Klodian Pepaj was born in Tamare, a picturesque village in Malesi e Madhe, Albania. On January 1st, 2000, his family arrived in the U.S., stepping into a new century and a radically different life. At just 11 years old, he found himself in the Bronx, navigating a rough neighborhood, a new language, and the heavy weight of responsibility.
“My family borrowed almost $40,000 to get us here” Klodian recalls. “We didn’t speak English, and money was less than non-existent. I had to learn fast — not just the language, but how to survive and help my family. I became the household translator before I even hit my teens.”
At age 14, the family moved to Manhattan’s Upper East Side — a shift Klodian describes as “crucial” changing everything economically, socially, and psychologically. That environment, combined with the relentless work ethic instilled by his parents, laid the foundation for a future few could predict.
Engineering became the natural path. Inspired by his father’s background in geometrics engineering and decades in construction, Klodian found a field that matched both his interests and abilities. But more than that, he always envisioned starting something of his own.
That vision came to life during the COVID-19 shutdown. “Everyone was starting from scratch,” he says. “It felt like a level playing field — the perfect time to build.”
What emerged was VERSAI — a company that offers construction, engineering, architecture, and real estate services under one roof.
“What sets us apart is simple: we eliminate delays and miscommunication. Our drawings and specifications are some of the best in the city, which means fewer surprises during construction. We save clients time and money because we manage everything — or help coordinate even if we’re only handling one piece.”
His company’s integrated approach has made a major impact. One recent project in Staten Island speaks volumes. A man fleeing police had crashed into a small building, causing enough damage that the Department of Buildings issued a vacate order. The elderly owners were stuck between an absent engineer, an overpriced architect, and a questionable contractor.
“We stepped in, redesigned the plans, performed structural repairs, and finished the work for a quarter of the original cost,” Klodian says. “They paid out of pocket. If insurance never comes through, at least they’re not financially ruined — and they get their home back.”
Klodian’s rise has been anything but easy. Becoming a licensed professional engineer required a 4-year degree, an 8-hour exam, a master’s (earned through night classes), years of signed work experience under PEs, and another 8-hour final exam — all while holding a full-time job and managing family responsibilities. During this time, he also earned his real estate license and became an associate architect.
“It was a 10-year grind” he says. “But by the time I launched my business, I was mentally ready for anything.”
He credits much of his resilience to his Albanian roots. “We’re a resilient people. I’ve always felt a responsibility to earn Albania’s pride, and that shows in how I approach every opportunity.”
Now expanding through a partnership with eXp Realty, VERSAI is building a real estate department and recruiting agents who want to work with a company that understands value from the ground up. Future goals include developing proprietary technology and AI to enhance every phase of service.
As for young Albanians interested in STEM, Klodian offers a piece of firm advice:
“Regardless of what you want to do in life, a STEM background will prepare you better than anything else. It builds a calculated mindset. It’s not just about career success — it gives you more control over life’s outcomes.”/ATLANTIKU
