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What made you decide to join the company?
I thought it would be a great chance for me to grow as an individual and a professional if I could work in Japan. Having work experience in different countries is something that is not found every day. I am also deeply passionate and motivated about my work, so I decided to apply, and I am happy and grateful to belong to this company.
What is your current job description?
My main roles are LEED consultant for new construction projects, commercial interiors and performance testing for WELL projects. I like to be engaged in consulting work which can be more office-based, and the WELL performance-related is site work and I see the final product with my own eyes.
I am involved in all phases of the project, from feasibility studies to design and construction phases. Each project has a challenge and I am glad to accompany the project team in building a more sustainable future.
What are some of your most memorable experience at Woonerf so far?
I participated in Greenbuild San Francisco in 2022 and it was a wonderful experience as I could learn from the experience of other professionals regarding current technologies, challenges, and trends in the green building industry. The event had a positive energy that was contagious. I could also participate in the WELL Summit in Tokyo in 2024, it was a great opportunity to interact with representatives of IWBI of Asia-Pacific and the USA. I enjoy connecting with people so both events have been remarkable for networking.
What did you do in your previous job?
I had experience in sustainability for the real estate industry for about three years before joining Woonerf. I worked as Sustainability Coordinator for Colliers International and as Senior Consultant for Bioconstruccion y Energia Alternativa. I had consulting experience in various projects in Mexico, mainly new construction and existing buildings. I also worked for six months in AKF Group, an engineering design company as plumbing design engineer.
What have you learned as a student that has helped you in your current job?
I have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and a master's degree in environmental systems both from Mexican Universities. I could also study abroad in the United States and in Hokkaido University in Japan. My master’s research focused on the development of low-cost ceramic filters for the removal of arsenic in drinking water. Given the risk of water scarcity in developing countries, it was a valuable experience to research on solutions for vulnerable communities.
Are there any distortions you felt when you joined the company?
The language gap was a big challenge for me when I first joined the company, so I was grateful to have the support of the company with Japanese lessons that could help me improve my understanding and speaking skills. I was also nervous regarding the working culture in Japan as it is completely different to the one in Mexico. Now I think my Japanese has improved a lot and I feel more confident when doing business with Japanese people.
Please share how you spend your day at work.
I like the flexibility of the company. In that sense, I can choose whether to work in one of our offices (including Osaka, Hamamatsu and Tokyo), work in a co-working space, or at home. This has given me the chance to discover different places and people in Japan.
I normally start my day by checking emails and making a list of to-do tasks for the day. I participate in both internal and external meetings, so I need some time to prepare if I am going to present information.
I enjoy having a drink with my colleagues during happy hours at Ichigaya office! 😊
How do you feel about the company and your job?
I joined the company during COVID 19 and I was really surprised by how warm and hospitable everyone was with me in spite of the complicated situation. I think many of my coworkers are genuinely good people and I really feel like the company does not only care about my work performance, but also about my well-being.
I am glad to participate in interesting and challenging projects, I also really enjoy the culture as it is focused on teamwork where everyone is there to support each other.
How you spend your time off
I am currently involved in martial arts (karate and kickboxing) and it is really helpful for stress release! I practice as much as possible. During my time off I like to hang out with friends, painting, photography or just relaxing at home.
