From a young age, I dreamed of becoming an engineer.
I initially aspired to follow in my father’s footsteps as a civil engineer and work in construction. However, during my final year of high school, I met Roberto, who is still my husband and best friend today. Together, we decided to pursue Industrial Engineering, specializing in mechanics.
After six years of intense studies, I began my professional journey with an internship at PROMEC, the leading engineering firm in Madrid. It was there that I first became familiar with the ASHRAE books that soon lined my shelves. Little by little, I realized that my entire profession was based on the knowledge in these books. Whenever I had doubts, I would turn to those iconic green and brown volumes, and they always had the answers I needed.
I recall one particular project—a bowling alley—that presented numerous design challenges. It was an ASHRAE Applications book that guided me to deliver a high-quality design.
Later, I embarked on a five-year adventure with my husband and our three children to Rochester, NY, where I worked at The Pike Company, a construction firm. It was an incredible experience that also gave me the opportunity to connect with the ASHRAE USA team.
Upon returning from this adventure, I decided to take on another exciting challenge. Together with Esteban, who is now my business partner and close friend, we founded ACIX CONSULTORÍA, where we work on fascinating projects and face new challenges every day.
Throughout my career, I’ve never let go of ASHRAE, nor have I stopped receiving my monthly journal. Today, I am incredibly proud to say that I am the first female president of ASHRAE in Spain. I’ve built a team of exceptional individuals who will support me during my two-year term, and I couldn’t be prouder of the ASHRAE team we’ve created.
I also want to acknowledge something historic—this is the first time in ASHRAE’s history that both the current president and the president-elect are women. I see it as an exciting challenge and a milestone for our organization.