Bottom Line Construction & Development

💥 Meet Ashley Pineda Uraga, a Harlem native, senior at Columbia Secondary School, and recipient of the Youth Construct ACED Award for Cohort ’25. This summer, she interned with Turner Construction Company, gaining hands-on experience that deepened her passion for design and architecture.

Outside of school, Ashley is inspired by photography, drawing, journaling, badminton, volunteering in nature, and time with friends—often with a camera in hand.

Her goals are ambitious: excelling in AP Chemistry, advocating for PSAL badminton at her school, and building a strong portfolio as she pursues Pratt Institute, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, Cornell University, and Rice University. Ultimately, Ashley dreams of becoming an architect focused on infrastructure.

Reflecting on her journey, she shared:
“Youth Construct made me more confident in my capability to pursue architecture. Life is a journey, and I will end up where I am meant to be – it’s about taking risks on my passions.”

Ashley advises future students to understand the commitment but highlights the program’s unique value:
“I would recommend this internship to anyone… For the experience and the knowledge, definitely.”

Her biggest takeaway?
“Whatever career option you choose, you have to love it. Even if you try something and don’t like it, it’s okay because there are other paths. You still have time to change—it’s never too late.”

We’re proud to celebrate Ashley’s journey and her recognition as an ACED Award recipient of Cohort ’25.

🎓 Open Enrollment is Live!
We’re accepting applications for the next Youth Construct cohort. If you know motivated high school juniors or seniors interested in Architecture, Construction, Engineering, or Development, encourage them to apply.

🗓️ Deadline: September 13, 2025
🔗 Apply: https://lnkd.in/es8RGET6

Giving Tuesday – December 6, 2025
Our goal: 100 monthly donors of $25+ (any amount—$5, $10, $15—helps!). Together, we can reach $50,000 to sustain and grow this impact.
Donate: https://lnkd.in/eTMyi5ya

With appreciation to our supporters: Kevin Chase, Jason Munkatchy, Nelly Vasquez, Fuquan Collins, Tyreef Bevel, Samira Fowler, Vogue Jackson, Danyelle Simmons, Melissa Kelly, AIA LEED AP, BD+C, Willie Mae Veasy, Danny Veasy, Wilhelmena Norman-Hernandez, MaeOla Bolton, Alan Senzer, Nancy Carin, Ehi Uwa, DeVon J. Prioleau, Jr. Board Member Abigail Haslam, and Admin Tyler Sharpe