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 would say the achievement that I am most proud of is my WBE certification. As the owner of a 100% woman owned business in the mechanical insulation industry, I hope I can show other woman in construction that woman ownership is possible. The mechanical insulation industry is predominantly owned and operated by men. The lack of ownership and leadership of woman in this field was one of my driving forces to get involved. The men and woman who work for Aura Insulation make me so proud to go to work everyday and strive to build a great place to work.

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? My parents are my biggest inspiration not only in my career, but my life. I firmly believe that because of the way i was raised, along with the morals, and work ethic my parents instilled in me, created the person I am today. My parents are both immigrants from Portugal who came here at a young age and took full advantage of the American dream. My mother started filing papers at an asset management company and worked her way up to the COO of the company. My father taught me skills and a work ethic to believe anyone can do anything they put their mind too. I’m blessed to have them in my life.

What’s your favorite way to recharge or get inspired outside of work? I enjoy exercise and meditation to recharge. Most of my inspiration comes from research and reading

Do you have a hidden talent or a surprising fact about yourself that most people wouldn’t know? I married my high school boyfriend and we have 4 wonderful children together, 3 girls and 1 boy.