We are pleased to announce that Marilyn Zajac has joined Paladino’s consulting team. Marilyn’s early career in the green building industry has allowed her to collaborate with clients and projects teams to deliver efficient, reliable, economic, and sustained energy performance strategies while promoting health, comfort, and cost savings for end-users and communities.

Marilyn’s comprehensive background in the technical aspects of all LEED programs and versions in both the submission and the review process has led her to manage 40+ multi-million-dollar LEED projects.

Join us in getting to know more about Marilyn…

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Tell us about your background and what led you to Paladino.

I originally studied meteorology at Florida Tech because I wanted to do climate change research. Instead of researching the effects of climate change, I wanted my career to be actively fighting the impacts of climate change, so I changed my major to Sustainability Studies with a concentration in engineering and technology.

After college, I started my career in the green building industry in D.C. and it seemed to fit all of my career passions – working with people and numbers to create a more sustainable world.

What led me to Paladino was their history and early involvement in the green building industry as well as the diversity of services they offer.

Where do you find inspiration in your work?

Being able to change people’s perspective on going green by proving that most sustainable solutions are also economically beneficial.

What direction do you think green building is headed? Where do you see the industry in ten years?

Currently very rampant in larger urban cities, I believe the green building industry will spread into more suburban developments driven by necessity.

What role does sustainability play in your life outside work? What does it mean to you?

Growing up spending a lot of time outdoors, I appreciate the resources nature provides. Having this respect for nature generates small daily habits that I believe make a big difference.

What is one positive impact you feel sustainability will support in the world?

Saving the rare beauties of nature like coral reefs, mountains, and forests for future generations to explore.

What do you do in your leisure time?

Anything active and outside – hiking, biking, rollerblading, kayaking, camping, skiing, fishing, snorkeling, traveling. If I haven’t done it yet, it’s probably on my list of things to try. I also enjoy a good competition whether it be volleyball, tennis, golf, or something more casual such as game night or trivia.

What are three things you can’t live without?

Family, Friends, and Food.

What are you most proud of?

Pursuing my dreams, traveling the world, creating a sustainable lifestyle, and having a positive impact on others.

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Is there anything else that you’d like to know about Marilyn? Ask away in the comments section below!

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