Blueprints for Success:
Women Entrepreneurs in Design and Construction
Tiffany Cartier, Cartier Structural Design
Jessica Mularski, Renova Lighting Systems
Karin Patriquin, Patriquin Architects
Join this dynamic breakout session featuring three inspiring women who have forged their own paths as business owners in design and construction. From engineering and architecture to lighting manufacturing and general contracting, these trailblazers will share their journeys, motivations, and lessons learned. Gain practical insights on navigating challenges, building networks, and seizing opportunities in a competitive industry. Whether you are contemplating entrepreneurship or seeking to expand your current career path, this session will empower you to turn your vision into reality. Do not miss this opportunity to learn from leaders who are redefining the future of the built environment.
About Tiffany
Tiffany Cartier, PE is the Founder and Principal of Cartier Structural Design. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and Master’s degree in Structural Engineering from the University of Hartford. In 2009, her career as a structural engineer began in the heavy civil, transportation, and federal defense sectors. In 2015, Cartier discovered her passion for building structures while working with the e2 Engineers structural engineering firm based in New London, CT. With a passion for designing and renovating the built environment, she specializes in collaborating with owners, designers, and builders to create innovative, sustainable, and functional structures. Her expertise spans across a wide range of projects, from residential to commercial developments, where her problem-solving skills and commitment to quality ensure each project meets both technical and aesthetic goals. Cartier is driven by the opportunity to make a positive impact on the spaces people live and work in, fostering strong partnerships throughout every phase of design and construction.
About Jessica
Jessica Mularski is the President and majority owner of Renova Lighting Systems, a commercial lighting manufacturer based in Warwick, RI. With a degree in Finance from Fairfield University's Dolan School of Business, Mularski brings a dynamic background in sales, graphic design, marketing, and public relations to her leadership role. Her multidisciplinary expertise drives innovation and growth at Renova, as the company continues to deliver high-quality lighting solutions to the construction and design industries. Her dedication to fostering collaboration and excellence sets the tone for Renova's success.
About Karin
Founder and President of Patriquin Architects, Karin Patriquin is a dedicated professional who brings a wealth of experience and skill to each project. As firm principal, she directs the firm’s overall strategies and leads the design effort of all projects in the office. Strongly believing in the power of excellent design, she strives to bring innovation and sustainability to all the firm’s projects. Patriquin is a graduate of the University of Waterloo and McGill University, with advanced studies at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate and McGill’s School of Management. After ten years of international architectural experience, notably at HLW International (New York, NY) and Pelli Clarke Pelli (New Haven, CT), she worked as a solo practitioner for 7 years, then established Patriquin Architects in New Haven in 2010, with a focus on community architecture and advanced sustainable design and construction practices. A lifelong love of music paved the way for her award-winning career in architecture. Patriquin first received her Bachelor’s degree in Music from McGill University and worked as a professional musician before deciding to participate in the six-year cooperative program for environmental studies and architecture at the University of Waterloo. Fostering a deep connection to her crafts, it was her desire to be part of a larger team and to create buildings that speak, inspire, and assemble people. With a major focus on sustainability, she continues to emphasize environmental accountability, driving her to always consider and create responsible buildings that are efficient, work with minimal energy, and are resilient.