The History of Phil Neto Construction (PNC)
Phil Neto Construction (PNC) was founded in 1983 by Phil Neto and his wife, Aida, after Phil immigrated to the United States from Portugal, in 1968. He arrived with a strong desire to pursue the American Dream and began his career in the construction industry as a bricklayer. Over the years, he honed his skills, gaining invaluable experience that would later serve as the foundation for PNC.
From the beginning, Phil and Aida’s vision for the company was not just about building a successful business, but about creating a lasting legacy for their children. This vision laid the unshakable foundation of PNC, which became a cornerstone of the family’s future.
As their children—Christopher, Regina, and Cynthia—grew, Phil and Aida instilled the importance of the family business by involving them in the work. The children were expected to contribute to the company by working after school and during their free time, helping to shape the future of the business.
As adults, Christopher, Regina, and Cynthia continued to work within PNC, solidifying their roles and commitment to the family legacy. By the time Phil and Aida were ready to step back, they did so with complete confidence, knowing their children were well-prepared to lead the business and ensure its continued growth for generations to come.
Chris Neto won Subcontractor of the Year (NJSA) in November 2025.
Meet Our Leadership
Chris Neto serves as the President, overseeing the development & implementation of PNC’s strategic business plan, evaluating the company’s risks/liabilities, and driving overall profitability & growth. Chris has over 25 years of experience in the construction industry (both field & management) and maintains his membership in the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 825. Chris holds an undergraduate degree from Montclair State University, maintains Supervisor Site Safety Training (SST) and HAZWOPER 40 certifications. Chris also sits on the Corporate Advisory Board Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey.
Gina Esa, Vice President of Phil Neto Construction, brings over 30 years of experience to the construction industry. She oversees the company’s internal operations. Gina is passionate about empowering women in the field. She has been recognized as one of the Top Leading Women Entrepreneurs in 2019 and one of the Top Women in NYC Real Estate in 2016. Actively involved in several industry organizations, including the Women Builders Council, Professional Women in Construction, and as an active board member of NJSA, Gina is committed to giving back to her community through roles on various boards and committees. A proud mother of two daughters who have broken barriers in male-dominated fields, Gina encourages them to pursue their passions.
Cynthia St. Clair serves as the Vice President of Safety at Phil Neto Construction, where she is responsible for ensuring the company’s safety compliance, implementing safety initiatives and training, and developing job-specific safety plans. Under her leadership, the company’s Experience Modification Rate (EMR) has decreased significantly, enhancing Phil Neto Construction’s reputation as a contractor with a strong safety record. Her efforts were instrumental in helping PNC earn a prestigious safety award in 2024, further solidifying its standing as a top choice for clients seeking contractors with a proven commitment to safety. Cynthia holds an undergraduate degree from New York University (NYU) and is an active member of the New Jersey Subcontractors Association (NJSA). She is also a proud mother of one.
Phil Neto Construction Today
Phil Neto Construction is a family-owned and operated business that has been a trusted name in the construction industry for over 40 years. Founded by our parents, the company was built on a strong foundation of hard work, integrity, and a commitment to quality craftsmanship. Today, the next generation—siblings Christopher, Regina, and Cynthia—carry forward that same legacy, taking ownership of the business with a shared vision for continued growth and success.
Having grown up alongside the business, we are deeply committed to maintaining the “family business” mindset that has been a hallmark of Phil Neto Construction since its inception. We believe that fostering a close-knit, supportive work environment is essential, which is why we prioritize our employees, treating them like an extension of our family. Their well-being and safety are at the forefront of everything we do, ensuring that our team is not only productive but also empowered and supported in their roles.
As we look to the future, our focus remains on sustaining and expanding the company, while staying true to the values that have guided us from the very beginning. We are dedicated to creating a lasting legacy—one that will provide opportunities for future generations to thrive. Our goal is to continue building a company that stands for excellence, safety, and growth, with a commitment to the employees and communities that have helped us get to where we are today.
What Sets Phil Neto Construction Apart
Phil Neto Construction has decades of experience as a subcontractor, and members of our team have a wealth of experience in the construction management arena as well.
From concrete pouring to repair, planning to completion, our team is here to help. We have a wealth of knowledge and expertise across the entire project completion process, which is responsible for our successful track record across projects that vary in scope and span a multitude of industries.
What does that mean for our clients? You can rest assured that when you work with us, you’ll know you’re working with the right company for your commercial construction project.
A Message from Our Phil Neto Construction Team’s Leadership
“We’re happy and appreciative to be celebrating 40+ years of business here at Phil Neto Construction (PNC).
Under my leadership, it’s a priority that I maintain the same level of business intimacy while diversifying my organization to foster new partnerships and to further strengthen our existing relationships that have been key to the successful operation of my family business.
I’m grateful for my team members & customers, thank you, and look forward to continued success and growth through harmonious partnerships.”
– Chris Neto
Our Commitment to Family
PNC began as a family business, and we continue that way to this day.
We remain focused on providing a true family-like environment for both our valued employees and phenomenal Phil Neto Construction customers.
Our owners and employees are dedicated to building solid partnerships with their clients. And that commitment is evident in our loyal returning customers and the family members and loved ones they refer to PNC.
In fact, PNC’s longest-lasting business relationships have shared values, goals, and immense synergy. And that delivers results greater than the sum of their parts.
Our Commitment to Community
At Phil Neto Construction, we are passionate about our communities and take action on that commitment each day.
Our organization has received the Portugal Culture Award and dedicated it to Phil Neto and the family. In addition, we make donations to Our Lady of Fatima Church in Elizabeth, New Jersey. We also donate to Essex County political parties and to Copperman Barnabas Medical Center In Livingston, NJ.
And we’re committed to the safety of our community, making donations to various police and fire departments, including Essex County Police and Newark Fire Department.
So we’re not only building our communities, we’re helping them thrive.
Facts & Figures
In 2024 alone, Phil Neto Construction was awarded over 20 new contracts across a variety of project types, showcasing our continued growth and industry leadership. We also successfully completed more than 25 projects, each reflecting our commitment to quality craftsmanship, timely delivery, and client satisfaction.
Our team has demonstrated exceptional expertise and dedication. Now that’s something to celebrate as we continue building a legacy of excellence!
Our Commitment to Safety
PNC is committed to safety. Our safety certifications include OSHA 10/30, OSHA 100, and HAZWOPER 40.
PNC employees have access to continuing education and development courses throughout the year. This ensures every member of the Phil Neto Construction team stays safe and that our practices keep others safe as well.
In 2024 & 2025, PNC received the Excellence in Safety Award from the New Jersey Subcontractors Association. Construction is a dangerous industry, and the safety of our employees is a top priority. At Phil Neto, we don’t just speak about our commitment to safety, we show it – through achieving multiple certifications and providing continued education for our team.