Influential Woman · Professional Services Architecture and Design

Jessica Herrera

Business Manager, KME ARCHITECTS

Las Vegas, NV

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Bachelor's degree in Office Administration Member Latin Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program

Her Story

About Jessica

I recently became the business manager for our architecture and design firm here in Las Vegas. I'm originally from California, where I started my career in the insurance industry, which developed into leadership and supervisory roles. I ended up working for the County of Santa Barbara's Department of Social Services for about 10 years, supporting applications from end users and helping social workers with documentation so they could review benefits. It was customer service based support. When I moved to Las Vegas because my husband had gotten work out here, I was applying everywhere and anywhere because I just needed to work so I could move. The firm reached out to me originally as an office administrator, and I've just grown from office administrator to office manager, and just recently now to business manager. The industry was completely new to me since I had never been exposed to architecture in that sense, so it's definitely been a learning experience. Since we're a small firm, I handle everything from overseeing staff and basic office operations to assisting both principals as essentially an executive assistant to both owners, as well as taking on some HR duties and billing. I wear many hats and touch a little bit of everything here in the office that has anything except for design. I also try to keep relations with our current clients and partners to make sure the office runs smoothly and everybody has the support that they need.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Jessica

01What do you attribute your success to?

I would have to say my parents, just instilling the work ethic, working hard, that nothing's ever handed to you, you gotta work for everything that you get. And my dad in particular was like, if you're gonna do something, do it right the first time. That's really been the foundation of my success. I've always believed that if you're gonna do something, do it well and to your best ability.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best career advice I've received came from my dad, who told me that if you're gonna do something, do it right the first time. I've always carried that with me throughout my career. If you're gonna do something, do it well and to your best ability.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

I would say for them to be authentic in who they are, not to try to be something that they're not. Really hone in on their strengths and work hard at everything that they do. As long as they put their mind to it, they can achieve anything.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

There are so many opportunities in my field right now. There are a lot of organizations that have a lot of networking events. I recently joined the Latin Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program, and they really just try to help you understand how you work, who you are, what are your strengths. There's a lot of organizations out there that do try to help and develop your skills.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Well, I'm a woman of faith. I value my faith, family, trust, communication, and loyalty. And that translates to my work, you know, I've been with them since I moved here to Las Vegas. And they've become work family, so I mean I see them just as much as I do my husband at home.

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