Raquel Diaz, a seasoned construction professional with a track record of more than $2.8 billion in project completions in New York City, has been promoted to lead Gilbane Building Co.’s operations in the Big Apple.

The Providence, Rhode Island-based builder announced Diaz’s promotion in an April 11 news release, citing her extensive experience and leadership in the local construction industry. Prior to joining Gilbane in 2019, Diaz held leadership roles at major New York firms AECOM Tishman and Turner Construction.

An engineer by training, Diaz brings over 18 years of industry experience to her new position. She has overseen major construction efforts across New York, from public sector developments to complex infrastructure improvements.

“New York City has been my home since I moved here at 18,” Diaz said in the release. “It is such an honor to lead Gilbane Building’s operations and to bring excellence to the hospitals, parks, schools, office buildings and community facilities that make New York City great.”

In her new role, Diaz will be responsible for driving Gilbane’s strategic vision and business development in New York City. Her focus will include expanding the firm’s portfolio of projects, enhancing service offerings, and nurturing the internal team’s growth and development. Her leadership will also support Gilbane’s commitment to delivering high-quality, community-oriented projects.

Since joining Gilbane, Diaz has played a key role in advancing the firm’s public sector footprint. She has led initiatives for city agencies and nonprofit partners, including:

• The COVID Centers of Excellence for the NYC Department of Design and Construction.
• The restoration of the historic Orchard Beach Pavilion in partnership with NYC Economic Development Corporation and NYC Parks.
• The Metropolitan Hospital Resiliency initiative with New York City Health + Hospitals and the NYCEDC.
• Renovations of five Carnegie library branches for The New York Public Library.
• New recreation spaces developed with the Hudson River Park Trust.

Throughout her career, Diaz has held a range of roles including MEP project manager, superintendent, estimating and purchasing engineer, senior project manager, project director, and project executive. Her experience spans all phases of project delivery on high-profile builds across the five boroughs.

Diaz's promotion underscores Gilbane’s commitment to leadership diversity and deep local expertise as it continues to grow its presence in one of the country’s most competitive construction markets.

Originally reported by Matthew Thibault in Construction Dive.