2020 40 Under 40: Marie Curatolo, CEM, 30

Project Manager, ESD, Chicago; MS Sustainable Business Leadership, Lund University, Sweden

By Chris Vavra and Amara Rozgus May 14, 2020

Professions don’t always take a straight path. Curatolo found a good fit for her science background and leadership aspirations in the field of building energy management. She had to learn how energy is used in existing buildings and how it can be optimized so the buildings run as efficiently as possible. For building owners and operators, this means reducing their energy operating costs and their carbon footprint. Curatolo identifies and implements opportunities for ESD’s clients who aim to save money and reduce their carbon footprints. She always makes sure their needs, goals and timelines are achieved in the most productive manner. She is passionate about bringing efficiency and sustainability to the field of building science. She joined ESD as a project manager after working in the energy management field for several building portfolios spanning hundreds of properties. Before her work with commercial buildings, Curatolo worked for a nonprofit supporting local government energy-efficiency initiatives and a sustainability consulting firm advising on resource conservation projects. She’s passionate about spreading awareness of career paths in energy management and in the built environment in general, for students and early-career professionals. One of her missions is to help future sustainability professionals connect their interests and talents to the architecture, engineering and construction industry. A personal passion is outdoor activities, especially along Chicago’s lakefront. In January 2020, after months of training after a persistent illness, she crossed the finish line of a half-marathon. When not running or rollerblading, Curatolo enjoys boxing, swimming, yoga and serving on the auxiliary board at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. She is a regular at the local library and enjoys reading.


Author Bio: Chris Vavra, Associate Editor, and Amara Rozgus, Editor-in-Chief