Sam McTavey, a graduate of the M.S. in Construction Administration program at Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS), now plays a crucial role in shaping the urban landscape of NYC.
In a conversation with SPS, Sam discussed his role in significant initiatives like the redevelopment of LaGuardia Airport to innovative projects such as the NYC DDC Borough-Based Jails Program, and how he navigates the complexities of construction regulations in New York City. Learn more about Sam’s career highlights and his takeaways from the Construction Administration program.
My Current Role
I am currently a senior project manager specializing in environmental compliance on construction and design projects in New York City. The job requires communications with all project team members about the specifics of environmental regulations and their impacts to specific scopes of work. These conversations can take place during active construction, or as part of the design process and scope development in pre-construction.
Part of the job is to develop environmental management plans and work to obtain the necessary regulatory permits for construction or to proceed. With plans and permits in place, the role requires continued management to ensure compliance throughout construction. Understanding where in the construction process my intervention takes place has helped to focus my role on what the clients need in that moment to best enhance their project goals.
Among the projects I am involved with are:
- Laguardia Airport Redevelopment: Delta New Terminal C Program
- LaGuardia Airport, LGA Fuel: Jet Fuel Transmission Line Project
- JFK Airport Redevelopment:
- Delta Phase 2.5 Redevelopment at Terminal 4
- New Terminal 6
- New Terminal One
- Ground Transportation Center
- NYC DDC Borough-Based Jails Program—Brooklyn Site
- Newark Airport—Amex Lounge Extension at Terminal A
My M.S. in Construction Administration Takeaways
As an individual who works with hundreds of people in the construction industry, the program has accelerated my comprehension of how construction projects and programs are assembled and implemented. It has broadened my body of knowledge more than expected and has been a fantastic experience.
I have found myself learning about a new contract structure or scheduling technique one night during class, and then putting it to work the very next day. I am a part-time student, so it’s taken me a little while to get through the program. However, I see this time commitment as a benefit, as I have met so many great peers and practitioners through the program.
My Dream NYC Project
New York City offers so many amazing opportunities, so it is challenging to narrow it down to just one. Ideally, I will continue to work on projects that involve improving living in NYC and the surrounding tristate area.
I’ve learned that the right people who are focused and work together can deliver any project. Be it infrastructure improvements, world-class research facilities, wind farm development, or reinventing how we use commercial and residential space, I am up for the challenge of being part of a team that is changing how we experience and enjoy the buildings and spaces we enjoy every day.
About the Program
Columbia’s Master of Science in Construction Administration program prepares graduates for a variety of careers at the forefront of construction and project leadership. Graduates develop rewarding careers with some of the world’s most respected architecture, engineering, and construction firms, entrusted with delivering some of the most impactful projects of our time.
The fall 2025 application deadline for the M.S. in Construction Administration program is June 1. Learn more about the program here.
