DBIA welcomes Thomas J. Foley, P.E., CCM, DBIA, as Chair of the 2025 National Board of Directors. Foley is Commissioner of the New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) and has long been a passionate advocate for design-build. Under his leadership, DDC has successfully implemented a groundbreaking design-build program for New York City’s municipal projects, transforming how public infrastructure is delivered.
Foley began his term on January 1, 2025, alongside a new slate of board leaders and members. His extensive experience and commitment to collaboration make him a dynamic choice to lead DBIA during this critical time for the industry.
Setting the Standard for Public Sector Design-Build
DDC has become a national example of design-build excellence under Foley’s guidance. New York City’s first-ever design-build project –– a combined garage and community space in Queens –– was completed in just 22 months, cutting the expected timeline in half and saving $12.9 million. This achievement earned DDC multiple accolades in 2024, including DBIA’s National Award of Merit and the I.N.S.P.I.R.E.D. Owner Award.
Other projects in DDC’s pilot program are equally impressive. The $141 million Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center in Brooklyn, for example, is being delivered at least two years faster thanks to design-build. Foley has also championed innovative procurement methods, including progressive design-build, for future resiliency projects.
Reflecting on his new role as Chair, Foley said, “At NYC DDC, we’ve seen firsthand how design-build transforms projects by fostering teamwork and driving efficiency in all five boroughs to deliver vital services for New Yorkers. I’m honored to lead DBIA during this exciting time for our industry and look forward to championing Design-Build Done Right® through initiatives that empower Owners and practitioners to achieve even greater success.”
A Vision for the Future
DBIA’s Executive Director/CEO Lisa Washington, CAE, echoed Foley’s enthusiasm. “Tom’s expertise and passion for Design-Build Done Right® are a tremendous asset to DBIA as we move forward with our 2025-2027 Strategic Goals. With Tom’s leadership and the commitment of our exceptional board, DBIA is well-positioned to advance design-build excellence and continue building on 30 years of success.”
Foley will lead a talented executive team, including:
- Vice Chair: Virginia McAllister, RA, LEED, NCARB, NCIDQ, DBIA; Chief Executive Officer, Iron Horse Architects
- Treasurer: Shannon Gustine, LEED AP, BD+C, DBIA; Regional Vice President, Hensel Phelps
Additionally, DBIA welcomes two new board members:
- Jon Mindrup, AIA, DBIA; Design Management Director, JE Dunn Construction
- Anna Pridmore, Ph.D., P.E., DBIA; Senior Vice President of Strategic Market Development, Structural Technologies
Looking Ahead
DBIA’s National Board of Directors will focus on implementing the organization’s 2025-2027 Strategic Goals, which emphasize collaboration, raising industry standards and expanding education to meet growing demand.
With Foley at the helm, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for DBIA and the design-build community.
Get to Know Tom Foley
Looking Back, Building Forward: Kicking Off 2025 with Lisa Washington and Tom Foley
Design-Build Delivers Podcast, January 2025
From Legislation to Landmark Projects: How the New York City DDC is Doing Design-Build Right
Design-Build Delivers Podcast, October 2024
New York City’s Commitment to Design-Build: A Conversation with Tom Foley
DBIA YouTube, June 2024
