A Message from our CEO

As I sit at my small glass desk, gazing out at a snow-covered pond, a quaint little bridge, and the rooftops of my neighbors, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for how far we’ve come at UM Design Group. The journey has been extraordinary marked by challenges, triumphs, and an unwavering desire to create meaningful change. Along the way, I’ve been inspired by incredible people who’ve shaped my path and fueled my purpose.

Foremost among them is my mother, who is my hero and greatest inspiration. An immigrant from Michoacán, Mexico, she embodies resilience, strength, and unconditional love. Her tireless work ethic and unshakable determination taught me to be a true “Guerrera” (warrior) and instilled in me the belief that it’s our responsibility to make the next generation better than ourselves. Today, she remains the cornerstone of my family, helping to raise my children. It’s my turn now to ensure that she finds the peace and happiness she so deeply deserves.

Being a single mother has shaped me in countless ways, giving me the strength and determination to lead by example. My two sons, now grown at 23 and 21, have shown incredible resilience. One has lived with epilepsy since he was 10 years old, and the other overcame a difficult period where the wrong influences led him astray. Watching them grow into wiser, healthier, and stronger men fills me with immense pride. My youngest, my brilliant 11-year-old daughter, has faced her own challenges, including a traumatic kidnapping attempt in 2022. Despite this, she’s channeled her strength into remarkable achievements in academics, athletics, and art. Seeing her creativity shine through her handcrafted and digital artwork inspires me every day. My children are my greatest teachers, and watching them transform into their unique, beautiful selves is one of my life’s greatest joys.

When UM Design Group began, it was created to support construction companies behind the scenes. Marketing ourselves wasn’t the priority; instead, we focused on helping others grow and thrive. My diverse experience and education gave me the ability to see the bigger picture—to understand how businesses can operate more effectively and sustainably. Over the years, I’ve come to deeply value the importance of building the right team. It’s not just about assembling talent; it’s about fostering an environment where everyone can grow into their unique strengths.

By 2023, I realized that my heart belonged fully to UM Design Group. It became clear that the work I wanted to dedicate my life to had to align with my vision of creating positive change in the world through collaboration, knowledge, and passion. I’m immensely grateful for the opportunities I’ve had throughout my career—experiences that have taken me across the United States, Mexico, and Italy and allowed me to meet extraordinary people. I’m equally thankful for the setbacks and challenges that pushed me to grow and adapt. The lessons learned from closed doors and crumbling bridges have shaped me into the leader I am today.

At UM Design Group, we’re not just about construction. We’re about people, relationships, and building something bigger than ourselves. What truly sets us apart is the incredible team that makes it all possible—a group of individuals whose unique talents and shared passion drive everything we do.

Jania Figueroa, my right hand and soul sister, has been with me from the start. She left a successful career in banking and logistics to take a leap of faith and join me in the construction industry. Jania is the definition of dedication, with a brilliant mind for numbers and an unparalleled drive to learn and grow outside her comfort zone. As our CFO and Vice President, she’s the backbone of our financial operations, but her contributions go far beyond spreadsheets and contracts. She’s the one who keeps us grounded with her humor, her love for cooking, and her unwavering support. Jania is the kind of person who says, “If you jump, I jump,” and her loyalty and friendship have been instrumental in shaping UM Design Group into what it is today.

Tracey Placencia, my lifelong best friend and “ride or die” since we were four years old, is another cornerstone of our team. Tracey’s heart is as big as her vision, and her creativity knows no bounds. After nearly two decades in the medical field, where she worked tirelessly with the elderly and mental health patients—especially during the heartbreaking challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic—Tracey joined our team with a desire to make an impact in a new way. As our Chief Public Relations Officer and Vice President, she brings warmth, compassion, and an incredible ability to connect with people. Tracey’s eccentric and unconventional ideas often remind me not to limit myself, and her energy inspires us all to push beyond what we think is possible. Her transition into this role is a testament to her adaptability, dedication, and courage to embrace new challenges.

Shawn Joseph, the newest member of our team, has quickly proven to be an invaluable asset. With a background in radio and an innate ability to connect with audiences, Shawn has taken our communications and outreach to the next level. His charm and creativity are helping us share our story—and the stories of those we serve—through digital platforms and innovative projects. Shawn’s fresh perspective has allowed us to dream bigger, and his contributions are paving the way for some of our most ambitious endeavors yet.

Finally, I must highlight the incredible superintendents and original team members I’ve had the privilege of working alongside. The Alvarez brothers, with their unmatched knowledge, craftsmanship, and integrity, give me complete confidence in our ability to deliver excellence on every project. Construction is a field where you need to know a little bit about every trade, but having experts like them on our side ensures that every detail is handled with care and precision.

UM Design Group is more than just a company—it’s a family. Together, we’re building something that goes beyond construction. We’re creating a legacy of collaboration, compassion, and positive change, one project and one relationship at a time.