Refining Roots: Navigating Opportunities as an Immigrant Professional, with Juan Ricardes, Assoc. AIA.

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 Juan Ricardes holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Buenos Aires and is a registered architect with the Professional Council of Architecture & Urban Planning in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is also an International Associate member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in the U.S.

 Throughout his career, Juan has gained extensive experience in luxury hotels, resorts, retail, hospitality, and mixed-use projects. His portfolio features collaborations with leading industry brands such as Hard Rock Hotels, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, Wyndham, Choice Hotels, Intercontinental Hotels Group, and various boutique operators.

 Currently, Juan is a Senior Project Manager at EMPAD Architecture + Design in Clearwater, Florida, where he focuses on delivering design excellence and outstanding client service. His role allows him to lead diverse commercial projects across private and public sectors, including defense, aviation, and automotive ventures.

 Juan is an active member of the AEC professional community, serving on the board of The Center for Architecture and Design Tampa Bay, a member of the AIA Florida Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Council, and a mentor with AIA International. He also collaborates with the Immigrant Architect Coalition. His leadership experience includes serving as President of AIA Central Kentucky (2022), a board member at AIA Kentucky (2020-2022), and Vice President of AIA Tampa Bay (2019). Additionally, Juan has contributed to the community as a Commissioner for the Tampa Barrio Latino Commission and a Hillsborough County Public Art Committee member.

 In his spare time, Juan enjoys painting, photography, and traveling with his life partner. He has exhibited his artwork several times and loves visiting his family in his home country, Argentina.

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