From dreaming of being a writer when she was younger, starting her career at the union construction company, to now being the Comptroller for Finegold Alexander, Senior Associate Josie Catino has learned and experienced a lot in her career. For March's Staff Spotlight, we sat down with Josie to learn about her highlights at the firm (like the old Gingerbread Competition and her favorite hobbies of playing in poker tournaments and decorating cakes. Read her Q&A below!

Q: What did you want to be when you were younger?

I’m an avid reader and always dreamt of becoming a writer.  I’ve written some essays and poetry but haven’t attempted a best seller.  My favorite novels are The Good Earth by Pearl Buck and She’s Come Undone by Wally Lamb.

Q: If you could give advice to a young professional beginning their career what would you say?

I would say hard work and willingness to learn are the keys to a successful career. Put in effort and follow through and learn from others that have experienced what you is challenging you.

Q: What inspired you to be involved in the AEC industry?

I started out in the construction industry, working for a Boston-based Union construction company.  I loved seeing projects grow from the architectural plans to reality so when I returned to the workforce from having a child, I happily accepted a position in the accounting department of a local architecture firm.

Q: What have been some of your career highlights so far?

I’ve been with Finegold Alexander for almost 22 years, starting as an accounting coordinator.  I am grateful to have been promoted to Associate, Senior Associate and Comptroller over the many years here at the firm.

A fun highlight was working on the Gingerbread Competitions over the years.  We constructed local landmarks like The Hatch Shell and the Old North Church as well as some of our projects.

Q: What have been some of your proudest achievements so far outside of work?

I have enjoyed playing poker as a hobby for many, many years and have been quite successful. The last time I visited Las Vegas, I played in a tournament with over 100 players, and I came in first place for a $10,000 prize.

In my spare time I enjoy cake decorating. I’ve created many over the years, and here are a few fun ones:

Of course, my greatest achievement is being a mom to my wonderful son Evan. Evan is a chorus teacher at Saugus Middle/High School as well as being a talented musician and a joy in my life.