Archived site
baso
baso aims to transform the development paradigm from one imposed on communities to one created with them.
Our values
We're grounded in values that catapult our mission and approach.
Expertise
We bring deep knowledge of construction and development to every project giving clients a confident, experienced partner.
Clarity
We make complex decisions easy to understand. Clients always know where their project stands, what it costs, and what comes next.
Trust
We're in it for the long haul. We build transparent, accountable relationships that last from the first meeting through final turnover.
Our team
Our project managers are deeply rooted in the communities they serve bringing experience, empathy, and equity to every engagement.
Claudette Soto
President
Cultivator of untapped potential with decades of experience in construction management, specializing in serving clients and communities of color through equitable procurement and impactful development.
Amador Contreras
Principal
Seasoned structural engineer with decades of experience spanning design, forensics, evaluations and technical expertise across healthcare, education, commercial, residential sectors and more.
Paulina Reyes-Sanchez
Assistant Project Manager
Multifaceted professional and educator with a strong analytical and mathematical background, skilled in comprehensive project management support, focusing on client engagement and problem-solving.
Ken Battle
Project Executive
Expert professional skilled in project management, facility operations, and union trades, adept in overseeing diverse projects, resolving issues with precision and enduring stakeholder alignment plus client engagement.
Yoetzin Diaz
Senior Project Manager
Cutting edge project manager with a proven track record of overseeing diverse portfolios, fostering collaborative relationships, and driving innovative solutions for construction and technology firms.
Toni Lopez
Assistant Project Manager
Dynamic project manager and experienced civil engineer, knowledgable in design software, skilled in collaborating with stakeholders, and efficient in managing budgets, schedules and resources.
Our impact
We see each project as a chance to make a difference no matter the size or budget.
In the press
We're grateful to our peers and the industry for their recognition.
Our story
baso was founded in 2016 by Claudette Soto, a seasoned architect and structural engineer born and raised in Gage Park, Chicago.
Too many developments in our city happen to communities rather than with them. Communities of color are often the last to have a say or are ignored altogether. Claudette Soto launched baso in 2016 to change that, building a firm focused on quality, equity-led management that empowers project owners to create lasting community wealth.
Claudette is a trained architect and structural engineer who has also served as a consultant to the City of Chicago's Department of Buildings giving her firsthand knowledge of permitting, zoning, and what it takes to move a project through the system. She brings decades of technical and advocacy experience to every engagement.
Since its founding, baso has grown into a recognized regional leader securing high-profile projects, attracting top talent, and earning coverage from Univision Chicago, Hispanic Executive, TEDxIIT, and more.
Looking ahead, baso will continue to expand its services and deepen its partnerships delivering projects that bring the best in design and construction to Chicago's neighborhoods and beyond.
