Meet Jula Turipe...

Can you tell us a little about your cultural background and where you/your family is from?

I'm originally from Venezuela, and my family too; so my family has a strong Venezuelan heritage. We celebrate traditional holidays like Carnaval. Venezuelan cuisine is influenced by its European (Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and French), West African, and indigenous traditions. Venezuelan cuisine varies greatly from one region to another. Food staples include corn, rice, plantains, yams, beans, and several meats.

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What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you, especially in the context of your work and career?

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to proudly celebrate the rich cultural contributions of my heritage in the workplace, bringing new ideas and solutions in the field of architecture and engineering, incorporating elements of our cuisine in team events and actively advocating for greater representation of diverse voices within my company, ensuring everyone feels seen and valued.

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Can you tell us about your journey into architecture and what drew you to the field?

My journey into architecture started early on, as a child, I was fascinated by the way buildings shaped our surroundings and could evoke different emotions. I would often sketch designs for dream houses, and this curiosity led me to explore architecture further in school. What truly drew me to the field was the ability to combine creativity with technical problem-solving, designing spaces that function well, enhance people's lives, and contribute positively to communities.

How has your background influenced the way you approach problem-solving in architecture projects?

My background in commercial-residential projects, sustainable design, and historic preservation has significantly shaped my problem-solving approach in architecture by emphasizing the need to consider not just aesthetic appeal but also the broader environmental, social, and historical context of a project. For example, when designing a new building in a historic district, I would prioritize incorporating design elements that seamlessly integrate with the existing streetscape while still meeting contemporary functionality needs, ensuring a harmonious balance between preservation and innovation.

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What’s been your favorite project to work on at 2IM Group, and what made it special?

I have enjoyed working at the Residential Sound Insulation Program (RSIP) a lot, but especially the phase of historic houses because they have different treatment and conditions than regular houses; besides, many houses have their history.

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Can you walk us through a typical day for you at 2IM Group and what aspects of the job you enjoy most?

My day starts in the office very early, I take my folders and go out to the field, where I inspect the replacement of windows and doors that are part of the program. I enjoy coordinating the construction and working with contractors and homeowners.

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Is there a tradition or value from your Hispanic heritage that has shaped who you are today, both personally and professionally?

A strong emphasis on family unity, prioritizing respect for another one, a strong work ethic, the importance of community, and the value of hospitality are all examples of traditions or values from Hispanic heritage that can significantly shape someone's personal and professional life today.

How do you see diversity strengthening civil engineering teams and projects?

A diverse civil engineering team can strengthen projects by bringing a wider range of perspectives, experiences, and innovative ideas to the table, leading to more comprehensive solutions, improved problem-solving abilities, and a better understanding of the needs of the community the project serves, particularly when considering factors like cultural sensitivities, accessibility, and environmental impact; this can ultimately result in more resilient, sustainable, and equitable infrastructure designs.?

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