10th Anniversary Interview with Project Coordinator Ana Pena

Congratulations to Ana Pena, Project Coordinator at Thriven Design, on her 10th anniversary with the firm. We are happy to recognize Ana on this occasion and are thankful for her contributions to our Affordable and Student Housing Studios. Over the years she has become an essential part of the team, known for her attention to detail and skillful architectural design.
In honor of this milestone, please enjoy an interview with Ana in which she shares some insights into her career journey:
What inspired you to pursue a career in architecture? How did this influence your decision to choose Thriven Design as the place to let your career grow over the last decade?
Ana: When I was in high school, I didn’t have a clear idea of what I wanted to pursue in college. I remember that during my last year of high school, in El Salvador, I completed an administered series of aptitude tests which were to advise students on suitable careers based on their skills and abilities. My top recommendation was architecture. However, I didn’t initially consider architecture as my first option and planned to apply to an engineering school instead. But I actually never completed the admission process due to my family’s decision for me to move to the United States.
Once in the U.S., I decided to give the architecture program a try while attending a community college. Throughout my years in college, I grew to appreciate and eventually love the field. I truly enjoyed working with architectural concepts and developing them. After finishing college, I was contacted by Thriven Design; I learned about the firm’s values and mission, and I felt it would be a place where I could further develop my skills and knowledge, but what motivated me the most was the opportunity to work on affordable housing, doing something meaningful with my career.
After finishing college, I was contacted by Thriven Design; I learned about the firm's values and mission, and I felt it would be a place where I could further develop my skills and knowledge, but what motivated me the most was the opportunity to work on affordable housing, doing something meaningful with my career.
Ana Pena, Project Coordinator
As you reflect on ten years with the firm, are there any favorite memories that come to mind?
Ana: My favorite memories with the firm involve conversations with my team members, whether we were working through a problem or laughing about it. The COVID pandemic brought many challenges when working from home and trying to meet deadlines. However, during that time, I was able to form closer bonds and friendships with my team members that will linger on and remain valuable to me. It was a true learning and bonding experience.
What advice would you give to aspiring architects just beginning their careers? Are there any key lessons learned that have been most beneficial over the course of your career?
Ana: My best advice is to work with enthusiasm, enjoy teamwork, and value your team members. There are many lessons I have learned, but the most important one was learning to work as a team. Instead of competing against each other, we help one another to achieve our project goals. I believe that architecture school is very competitive, and while there is nothing wrong with being ambitious about your career, my best memories here are of going through stressful moments of a project with people I enjoy working with by my side to support me. They make me feel valuable as a professional.