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Colia Best
Project Manager at Cushman & Wakefield
Professional Background
Colia Best is an accomplished project manager with extensive expertise in the solar energy sector, specializing in EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contracting for commercial and utility-scale projects. With over 400 megawatts of solar power projects under his belt, Colia has established a solid reputation for delivering high-quality work on time and within budget. His current role involves project management and construction management for projects valued between $25 million and $75 million across various states, including Texas, California, Florida, New Jersey, and Georgia.
His comprehensive approach to project management encompasses a wide range of responsibilities that include bid leveling, design-build procurement, construction oversight, quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and final commissioning of solar energy systems. Colia places great emphasis on effective cost control and change management, which allows him to maximize project efficiency and successful outcomes.
Colia's dedication to managing schedules and budgets has been instrumental in ensuring that the projects he oversees are executed smoothly and meet the highest industry standards. His leadership skills and strong analytical abilities enable him to navigate the complexities of large-scale solar projects with precision and care.
Education and Achievements
Colia Best's educational background is rich and diverse, equipping him with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in project management and solar energy technology. He has completed several notable certifications, including a Certificate in Project Management from the prestigious European Energy Centre (EEC). This training provided him with foundational skills in managing complex projects effectively.
Additionally, Colia has pursued a Certificate in Drone Pilot training at Dart Drones, emphasizing his commitment to staying at the forefront of technology that enhances project oversight and execution. His education in Solar Energy Technology and Battery Storage from Middlesex County College highlights his expertise in renewable energy systems, further solidifying his skill set in managing solar energy projects.
Moreover, Colia received an Associate of Science degree in Computer Engineering from Berkeley College, allowing him to integrate technological innovations into his project management practices. This unique blend of technical knowledge and project management acumen enables him to effectively communicate with both technical teams and stakeholders in the solar industry.
To enhance his project management capabilities further, Colia has also earned a Certificate in Project Management from Google Mobile Academy, which provides a modern understanding of project strategies and methodologies.
Professional Experience
Throughout his career, Colia Best has held several important positions that have shaped his expertise and leadership in the solar industry.
- As a Project Manager at Cushman & Wakefield, he has honed his skills in managing various projects across different sectors, enhancing his versatility and experience in the field.
- Prior to his current role, Colia served as a Solar Project Construction Manager at JLL/Amazon, where he was instrumental in overseeing the construction of large-scale solar projects, ensuring adherence to project timelines and quality standards.
- His earlier experience includes a significant tenure as a Project Manager/Contractor at Game Change Solar, where he cultivated his skills in project execution and stakeholder management.
- Colia's experience also extends to managing solar projects at Supreme Solar, where he focused on coordinating project activities and resources efficiently.
- His career started with PSEG as a Meter Reader before transitioning to Columbia where he gained valuable insight into the solar energy sector.
- Most recently, he worked as a Project Manager at Gcrew Solar, reinforcing his project management skills while leading multiple solar initiatives.
Notable Achievements
Colia Best's accomplishments in the solar energy domain are noteworthy. With over 400 MW of projects successfully delivered, he has made significant contributions to renewable energy infrastructure across several key states. His role in managing multimillion-dollar projects has further advanced his reputation as a leader in solar energy project management.
By implementing rigorous cost control measures, Colia has effectively managed budgets across his projects, ensuring efficient resource allocation and minimal financial discrepancies. His work in quality assurance and project commissioning has received accolades for exceeding industry standards, securing the trust of clients and stakeholders alike.
Colia's diverse educational background and continuous pursuit of knowledge through certifications underscore his commitment to professional development and industry advancement. His ability to merge project management principles with cutting-edge solar energy technologies positions him as a pivotal figure in the ongoing transition towards sustainable energy solutions.
Conclusion
With a proven track record in project management within the solar energy sector, Colia Best exemplifies the skills and expertise necessary to drive successful solar initiatives. His combined experience, education, and passion for renewable energy make him a valuable asset in an ever-evolving industry.
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