Mariana Pickering

Mariana Giselle Pickering is a storyteller at heart, with a knack for turning complex building science into narratives that inspire action. With over 15 years of experience at the intersection of architecture, sustainability, and education, she has dedicated her career to making technical knowledge accessible and actionable. Armed with a Master’s in Design Science from the University of Sydney and a BA in Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis, Mariana first built an architectural practice in Italy before bringing her expertise to the U.S. Rocky Mountains. There, she became a recognized leader in Passive House training, helping construction professionals reimagine what’s possible in high-performance building. Resilient and pragmatic, Mariana thrives in spaces where communication meets impact. She excels at fostering collaboration, crafting strategies that bridge disciplines, and distilling big ideas into messages that move people. Now, she’s channeling her expertise into serving as an AmeriCorps VISTA, focused on capacity building for poverty eradication, conservation management, strategic leadership, and science communication—always with a commitment to driving meaningful change.