2026 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Ijeoma Iheanacho, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP, Urbahn Architects

“Ijeoma is a confident, positive and energetic team leader, who always puts in the extra effort to mentor burgeoning professionals. Thanks to her leadership skills, architectural talent and design expertise, she has successfully managed some of Urbahn’s largest and most complex recent projects, including multi-phased design-build undertakings for the City of New York.” 

What recent accomplishment or initiative are you most proud of, and what impact did it have on your firm, clients, or community?

I always feel most accomplished when I see the design leap from the “paper” and into the ground. Recently walking the DOT Harper Street Administration Building construction site in Queens, NY was very rewarding. I remember the effort it took to produce the design work and manage the multi-party design/build team for this $121 million, highly complex, technically challenging undertaking. It reminded me I must be as reliable to the teams I manage as I ask them to be reliable for the work we were creating.

How do you inspire, motivate, or mentor others within your organization?

I believe real motivation comes from within. It is my job to give my team members the opportunities they need to spark that motivation. I focus on reinforcing what they are good at to allow them to have faith in the foundation of their work, and then I encourage them to consider opportunities outside of their comfort zone to take on broader skill sets for professional growth.

What daily habit or routine helps you stay focused or motivated as a leader?

Weight training helps in reducing my stress levels tremendously!

What book, podcast, or app has most influenced your approach to leadership?

Kakashi Hatake’s philosophy: toss them in the water, but let them see you on shore with a floaty.

Who has had the greatest impact on your career or leadership journey?

My mother, Dorathy Adaure Iheanacho – she taught me to be who I am and to always stay focused.