2025 Women in Construction: Frances Rubino, Elkus Manfredi Architects

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community? I have led Elkus Manfredi’s Quality Control/Quality Assurance group since 2022, a responsibility that enables me to help lead project teams through codes and detailing complexities in different jurisdictions. I work on multiple projects and create resources to ensure everyone has the tools to meet deadlines and uphold quality standards. Seeing my colleagues respond positively and take the information into their next project is incredibly rewarding, as is leading our construction administration site visit initiative – getting people onsite to see the product of their work is really gratifying.

Who or what has inspired you most in your career, and what advice would you share with the next generation of women entering the A/E/C industry? People in my life had doubts about my decision to pursue architecture, often rooted in outdated ideas of women’s roles. That skepticism helped fuel my determination to push forward, and over time, I learned that the more I surround myself with diverse, passionate, driven individuals, the more inspired and motivated I am to succeed. My advice to the next generation of women: surround yourself with incredible people you admire and hope to be like. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by such people, and have learned that good energy is contagious. It’s about sharing positivity and paying it forward.

What’s your favorite way to recharge or get inspired outside of work? Dancing and singing with my daughter while we cook, seeing new bands with friends, and pup snuggles.