Women in BIM has appointed a new Head of Regional Leads for North America, Argelia Bárcena.
Argelia is a recognised leader in design technology and digital practice. In addition to servicing as Women in BIM’s Head of Regional Leads for North America, she contributes to the industry as Associate Director on the AIA San Francisco Board and as a member of the AIA National Technology in Architectural Practice Leadership Committee.
Originally trained as an architect, Argelia transitioned mid-career into design technology, where she now excels as Regional Design Technology Manager at Gensler, overseeing the Northwest Region. Alongside her professional work, she has taught as adjunct faculty in San Francisco and authored two BIM textbooks.
A frequent industry speaker, she has presented at major conferences including Autodesk University, where she received a Top-Rated Class Award. Her achievements include recognition as an Autodesk Expert Elite, a BIM Hero Medal, and the Autodesk Award for Mentorship. In 2024, she was named one of the San Francisco Business Times’ “Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business.”
Here Argelia tells us about her first encounters in the AEC industry, her passions for technology and what it means to be part of the Women in BIM community
Qu. 1 What first sparked your interest in a career in the AEC industry and what drew you to it personally?
It started while I was in high school, with my love for math, creativity and design. I was drawn to the way architecture combines analytical thinking with creativity, solving complex problems while shaping buildings and spaces. I remember driving around in the early evenings, with my mother, looking at buildings just for fun.
Qu. 2 What aspects of working in the built environment inspire or energise you the most right now?
Right now, I am most energized by the rapid evolution of design technology in our industry and its power to solve complex global challenges. The shift toward more integrated, data-driven workflows is fundamentally changing how we approach project delivery by breaking down traditional industry silos. We are at a point where BIM and generative tools are no longer just for documentation, they are essential for performance and informing design. These emerging technologies are opening a path for new roles and career paths. We are at a point where technology is not separate from professional practice, it is practice.
Qu. 3 Looking back so far, is there a particular project, moment or achievement in your career that stands out as a highlight?
Looking back, a few moments stand out as highlights in my career. Leading BIM management and all things design technology on the San Francisco International Airport project has been a one of a kind experience, creating spaces that so many people around the world get to experience feels very rewarding. Earlier in my career, when I focused more on the design side, working on high-profile projects like the Facebook offices was also a highlight given the significance and prestige of the company. To several years later, speaking at Autodesk University marked a career milestone, allowing me to share my expertise with the wider AEC community. Perhaps most transformative was my unplanned pivot into design technology, which opened countless doors and shaped the path I am on today.
Qu. 4 What does being part of the Women in BIM community mean to you personally and why do you think communities like Women in BIM matter?
For me, Women in BIM represents both connection and action, it’s being part of a global community where women in design technology can learn from each other, collaborate and lead meaningful change in our industry. It’s a space that helps Members stay aware of alignment, or misalignment, across regions in relation to industry standards. From mentorship, to guidance, to sharing opportunities for development. Communities ours this matter because of our leading role models who inspire other women.
Qu. 5 If you could shape the future of BIM in North America in one meaningful way, what change or development do you want to see happen?
I would like to see BIM evolve into a broader, more diverse technology umbrella. Today, it’s no longer just about BIM, it encompasses data, automation, collaboration platforms, AI and emerging design technologies that enable carbon conscious design. In addition, I want to help shape a stronger alignment between academia and industry preparing the next generation, which means integrating real-world workflows and technology skills into the curriculum. Bridging the gap between traditional education and current professional practice workflows.
Qu. 6 What’s something new in the past 12 months – professionally or personally – that you would like to share with the Women in BIM community?
Something new? I’ve been appointed to be WIB Head of Regional Leads – North America! That’s a big update. I have also been appointed to serve on the American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Technology in Architectural Practice Leadership Committee.
