Sheila Nale: Transforming Communities Through Leadership and Innovation

Sheila Nale’s journey in the land development industry exemplifies her commitment to excellence, innovation, and empowerment. With more than 15 years of experience transforming Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia’s urban landscapes, Sheila has earned her spot in the Washington Business Journal’s 2025 class of 40 Under 40 for her profound contributions to the industry and her community.

Professional Accomplishments

Since beginning her career in the Washington, DC region in 2008, Sheila has become a trailblazer in the land development sector. Her expertise spans site investigation, due diligence, stormwater management, roadway design, and adaptive reuse. She has been instrumental in delivering over 18,500 residential units across the region, including notable projects like The Waycroft-Ballston, Element 28 Bethesda, and Union Market Terminal.

Sheila’s work isn’t just about meeting housing demands—it’s about building community. Her passion for smart, impactful developments has led her to partner on multifaceted, award-winning projects. Highlights of her achievements include:

• The Waycroft, Arlington, VA –2020 NAIOP Northern Virginia Award of Excellence.
• The Crest at Skyland Town Center, Washington, DC –2021 CoStar Impact Award for Best New Multifamily Development.
• Maren at Capitol Riverfront, Washington, DC – Multiple awards, including the 2022 MFE Merit Award and 2021 NAHB Pillars of the Industry Award for Best High-Rise Apartment Community.

Sheila’s recent milestone as a partner at Bohler reflects her steadfast leadership and proven track record in the field.

Champion for Women and Community

As a founding member of Bohler’s Women’s Professional Network Leadership Council, Sheila is passionate about creating pathways for women in the engineering and development industries. Under her leadership, Bohler has seen a 70% increase in female engineers and a 300% increase in women engineering managers, driving meaningful change for the industry’s future.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Sheila dedicates herself to community impact. As the 2024 Host Committee Chair for Habitat for Humanity DC-NOVA’s Women Build campaign, Sheila has helped raise over $830,000 for affordable housing initiatives. She has also participated in revitalization projects through DCBIA Community Improvement Day, Bread for the City, and St. Maria’s Meals.

A Voice for the Industry

Sheila actively engages in industry thought leadership through her involvement with organizations like ULI, NAIOP, and CREW. She regularly leads discussions on leadership, work-life balance, and diversity, equity, and inclusion through ULI’s Women’s Leadership Initiative. Her work has made her a sought-after expert and mentor for young professionals navigating the challenges of land development.

Life in the Region

A fitness enthusiast, Sheila finds balance outside of work by training at DMV Iron Gym, running on the W&OD trails, and participating in bodybuilding competitions. She loves connecting with clients and colleagues at Dominion Wine & Beer and Northside Social, fostering relationships in comfortable, community-driven settings.

Sheila’s Perspective on Leadership

Navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry has been one of Sheila’s most defining experiences. She credits her mentors, both male and female, with empowering her to lead with confidence and authenticity. Sheila is driven by the opportunity to create meaningful places that foster community and connection—projects that people call home or use to gather, thrive, and enjoy.

As a leader, advocate, and innovator, Sheila Nale continues to transform the Greater Washington region, ensuring a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Read her spotlight in the WBJ here.