Her Story
About Diana
Diana Cristiano, M.S., is a Senior Client Project Manager and Area Leader for Green Infrastructure in New York City with approximately 18 years of experience in environmental science, arboriculture, and construction management. She currently leads major green infrastructure initiatives at Arcadis, overseeing multidisciplinary teams, construction management services, and complex urban forestry programs involving street tree planting, heritage tree preservation, sidewalk reconstruction, and large-scale environmental infrastructure projects. Throughout her career, she has successfully managed programs for municipal and federal agencies while fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders to deliver sustainable solutions that strengthen urban environments.
Diana began her career after earning both a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and a Master of Science in Environmental Science from Adelphi University. Her early experience included environmental sampling, invasive species management, canopy science, and health and safety coordination with state and federal agencies, including the United States Department of Agriculture. She later transitioned into private-sector leadership, where she expanded her expertise in program management, arboriculture, environmental project management, and construction oversight. A dedicated advocate for professional development, she holds specialized industry certifications, including the ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ), and has built a reputation for combining technical expertise with strategic leadership to successfully manage large-scale environmental programs. Recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field, Cristiano has been honored CMAA NY NJ Project of the Year Award ($10-60 Million Category) for excellence in project delivery for construction management.
Diana is a former Tree Climber and NYS Women's Tree Climbing Champion. She also serves as a longtime sponsor of the Women's Tree Climbing Workshop, supporting education and mentorship for women pursuing careers in arboriculture and environmental sciences. Guided by the values of grit, perseverance, collaboration, and continuous learning, Cristiano is passionate about advancing sustainable green infrastructure, mentoring future leaders, and educating communities about the long-term environmental and social benefits of urban forestry.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Diana
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the grit that my grandparents instilled in me from a young age and to never giving up, regardless of the obstacles I face. I have always surrounded myself with people I can learn from, recognizing the value of mentorship and the importance of building meaningful professional relationships. Creating a strong working community has been critical to the success.
One of the most influential lessons I carry with me is my grandfather's saying, "The squeaky wheel gets the oil." It taught me the importance of speaking up, advocating for myself, and ensuring that my voice is heard. As a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, this mindset has helped me build confidence, create opportunities, and continue growing as both a leader and professional.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the most valuable pieces of career advice I have ever received came from my grandfather, who always reminded me that "the squeaky wheel gets the oil." That lesson taught me the importance of advocating for myself, communicating my ideas with confidence, and not being afraid to speak up when I know I can make a positive contribution.
I have also benefited from mentors who invested time in helping me grow professionally. Their guidance reinforced that success comes from continuously learning, asking questions, building strong relationships, and taking initiative rather than waiting for opportunities to come to me.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to take a deep breath, remain focused on their goals, and never stop learning. Confidence comes from preparation, experience, and believing in your own abilities, so continue building your knowledge and trust the value you bring.
If you ever find yourself being underestimated or facing bias in a STEM field, recognize it for what it is and don't allow it to define your potential. Instead, use it as motivation to work smarter, demonstrate your capabilities, and continue moving forward with confidence and determination.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges facing our field is climate change and the uncertainty surrounding long-term funding for environmental and green infrastructure programs. These factors make it increasingly important to plan strategically and advocate for sustainable investments that will benefit future generations.
At the same time, I believe there is an incredible opportunity to educate communities about the value of trees and green infrastructure. By restoring people's sense of wonder and helping them understand the long-term environmental and social benefits of these programs, we can build stronger public support and create more resilient, sustainable communities.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me most are grit, perseverance, mentorship, collaboration, and the confidence to advocate for myself and others. I believe meaningful accomplishments come from working hard, continuing to learn, and building strong relationships with the people around me.
I also value supporting others, encouraging collaboration, and creating environments where every voice has the opportunity to be heard. These principles have shaped both my leadership style and my commitment to helping teams and communities succeed together.
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