5th Anniversary Interview with Architectural Contributor Mike Rosado

We’re happy to highlight Architectural Contributor Mike Rosado, Assoc. AIA, as we celebrate his fifth anniversary as a member of the Thriven Design team. He is an integral part of our Asset Preservation Studio, focusing on the preservation of existing structures, and he also improves automation of the design workflow throughout the firm as a member of the BIM Team. Congratulations, Mike, and thank you for all you do to create places where people thrive!

In honor of this milestone, please enjoy a Q&A with Mike in which he shares some insights into his career journey:

Was there anything, or anyone, in particular that inspired your decision to pursue a career in architecture?

Mike: Growing up, I had no exposure to architects or a clear understanding of the field. However, a few CAD courses in high school ignited my interest and led me to pursue an undergraduate degree in architecture. From the first week of my studies, I discovered an intense passion for architecture and the built environment, a passion that has only deepened over time. Today, I proudly serve as the AIA West Jersey’s EPiC Section Director, a role that has enabled me to build a robust network and provide valuable resources to myself and others on the path to architectural licensure.

What initially attracted you to Thriven Design and what is your favorite part about your role after 5 years?

Mike: I was initially drawn to the firm because of its diverse portfolio of housing projects, as showcased on the website. This includes a wide variety of building typologies and developments such as student, senior, affordable, and market-rate housing. Personally, I have also worked on commercial buildings, daycares, and even warehouses. My favorite aspect of working at Thriven is the breadth of projects available and the opportunity to be involved in every phase of these projects.

As a member of the Building Information Modeling (BIM) team at Thriven Design, how have you seen this technology evolve and integrate itself into the design process?

Mike: From day one, Thriven Design emphasizes the importance of BIM in the design process. As a member of the BIM team, we continually strive to streamline our day-to-day workflow within the office. It’s been a joy to test out new technologies that have significantly benefited our work.

What has had the greatest impact on your career while being a part of the Thriven Design team?

Mike: As I mentioned earlier, during my career at Thriven Design, I’ve had numerous opportunities as a young professional to learn and take the reins on various tasks and projects. The studio structure allows me to work on every phase of a project, from schematic design to construction. In just five years since graduating college, my experience and skills have expanded significantly.