Velasquez Inspires Lifelong Learning as First Woman MCP in South Texas

A local trailblazer, Natalia Velasquez, Chief Building Official for the City of Edinburg is the first woman in the South Texas area to earn the International Code Council’s Master Code Professional (MCP) designation, joining a continually growing number of women MCPs worldwide.

Additionally, she is the only woman building official in her area to hold a rare mix of credentials including Certified Building Official, Licensed Master Electrician, Code Enforcement Officer, 28 Code Council certifications and State Plumbing Inspector.

“The MCP certification has given me extensive knowledge and confidence in my role,” said Velasquez. “It matters because it allows me to better understand complex projects and handle challenging situations with clarity and expertise. It’s a mark of credibility in the industry.”

As detailed in Episode 61 of the ICC Pulse podcast, the MCP is the Code Council’s highest level of certification. MCPs hold 17 or more Code Council certifications and are generally responsible for all technical and management aspects of code enforcement. A benefit to the code enforcement profession as well as their communities, MCP duties range from managing a code enforcement department to supervising inspectors and plan reviewers.

Velasquez started working on her first MCP certification in 2005.

“It took time and steady effort, especially while raising three kids,” said Velasquez. “I studied consistently, leaned on mentors and stayed committed to learning. It was a long journey, but one I truly enjoyed.”

A Passion for Building Safety Sparked in Childhood

Valasquez’s building safety career started early by accompanying her father on his electrical work.

“I was a curious and energetic kid, and my mom encouraged my dad to take me along on weekends and summer vacations,” said Velasquez. “Those experiences sparked a genuine interest in the trades and laid the foundation for my career in building safety.”

As a teenager, she met Luis Vasquez, an early mentor whom she met on job sites when he worked as a building inspector. Velasquez said his professionalism and the respect he commanded left a lasting impression.

“Later, when he became the chief building official for the City of McAllen, I was fortunate to work alongside him,” she explained. “By that time, he had already earned the MCP certification and was the first person in the area to achieve it. His mentorship and accomplishments inspired me to pursue the same certification.”

Building Safety Career and Leadership Highlights

As her career journey continues, Velasquez highlights her current top three achievements:

“First, I’m proud to have contributed to building a strong and efficient Building Safety Department in the City of Edinburg,” she said. “We’ve worked hard to set clear objectives and maintain high standards.”

Second, she earned her Master Electrician license through the Southern Building Code Congress International, Inc. in 2001, which she later reciprocated with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

“Third, I hold a Code Enforcement license with TDLR and a Plumbing Inspector license with the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. These certifications reflect my commitment to professionalism and continuous learning,” she emphasized.

But most importantly, she said she’s proud of her family.

“Last and most importantly, I’m most proud of being a wife and mom to three wonderful teenagers,” said Velasquez. “My journey has been driven by a passion for both my career and my family, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to balance both.”

And her father?

“My dad always told me to do my best at whatever I chose, and I can proudly say that I’ve made him proud,” she said.

Getting Involved With the Code Council

Moving ahead, Velasquez said she looks forward to furthering her involvement with the Code Council in any capacity.

“I am an active member of the Valley Building Officials Association and the Building Officials Association of Texas where I support initiatives focused on education and professional development. I also serve as Chair of the South Texas College Electrical Advisory Board.”

Velasquez notes that the City of Edinburg has been a member of the Code Council and its predecessor agencies since 1956 as shown in the certificate accompanying this article.

Top Tips for the Next Generation of Building Safety Professionals

Now a mentor herself, Velasquez emphasizes and demonstrates continuous learning for those entering the building safety industry.

“Always stay curious and committed to learning,” she said. “Codes and standards are constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay informed. A mindset of lifelong learning will serve you well in this profession.”

Velasquez also encourages other women to pursue MCP certification.

“Go, girls!” she emphasized. “We are worthy. We are capable. We can endure challenges and make our dreams a reality. Don’t let anything hold you back.”

To learn more about the Code Council’s MCP designation, click here.