to those around me by giving and doing my best.

Why LaunchPM?

LaunchPM is about making things happen and I am fortunate to be a part of this rare group of committed and talented people focused on service.

Contact Beth

bscarano@launch-pm.com