Leadership That Drives Success
Two Decades of Industry Experience
Over the past 20 years, Ms. Ramirez has worked closely with construction managers, project managers, architects, engineers, and contractors during the design and construction of new schools. As a representative of the NYC School Construction Authority (SCA), she participated in the agency’s efforts to modernize/renovate educational facilities. In addition, Ms. Ramirez coordinated the acquisition of properties throughout the five (5) boroughs for the construction of new educational facilities in overcrowded school districts. Over the years, Ms. Ramirez has worked closely with architects, general contractors, subcontractors, and project managers to complete the design and construction of new facilities.
Currently, her firm, CARA Construction Management, provides technical assistance to over 50 M/WBE/LBE firms who participate in the Mentor Program through the SCA. Her role includes teaching small contractors to understand and implement policies and procedures established by the agency. In addition, Ms. Ramirez has developed specific teaching and training tools designed to assist contractors in achieving their objectives of building and completing projects successfully. She has developed specialized core curricula on behalf of SCA and delivered training to over 150 contractors in the mentor program. Her experience in construction management and community revitalization encompasses sound methods and techniques that have proven successful in private and public sectors. Furthermore, between 2007 and 2012, her firm successfully closed and transferred over 150 SCA projects ranging in value from $80,000 to $650,000.
Ms. Ramirez is a small business owner with experience in construction management, affordable housing, and community–government relations. From 1991 until 1997, she worked diligently with elected officials, community-based organizations, and government agencies to improve and preserve the quality of life of residents in private and city-owned buildings. During the mid-1980s, Ms. Ramirez worked as a manager and assistant director of affordable housing services at SEBCO Development and SEBCO Management. She interviewed prospective tenants, conducted apartment inspections as part of the company’s capital improvement program, spearheaded non-payment and holdover proceedings in housing court, and monitored collection of rent arrears. In addition, Ms. Ramirez coordinated repair work to ensure living conditions met HUD, HPD, and DHCR standards.
While working closely with federal, state, and city agencies, Ms. Ramirez made local authorities aware of the difficulties experienced by public housing residents. Some of her recommendations and strategies for improving living conditions and overall quality of life in low- and middle-income communities were implemented by the New York City Housing Authority, resulting in significant improvements in the manner in which services are delivered. As an advocate working with the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development, she was responsible for the delivery of adequate housing services to tenants in private dwellings.
Ms. Ramirez earned her Master of Science in Construction Management from New York University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Affairs from Hunter College.
Ms. Ramirez never forgets her roots! She enjoys giving back to the community, including mentoring students and encouraging them to develop their academic and professional potential. She is a dedicated and committed member of the Hunter College Mentorship Program, where she has had the privilege of working with several junior and senior scholars of diverse backgrounds.
- Class 2 Code and Zoning Representative – NYC DOB
- OSHA 30-Hour Safety & Health Outreach Training Program – TSC Academy
- OSHA 10-Hour Training New York University
- Certificate of Management Alternative to Abandonment, 7A Administrator – HPD
- Construction Management Certificate – Pace University/Regional Alliance for Small Contractors
- OSHA and Your Responsibilities: Understanding Safety – Regional Alliance for Small Contractors