CHANDLER — At 17, Kaya Orona was known in her community as a rising basketball talent with college prospects. Within a short time, a diagnosis of Lyme disease abruptly changed her path, leaving her unable to walk and forcing her to leave the scholarships and plans she had worked for.
Now 26, Orona has returned to Arizona’s professional landscape in a new role: as a Preconstruction Manager with The PENTA Building Group. Her work includes planning tribal gaming, healthcare and hospitality projects across the state, and her path from athlete to industry leader reflects a personal reinvention that resonates with many in Chandler and beyond.
From athlete to architect and advocate
After stepping away from sports, Orona rebuilt her future through education and service. She graduated as valedictorian from the University of Arizona's architecture program, established a scholarship in memory of a late classmate and mentors young women pursuing construction careers. Her company recently recognized her with a Diversity Award for work supporting Indigenous communities and emerging industry leaders.
- Lost mobility in late teens due to Lyme disease.
- Graduated valedictorian from the University of Arizona architecture program.
- Works on major tribal, healthcare and hospitality projects across Arizona.
- Created a scholarship and mentors young women in construction.
- Received her company's Diversity Award for work with Indigenous communities.
Her story is one of resilience: reimagining a career, then using that position to lift others.
Local impact and wider trends
Orona’s career intersects with several broader trends visible in Arizona: the growth of tribal gaming and hospitality development, increased attention to diversity in construction trades, and local efforts to expand mentorship and scholarships for women entering STEM and building professions. For Chandler residents, her trajectory underscores how local talent can influence projects that shape communities statewide.
| Year/Stage | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Age 17 | Basketball standout; lost ability to walk after illness |
| College | Valedictorian, University of Arizona, architecture |
| Present | Preconstruction Manager at The PENTA Building Group; mentor and scholarship founder |
Her work mentoring women and supporting Indigenous communities points to practical ways established professionals in Chandler and across Arizona can help diversify the trades and professional fields. For neighbors watching, Orona’s story offers a reminder that career paths can change dramatically — and that reinvention can bring broader benefits to the community.
