Influential Woman · Architect

Valeria Mastrapa

Design Manager, OBM International

Miami, FL

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Master's in Architecture Degree FIU Member AIA

Her Story

About Valeria

I've been in architecture for about 8 years now. Since I was little, maybe in middle school, I wanted to be an architect. I was very into drawing and math, so I always thought architecture would be a good option for me. That was my main focus going into high school and college, and here I am today. Currently, I'm a project manager where I lead architectural projects from the design aspect, from the early stages of the project. I lead my teams internally and externally, so it's more of management but with the design aspect of architecture. One of my proudest moments was when I designed a project in Boynton Beach that was awarded for a bid against other contestants for its design. I hold a Master's in Architecture from FIU and am associated with the AIA.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Valeria

01What do you attribute your success to?

I would consider my dad being a big aspect of it. He does push me a lot to believe in myself and to always want to be better. He's been an inspirational from the start. I think having someone who believes in you and encourages you to continuously improve has made a significant difference in my journey and success.

02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

I would say that life isn't always going to be fair, but it's kind of how you take those challenges and face them. Having a positive attitude for everything is very important.

03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

I work with a lot of international consultants, so working with other people and all their cultures is always a challenge, but it's also interesting to learn how they work in that aspect as well. As a woman, it's also been kind of a challenge. I've had times where I've had to sit in a room full of men, and it's just trying to be taken seriously for being young and a woman. That has been considered a challenge, but a good opportunity in my perspective.

04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

I value a lot the culture and who you work with - it makes a big difference in the work environment. I value people that want you to do better and have a good, positive attitude. I think that still stands in personal life as well. Attitude for everything is very important to me.

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