Andis Woodlief, ’10SPS, Construction Administration, has been named the new Board Member and Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at the Association of Medical Facility Professionals (AMFP) at the NYC Chapter. Andis has over 20 years of experience in the construction industry, specifically with experience supporting the development of minority and women led and owned businesses.
How does the field of Construction Administration come up in your new position as Board Member and Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at AMFP?
At the Association of Medical Facility Professionals (AMFP), my role is to increase the diversity of our individual members and the membership of companies owned by women and people of color. This dovetails perfectly with my day job as my role at Turner Surety & Insurance Brokerage, Inc. (TSIB) is to focus on the growth and development of certified minority and women owned businesses, as well as assist the companies that hire them via our Diversity Assured Program.
What advice would you give current students who are considering a similar career path to yours?
Take advantage of the amazing Columbia alumni network! I met our AMFP student advocate on our young professionals committee when she reached out via the network. Sara Suzuki, our Program Facilitator, has been a great asset to our Construction Administration program and my committee as well.
Tell us about your experience in the Construction Administration program—what did you find most valuable about the program, and are you applying what you learned from the program in your work?
From the beginning, I have been amazed by the wealth of experience and success of the program’s alumni, staff and students. I remain in contact with many of the students I studied with. The Columbia community is one of its greatest assets. I also rely on my education every day in order to interface with trade partners.
Understanding the risks and concerns involved within the construction process also helps me create solutions for stakeholders.
