Nick Raccosta – Architect-In-Training
Getting published in the Arizona State University Architecture Journal as well as two other campus publications are not Nick’s only memorable achievements. This Pennsylvania native also earned a BSD in architecture with a minor in sustainability in 2016 and a master’s in architecture in 2019 from ASU.
As a young boy, Nick loved drawing, creating, and building with Legos, k’nex, and even random found objects. It soon became clear that a career in architecture was in his future. He arrived in Phoenix in 2012 for college, loved it and never left. His favorite aspects of his profession include design, creativity, problem-solving, communication, and transforming clients’ dreams into real life.
Nick also has an entrepreneurial spirit. In 2019, this environmental and outdoors enthusiast co-founded Strax Gear, LLC, which focuses on repurposing plastic waste and turning it into durable outdoor gear racks and apparel.
Let’s find out more about Nick.
Describe your family. You could say they are undoubtedly AWESOME. I grew up with both of my parents and two sisters (some might say they’re like my little bros, sometimes). It’s a pretty big, but tight-knit extended family. Growing up, we all got together for every birthday, holiday, graduation to celebrate—always tons of food and great times. Outside of blood relatives, I consider each and every one of my close friends an extension of my family both back home and here in Arizona.
What was your most favorite/memorable job as a teenager? Cutting grass and landscape design with one of my best buddies, never mind getting in a little trouble mixed with some hard rewarding work. We always had a good time with each job we did.
Free-time activities? Hiking/backpacking, snowboarding, off-roading, mountain biking, traveling—truly anything outdoors. Building and running a small business with a couple of close buddies, which is based around the outdoors, sustainability and gear storage (Strax Gear). Spending quality time with the people I love.
You’ve won the lottery. How would you spend your time? Traveling, lots of outdoor excursions, real estate, investments
Dream destination? To summit each of the Seven Summits
Favorite movie genre? Action/adventure, thriller
One life lesson have you learned so far? Take risks, be positive, work smart, work hard, play harder
