Queens Business Leader Sylvia Cothia: Building Community Through HVAC Excellence and Women’s Empowerment
Local Entrepreneur Combines Technical Expertise with Mission to Support Women in Construction
Sylvia Cothia has built more than just a successful HVAC company in Queens. She’s created a platform for community service and women’s empowerment that extends far beyond heating and cooling systems.
As co-founder of Jetway, a certified woman-owned HVAC company established in 2014, Cothia has navigated the challenges of running a technical services business while maintaining a steadfast commitment to her community. Her journey reflects the resilience required of minority and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs), particularly through obstacles like the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We survived through the support of organizations like the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation and the Queens Chamber of Commerce,” Cothia reflects on the company’s growth trajectory. That support, combined with Jetway’s certifications as a Women’s Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE), has positioned the company as a trusted provider in the borough and beyond.
Green Energy and Community Service
Jetway distinguishes itself through its dual focus on environmental sustainability and community accessibility. The company specializes in green energy solutions while offering discounted services to seniors and low-income families, a business model that prioritizes community welfare alongside profitability.
Cothia’s approach to business development emphasizes the importance of networking, proper certification, and maintaining a positive attitude even when facing the complexities of government contracts and competitive bidding processes. Her success demonstrates how local support and strategic partnerships can help MWBEs thrive in technical industries traditionally dominated by larger firms.
Empowering Women Through Positive Woman United
Beyond her HVAC enterprise, Cothia founded Positive Woman United, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women in construction and advancing housing initiatives. The organization represents her broader vision of creating pathways for women in male-dominated industries while addressing community housing needs.
Recent recognition of Cothia’s work came at an event at Resorts World, where she was honored for her contributions through Positive Woman United. Her nonprofit activities have also taken her to Texas, where she participated in programs supporting women in the construction trades.
Jetway’s community impact extends to workforce development initiatives and strategic partnerships with utility companies, creating training opportunities while expanding the company’s service capabilities.
Active Community Leadership
Cothia’s commitment to Queens extends to civic engagement. She has served on Community Board 13 since 2019, participating in the Economic Development Committee where she works to connect business resources with community needs. Despite the challenges of balancing board responsibilities with business demands, she remains dedicated to improving economic opportunities in her district.
As Jetway continues to grow and Positive Woman United expands its reach, Cothia exemplifies how MWBE businesses can serve as catalysts for community development. Her story illustrates that success in business and success in community building are not separate pursuits. They’re complementary missions that strengthen both enterprises and neighborhoods.
For more information about Jetway’s services or Positive Woman United’s programs, community members and potential partners can connect through the organizations’ ongoing initiatives in Queens and beyond.
