Natasha Susan Fernandez
Natasha Susan Fernandez is an architect, construction project manager, and cost engineer with a multidisciplinary background that bridges design, execution, and strategic oversight within the built environment. She currently serves as an Assistant Project Manager and Cost Engineer at AECOM Hunt, supporting large-scale aviation infrastructure projects under the ORD ‘21 Program at Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway International Airports. Her work focuses on construction project management, cost engineering, and collaborative delivery in complex, high-impact environments.
Natasha holds a Master of Science in Architecture–Engineering–Construction Management from Carnegie Mellon University, where she graduated with a 4.00 GPA. During her graduate studies, she served as a Teaching Assistant for Project Management and Real Estate Design and Development, and gained hands-on experience through internships in campus design and facility development. She also earned her Bachelor of Architecture from Manipal Academy of Higher Education, building a strong foundation in architectural design, construction, and interdisciplinary coordination.
Beyond her technical expertise, Natasha brings a unique perspective shaped by her passion for writing and storytelling. She has held leadership and communications roles with the American Institute of Architecture Students and The Writing Academy at Carnegie Mellon University, and is a published author. A LEED Green Associate with a strong interest in sustainability, climate action, and social impact, Natasha is driven by continuous learning and a commitment to creating thoughtful, efficient, and meaningful spaces that connect people, purpose, and place.
• GIS for Climate Action
• Graduate Student Representative
• Certified Member (CM)
• Demystifying Steel Systems and Structures
• Kinetic Architecture
• Architecture and Design Pedagogical Repository
• BIM Applications
• BIM Fundamentals
• Building Stories
• Construction Project Management
• Design, Health and Well-being
• FDP_Safety through Design
• Fundamentals of Project Planning and Management
• The Future of Architecture
• Writing, Communicating and Curating in Architecture
• Registered Architect
• LEED Green Associate
• Manipal Academy of Higher Education - BArch
• Carnegie Mellon University - MS, Architecture-Engineering-Construction Management
• Partners Allied in Civic Engagement
• Strong Women, Strong Girls
• Carnegie Mellon University Dining Services
• The Petey Greene Program
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to effective time management and the strong support system around me, including my family, friends, and coworkers. Their encouragement has allowed me to stay focused, balanced, and motivated while navigating professional responsibilities. I am also deeply influenced by my mother’s strong work ethic, which shaped my values, resilience, and commitment to excellence, and continues to guide the way I approach my career and personal growth.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my seventh-grade teacher, who reminded me not to get overwhelmed and to view every experience as a stepping stone rather than a setback. They encouraged me to take things one day at a time and stay focused on the present, a mindset that has helped me remain grounded, adaptable, and forward-thinking throughout my personal and professional journey.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering the industry to never give up, even when progress feels slow or uncertain. Success often arrives when you least expect it, and persistence, resilience, and confidence in your abilities can make all the difference along the journey.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunities in my field right now include the constant ability to learn and grow, engaging work that remains enjoyable, and being surrounded by people who are genuinely interested in and supportive of my passions. At the same time, a key challenge is keeping pace with the evolving demands of the industry while maintaining balance and focus, which requires adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are empathy and integrity. Putting myself in someone else’s shoes allows me to better understand people’s perspectives, ideas, and choices, which strengthens collaboration and relationships. Integrity guides my actions and decisions, ensuring that I lead with honesty, respect, and accountability in everything I do.