Costich Engineering, Land Surveying & Landscape Architecture, D.P.C.

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For nearly five decades and hundreds of projects each year, Costich Engineering, Land Surveying & Landscape Architecture delivers expertise and reliability across land surveying, civil engineering, landscape architecture, and environmental services. Now in its third generation of family leadership, the firm expands opportunities for women in technical fields. The newly launched Environmental Services department is led by a wetland biologist from the DEC and Army Corps, bringing regulatory expertise in wetland delineation and permitting. Recent female graduates are gaining field experience in topographic and boundary surveys, construction staking, and stormwater inspection, shaping the next generation of women in engineering and design.

Number of Years in Business: 47

Female Company Head: Sarah J. Costich, R.L.A., President & CEO

What does it mean to you to be a women-owned business?

Our firm, founded in 1977, was led for decades by Costich men — my grandfather, uncle, and father. From a young age, I was determined to prove I could lead with excellence, regardless of gender, in this male-dominated profession. Today, I’m proud to carry forward our legacy of hard work and integrity while bringing my own vision for growth and inclusion. It means showing other women — and my own kids — that leadership has no limits. With passion, drive and commitment, anything is possible.

What challenges have you faced as a women-owned business?

Early at Costich, I felt compelled to work harder to prove I could lead and deliver — especially following the men who came before me. The pressure was constant: demonstrate technical expertise and leadership in an industry where women remain underrepresented. Today, I honor the principles that built our firm — hard work, execution and seeing projects through — while bringing fresh energy and purpose to leadership. I’m driven to show the next generation that excellence knows no gender.

How do you support women in your business and community?

I create an environment where women feel empowered to lead, innovate, and grow. Our firm is expanding, hiring more women as Land Surveyors, Environmental Engineers, and field inspectors. In the community, I actively participate in organizations promoting women in STEM and leadership. Visibility matters — so I prioritize sharing my journey and connecting with peers and young women considering careers in Civil Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, and related fields.

What goals do you have for your business for the coming year?

Our primary goal is strategic growth while maintaining the quality and integrity that defines Costich Engineering. We’ve expanded services in site design and land surveying, invested in technology for efficiency and accuracy, and strengthened our team through professional development and recruitment. Another key goal is deepening our community impact — partnering on projects that enhance infrastructure and sustainability in Rochester. Growth with purpose drives everything we do.

What recent accomplishments are you most proud of?

Our firm is growing and planning strategically for the future. We’ve invested in technology and talent to strengthen our capabilities, and one exciting milestone is we now have more women in the office than ever before! Personally, this fall I became a North American Champion for the International Lightning Class and received the Swanson Women’s Sailor Award. Named after two-time Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year Jody Swanson, the award celebrates women who embody excellence in competitive sailing.

This profile is part of our Best Women-Owned Businesses for 2025. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at rbj.net.