Name: Melissa R. Boulden, P.E., LEED AP BD+C
Title: V.P. of Project Development / Director of Engineering
Age: 35
Company, City: Mid-Atlantic Steel, LLC, New Castle, DE
Years in field: 11+
Education: B.S. of Civil Engineering – University of Delaware (2005), M. Civil Engineering – University of Delaware (2007)
Birthplace: Wilmington, DE
City of Residence: Middletown, DE
Family (spouse, children): Husband – Rory, Son – Cole 6 yrs old, Daughter – Reese 3 yrs old

What is your business motto?
Delivering the highest quality steel fabrication and erection under one umbrella that provides a unique turn-key construction experience.

When did you first become interested in your career path?
I’ve been interested in steel structures since I was little and my dad first started MAS (initially started under East Coast Erectors, Inc., which became associated with our erection arm when we joined the union). I grew up driving by job sites and inspecting every building they fabricated and erected, which I always thought was really neat. As I got older, I realized I excelled at math and science and enjoyed puzzles and solving problems, which further reinforced my decision to pursue civil engineering and eventually structural steel.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Least rewarding?
The most rewarding part in my current position is getting to build long lasting relationships across the construction industry. I love interacting with people and enjoy creating and maintaining client relationships and developing new friendships. Relationships don’t have a start and end, as they require constant effort and attention.
The least rewarding certainly has to be not being awarded a desired job we worked really hard on and invested a lot of time and energy pursuing.

What is your biggest daily challenge?
Using my former experience as a licensed structural engineer to bring a unique perspective to projects and create solutions to complex challenges. My engineering background has allowed me to assist with preconstruction and estimating efforts, as well as offering value engineering opportunities to our clients.

How do you inspire your colleagues?
I strongly believe a positive attitude/outlook and good communication are of the highest importance and try to convey this daily. I think coming to work with a smile on your face is also imperative to creating an open and friendly working environment.

What goal are you currently striving to achieve?
Continuing to deepen/develop my understanding of the key metrics that drive the steel business and MAS.

What projects are you currently working on?
A new 6-story 200,000 SF laboratory building at University of Delaware and a new 2-story 101,050 SF school. Additionally, I am involved in finishing up several projects that were substantially complete last year, including a 10-story Tower and Atrium & Audion at the STAR Campus, a 6-Story 207,000 SF mix-use commercial and residential building in Philadelphia, PA and a 93,000 SF elementary school in Sussex County, DE.

Do you have a life motto? If so, what is it?
Lead by example – perception is everything.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career?
Perseverance, drive and dedication are paramount in allowing you to achieve your goals.

What was your favorite CLC event?
Hands down the Phillies opening day networking event and game!

How do you find that participating in CLC activities benefits you?
They have allowed me to expand my network of colleagues and develop business relationships and friendships with other leaders across the construction industry. I have met many great mentors being a part of GBCA and CLC. It has also provided numerous great educational and training opportunities.

Do you have any advice for other CLC members/ young professionals who are looking to advance their career?
Focus on building relationships with other peers in your age group/level who will become future leaders, as they will continue to grow and move up with you. Also, always do what you say you are going to do when you say you are going to do it or have a darn good reason why you can’t.

What is your favorite thing about being a member of GBCA?
The ability to network and continue to grow relationships at GBCA events. It is also a way to learn about what’s happening and upcoming in the local construction industry.