San Francisco Bay Area
Since 2022, this group has connected the queer community across San Francisco, Oakland, and beyond.
Upcoming Events
One of the best ways to connect is by joining us at an upcoming event.
How It All Began
With the relocation of a board member to the West Coast, it was natural to form a group in the San Francisco Bay. The group maintains a relaxed West Coast identity while expanding our presence and awareness, creating a welcoming environment for the queer community in the industry.
Our City Co-Chairs
Diego Ramirez
Originally from Colombia, Diego moved to California to embrace his identity as an out professional in the industry. Now a city planner at Arup, he is deeply passionate about the intersection of equity, infrastructure, and housing—particularly in addressing the disproportionate impact of homelessness on trans people of color. As a San Francisco Bay Area City Co-Chair, Diego is committed to fostering a more inclusive and connected community, helping queer professionals bring their authentic selves to work. With a strong background in DEI leadership, including his role as a regional lead for Arup’s LGBTQ+ employee resource group, he actively works to amplify queer voices and drive meaningful change across the industry.
Have any questions? Shoot me an email at dramirez@buildoutalliance.org.
Jordan Blacker
Originally from England, Jordan moved to San Francisco in 2024 and quickly became involved with Build Out Alliance to help strengthen connections within the queer community. In 2025, he stepped into the role of Bay Area Co-Chair, bringing a proactive and energetic approach to expanding our reach and fostering meaningful partnerships. As an architectural designer at HKIT Architects, Jordan is passionate about universal design and creating inclusive, accessible spaces. He is committed to ensuring that queer professionals across the Bay Area have access to resources, mentorship, and a thriving community.
Have some questions? Shoot me an email at jblacker@buildoutalliance.org.
How To Get Involved
Learn more about the local committees that keep our San Francisco Bay group going. Not seeing one you like? Check out our national committees for more opportunities to get involved.
Committee Co-Chairs
Eliana Rightmyer
erightmyer@buildoutalliance.org
Isaac Alcantar
ialcantar@buildoutalliance.org
Robert Gilson
rgilson@buildoutalliance.org
Community Building Committee
This committee brings together the queer community in the greater San Francisco Bay area through social, networking, and other casual events.
Committee Co-Chairs
Haley Bendis
hbendis@buildoutalliance.org
Niklas Thorsrud
nthorsrud@buildoutalliance.org
Professional Programming Committee
This committee crafts professional development and related programs to bring opportunities for learning and growth.
