Structural Integrity: A Blueprint for Success at NYPA
The third week in September is National Construction Appreciation Week, and we’re using it to celebrate Danielle, a trailblazing engineer whose passion for construction and renewable energy has powered a remarkable career.
At the New York Power Authority (NYPA), Danielle plays a pivotal role in rehabilitating critical infrastructure and managing major projects. Now serving as the Resident Construction Manager at the Niagara Power Project, she continues to inspire and lead with her dedication to engineering excellence and community outreach.
Tell us about your background and how you came to NYPA.
I earned my bachelor's and master's degrees in engineering from the University of Buffalo and obtained my Professional Engineering certification in New York State. I spent 12 years at an engineering design and consulting firm in Buffalo, progressing from engineer to project manager, focusing on structural analysis, facility assessments, and bridge inspections.
I joined NYPA in 2019 as a civil structural engineer, supporting the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure and serving as the on-site dam safety coordinator. A little over a year ago, I started my current role as Resident Construction Manager.
What interested you about working at NYPA?
I always found the Power Authority fascinating, especially from my experience working on NYPA projects at a consulting firm. Seeing NYPA's assets and being on-site for investigations, I viewed it as an engineering marvel.
Upon joining NYPA, I initially focused on maintenance but was eager to get involved in capital projects. My desire to learn about power generation and transmission ignited my interest in the field of construction management at NYPA.
What are some key projects that you’ve worked on?
During my time in General Maintenance, I focused on rehabilitating critical aging infrastructure at the Robert Moses and Pump Plant, including a project to repair degraded expansion joints on the generator decks to prevent water infiltration. I managed the design, bidding, and contractor oversight for these repairs.
I also oversaw the design and construction of a new secondary relay room in the switchyard and renovated the women's locker room at the Lewiston Pump Generating Plant to be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
In my current role in construction management, I've been working on significant projects like NextGen Niagara Unit 6 and the Switchyard Life Extension Module project.
What have been some challenges that your new role has presented?
This is my first experience as a manager with direct reports, and the biggest challenge has been managing and motivating people. The technical aspects can be learned, but inspiring my team to give their best every day is crucial.
NYPA’s management development programs have equipped me with tools to understand the personalities and work styles of my team and allows me to adapt my management approach to everyone. It has also helped me effectively communicate and motivate my team to be successful and enthusiastic about their work.
Speaking of challenges, you are the first woman Resident Construction Manager in Western New York. What hurdles did you have to overcome during your career?
I’ve sometimes felt the need to prove myself, especially among male colleagues and contractors. To address this, I ensure that I have a deep understanding of the technical details, which enables me to communicate confidently and offer effective solutions. Being a subject matter expert gives me the confidence to speak up and engage actively, rather than shying away.
What have been some memorable moments during your time at NYPA?
In 2019, I joined a site tour with several interns and walked down to the Robert Moses Power Plant. Seeing the enormity and scale of the facility was truly awe-inspiring. The engineering marvel of constructing it in just three years hit me, and I felt honored to be part of this history and help preserve these assets for years to come. It was a realization that I get to work here, something not everyone gets to experience.
As someone who occasionally had to overcome certain stigmas or stereotypes, how have you used your position as a means of giving back?
I’ve led the Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program, where we welcome interns from underserved communities to the Niagara Power Project. I’ve answered questions and shared my career path to inspire them to pursue engineering jobs.
Additionally, during my time in General Maintenance, I mentored two interns, sharing the challenges faced as a woman in engineering and providing them with guidance and knowledge. I’m proud to be part of NYPA's outreach efforts.
What advice would you have for someone embarking on this career path?
Take every opportunity to get involved in the industry and community—whether it’s engineering or construction. Make connections, ask questions, attend seminars, and join professional societies. Also, take any chance to get out in the field and gain firsthand experience.
You can only learn so much from books; real-world experience teaches you the details and decision-making skills that make a good engineer. In the field, you'll encounter challenges that don't appear in theoretical scenarios, and learning from these instances is invaluable for becoming a skilled engineer and construction manager.