What do you do at Allen Construction? I recently moved into the role of Client Relations & Sustainability Manager. I’m looking forward to working more closely with our clients from initial intake to final project walkthrough, to help ensure our services are exceeding our clients’ expectations.
Allen Construction is recognized regionally and nationally as a leader in green building practices, and one of our core values is to build homes that are healthy, comfortable, durable, and energy and water efficient. I hope to collaborate with industry partners to continue improving our collective carbon footprint and work towards building a more sustainable future.
Mari in the 10,000 sf grand penthouse on the 36th floor of one of the ultra-luxury, mixed-use towers in Honolulu.
How did you get started in the construction field? I recently earned my Master’s degree in Construction Management and Technology with an emphasis in sustainability from Arizona State University. Prior to starting at Allen Construction, I worked on the development of a 60-acre LEED-platinum certified, master-planned community in the heart of Honolulu.
Where do you live? I live in Carpinteria with my husband, two children (Olivia 5, & Asher, 2), and puppy, Luna.
What do you like to do outside of work? I like to explore new places. Prior to the pandemic there was a lot of international travel, but now we’ve made a lot of discoveries in our “backyard”. Next on my list is Yellowstone National Park with my 2 and 5 year old children.
What is your proudest achievement? Breaking ground on six luxury residential towers in the master-planned community and years later seeing new homeowners and businesses moving into the buildings.
What was the last book you read? “Humans of New York” by Brandon Stanton. It’s a coffee table book that I’ve had for the past year that I often flip through. It is a beautiful reminder of our shared and enduring humanity.
We wouldn’t know it to look at you, but…I love taking photographs – usually candids of people and interior design/architecture. I also love being around animals – dogs and horses are my favorite.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the construction industry? Be curious, be receptive to feedback, and create opportunities for learning exposure.