Which Career Path In Landscape Architecture Will You Take?
October 2nd at 4 p.m. MST | 2026 Distinguished Alum Lecture
About Lecture:
Review of different career paths that are available for landscape architects; including experiences in working for a non-profit, private sector firms, and a large public sector agency. A discussion of challenges, successes, and opportunities for growth in all areas.Bio:
Joe Diaz Jr. is a licensed landscape architect that has worked both in the private and public sector throughout his career. His primary focus has been on working with communities and developing spaces that encourage community connections, safe durable spaces, and maintaining the integrity of the surrounding environment.
Early in his career, Joe contributed to a wide range of residential and public projects while working with PDSA and James Dalton and Associates. His work spanned multiple states, including California, Texas, South Carolina, Illinois, Nevada, Colorado, and Arizona. These developments integrated thoughtfully designed entry monuments, community parks, gathering spaces, fountains, lakes, and pedestrian connectivity. During this period, he also collaborated on many government park projects around the country further solidifying his commitment to public-facing design.
Joe’s most significant and enduring contributions have been realized through his leadership with the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. As the Parks Department Principal Landscape Architect, he managed all Parks and Recreation development projects for the largest municipal park system in the nation. His team managed 90+ projects annually which included master plan processes, construction documents, and the management of construction of projects. Joe has impacted 189 park sites, 41,000+ acres of preserve land, and land acquisition of future preserves and flatland parks.
Joe’s recent focus has been on sustainability and currently works with the state organization, Arizona Forward, to develop practices and policies to minimize water waste, energy efficient practices, and preservation of natural areas.