Get to know some of the ULI San Francisco members who work hard behind the scenes to develop the events and initiatives for which our District Council is known. These industry leaders come from a variety of real estate land use sectors and lend their expertise and time to drive the work of our committees. We’ve asked these committee leaders to answer questions about their involvement with ULI San Francisco.

The Technical Assistance for Communities (TA4C) committee offers a range of technical advice, educational resources, and professional development opportunities to help cities, counties, public agencies, and communities enhance their understanding of the processes and advance the development of more sustainable and vibrant communities.

Mariana Ricker, Technical Assistance for Communities (TA4C) Co-Chair
Associate Principal, SWA Group

Q: How did you first get involved with ULI and your committees?

A: I was introduced to ULI through a former SWA principal, Elizabeth Shreeve. It all began when she recommended me as the writer for my first TAP with the City of San Jose in January 2020. I’m extremely grateful for Elizabeth’s support and have followed in her footsteps with TA4C leadership as well as the Sustainable Development Product Council.

Q: What’s a memorable connection you’ve made through ULI?

A: It’s hard to pick just one, as ULI has become such a large part of my life and network over the last six years. One person I met during DEV360 (a great program!) was Kristen DiStefano with Atelier 10. After her presentation, we had the opportunity to collaborate on a handful of climate action efforts together.

Q: What keeps you engaged with ULI SF, and what are you most excited about in the near future?

A: I love the way ULI brings people together across the professional spectrum. I continue to be amazed by what can be accomplished by a dedicated TAP panel, and I’m enjoying the expanded network of the sustainability-focused CA-NV Technical Assistance Leadership Exchange.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish in the next year?

A: As co-chair, I’m proud of the pipeline we have for 2026 TAPs. We’re always looking for more opportunities to partner with additional cities, and we’re exploring ways to better highlight themes and impact!

Q: What’s your leadership philosophy/style?

A: I believe the more collaborative the process, the better the outcome. Personally, I like to listen first, help to connect different threads of the discussion, and clearly communicate back to the team. Also, I love a good tracking spreadsheet.

Q: What’s front of mind for you right now?

A: I’ve spent a lot of time over the last few years focused on decarbonization of the built environment. Time really isn’t on our side, and I think the work is more important now than ever. I’m looking for new ways to embed climate action into all that I do and expand my sustainability network.

Q: Outside of work and ULI, what do you enjoy doing?

A: In addition to spending time outdoors and hanging out with my dog, friends, and family, I love food. Eating out, cooking at home, and thinking about food in between.

Q: What has been your most unusual role to date?

A: Landscape Architecture wasn’t actually my first professional license – I spent several summers working as a boat taxi operator at a lake in the Sierras. It was truly the best summer job, and I’ve even kept my license up to date so I can occasionally volunteer to help out.

Thank you, Mariana, for all your work on our TA4C committee!