Luna Awards Celebrate Women Leaders in Architecture, Engineering and Construction in the Rio Grande Valley

Harlingen, Texas — The 2025 Luna Awards Luncheon – Rio Grande Valley Region, hosted by the Regional Hispanic Contractors Association (RHCA) in partnership with the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, honored the achievements of women, women-owned businesses and advocates in the architecture, engineering and construction (A/E/C) industries. The event took place Wednesday, Aug. 27, at the Harlingen Convention Center.

State Rep. Erin Elizabeth Gámez delivered the keynote address, and Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda provided opening remarks, highlighting the impact of women leaders on the region’s built environment.

2025 Award Recipients – Rio Grande Valley Region

·         A/E/C Firm of the Year: Karla Goldammer, D&J Site Construction LLC

·         Service Firm of the Year: Deborah L. Cordova, Walsh McGurk Cordova Nixon, PLLC

·         Rising Star A/E/C Firm of the Year: Priscilla Torrero and Marie Salazar Garcia, SHE IS

·         Business Advocate of the Year: Stephanie M. Cardoza, MBA

·         Lifetime Achievement Award: Sarah J. Sagredo-Hammond, Atlas Electrical, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Plumbing Services, Inc.

·         Woman of the Year A/E/C: Carolina Civarolo, ORANGE MADE architecture

·         Outstanding Professional of the Year: Marie Salazar Garcia, SAMES, Inc., Surveying & Engineering

·         Outstanding Administrative Professional of the Year: Erika R. Benavidez, Texas Gas Service

RGVHCC President and CEO Cynthia Sakulenzki said, “The Luna Awards Luncheon not only shines a light on the leaders and innovators in A/E/C but also strengthens our mission to empower women and create new pathways for leadership across industries.”

Juan Carlos “JC” Gonzalez, RHCA secretary, added, “Events like these remind us how powerful it is when we come together to honor the women who are building our communities, breaking barriers, and leading with vision and strength.”

The Luna Awards recognize excellence and leadership in the A/E/C industries across South Texas. The awards are part of RHCA’s statewide efforts to empower Hispanic contractors through business development programs, project procurement assistance, safety education and advocacy.