In a world driven by infrastructure and innovation, delivering multidisciplinary engineering solutions isn’t just a profession—it’s a commitment to shaping the future. From the foundations of civil and structural design to the intricacies of mechanical, electrical, and SCADA systems, Cordoba Corporation stands at the forefront of technical expertise and operational integrity in its water sector.
In this Q&A, Project Coordinator Irene Trujillo shares how she brings meticulous precision and unwavering purpose to every detail at the Rinconada Water Treatment Plant.
What does a typical day look like for you at Rinconada in your role?
“I begin each day at our project office located at Rinconada, a site situated in Santa Clara, California. After reviewing project communications and updates to ensure alignment with current site objectives, I gear up with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and analyze the latest construction drawings and documentation to verify scopes of work and identify any design or sequencing changes.
I then conduct a detailed site walk, typically lasting one to two hours, to observe real-time progress, document demolition activities, and identify any deviations from plan. These findings are shared with our remote team to maintain consistent visibility and facilitate effective decision-making across locations.
My role is a blend of tactical fieldwork and project coordination. I’m not confined to an office—I’m actively engaged on-site, upholding safety standards, validating execution against plans, and driving construction progress forward with precision.”
Can you share the history of our work at Rinconada and the significance of our long-standing relationship with this client?
“Cordoba’s involvement at the Rinconada Water Treatment Plant began during a key transitional period when the project was facing significant scheduling challenges. Initially brought on for construction management support, our role quickly expanded into full-service project and construction management as we demonstrated adaptability and technical expertise.
Over time, our scope has grown through close collaboration with specialized subcontractors, enabling us to deliver professional engineering services across civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and SCADA disciplines. In addition to core design and engineering work, we’ve supported the client through SCADA and electrical inspections, SWPPP compliance monitoring, and continued involvement in quality assurance/quality control, preconstruction coordination, and regulatory oversight.
Our long-standing relationship with this client reflects not only trust and technical proficiency but a shared commitment to resilient infrastructure development in the region. We’ve become a dependable and strategic partner, deeply integrated into the success of the Rinconada Reliability Improvement Project.”
How have you refined your skillset to meet the growing needs of our client?
“Since joining Cordoba in 2019, I’ve steadily advanced my field expertise and earned certifications to strengthen client support and project delivery. My role on the Rinconada project evolved over time, and in 2023, I embraced the opportunity to expand my contributions on-site by pursuing additional training. With support from leadership, I completed the QSP certification, which enabled me to join the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) team.
To maintain a high standard of practice, I’ve also taken several refresher courses to stay current with regulatory requirements and field safety protocols. My ongoing commitment to adaptability, technical growth, and operational excellence continues to guide my work in the field.”
Why or what makes you proud to be a “Cordobian”?
“What makes me proud to be a Cordobian is the company’s commitment to its people. From day one, I’ve felt seen, supported, and trusted. Cordoba’s leadership has always made it clear that I’m not just a number – I’m part of a team that values my contributions.”
Background of the Interviewee:
Irene has been in the construction industry for 18 years, successfully managing start-to-finish execution of commercial projects. She holds several certifications including CPR & First Aid, OSHA Confined Spaces, OSHA30, and QSP Practitioner.
