Ken Colao is a recognized leader and entrepreneur in the construction industry with more than 35 years of experience as principal of several major firms, completing more than $5 billion of building construction.
An engineer with a B.S.C.E. degree from NJIT, Ken is a member of the university’s Board of Overseers and chairs the Board of Advisors for the Hillier College of Architecture and Design. He serves on the Board of Governors for the New York Building Congress, is an active member of YPO and holds positions at several charitable organizations.
Ken was named EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® for the New York Region, in the Real Estate, Construction and Hospitality category in 2017. EY’s global program recognizes individuals who excel in innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities.
As Founder, President and CEO of CNY, Ken manages an innovative forward-thinking Manhattan-based company that has led the way for “open shop” construction for large-scale development. His role is as thought leader and his mission is to create value, challenge the norm and lead the delivery of CNY’s proven best practices and expertise. CNY provides CMAR and design assist services with a collaborative, open forum management style. The company differentiates itself through leadership, innovation and delivery methods. The firm was named by ENR as Contractor of the Year, among other notable awards and recognitions.
