Outstanding Women of Valencia County:

Victoria Archuleta

Published March 13, 2025 - 5:00 a.m. Modified March 13, 2025 - 12:14 p.m.

Victoria Archuleta is the senior economic developer for the village of Los Lunas.

She is a seventh-generation native New Mexican and the granddaughter of Mexican immigrants. Born and raised in Albuquerque, her family roots hail from Northern New Mexico, specifically the village of Wagon Mound and Mora County. She is a member of the boards of director of the Greater Valencia County Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Los Lunas.

She was the UNM Anderson School of Management’s 2024 Spring commencement graduate keynote speaker; Albuquerque the Magazine Superwomen Recognition (October 2024); named “The Visionary” for creative leadership and ingenuity in business; New Mexico ChangeMakers Fellow (2024); Albuquerque Business First 40 Under 40 Honoree (2023).

What made you decide to pursue the career path you’re currently on?

“I was inspired by the strong, trailblazing women in economic development who paved the way before me. This type of work was always exciting to me, so when the opportunity arose, I seized it! Today, many of the women I once looked up to have become great friends and mentors.”

Whatis the biggest challenge and most rewarding aspect of your profession?

“The biggest challenge is meeting the diverse and demanding needs of a growing community, especially as a division of one. The most rewarding part is seeing real results — businesses growing, people finding gainful employment and families benefiting from the opportunities I’ve helped create.”

What advice do you have for aspiring women looking to advance their careers?

“Toot your own horn — if you don’t, no one else will. Confidence and self-advocacy are essential in advancing your career. Believe in your worth, speak up and take credit for your accomplishments, and take up space in every room you enter.

“Surround yourself with mentors, who challenge and uplift you and never stop seeking opportunities for growth. Most importantly, as you rise, lift others with you — success is most powerful when it’s shared.”

What is one of your accomplishments that you are most proud of?

“One of my proudest accomplishments is being the first-generation and first woman in my family to attend a four-year university and continuing on to earn my executive MBA in global leadership. Breaking that barrier was incredibly meaningful — not just for me, but for all my family members that followed and turn to me for support.

“As a first-generation college graduate, I know firsthand the power of education in creating opportunities and changing the trajectory of a family. That journey has fueled my passion for economic development and my commitment to making a lasting impact in New Mexico.”

How do you stay motivated and inspired as a leader?

“My grandmother is my greatest supporter, especially after my mom’s passing in July 2024. She keeps me grounded and will always hype me up when I need it.

“I’m also deeply motivated to set a positive example for my 15-year-old sister (who is now in my care after our mom’s passing) to show her that hard work, education and determination can create a brighter future. I also take time to disconnect and go for walks with my dog.”

Who was/is your role model or mentor?

“My grandmother is my role model. She came to the U.S. alone and built a beautiful life for her family from nothing. Professionally, I’ve been lucky to learn from many amazing women in business and economic development circles who’ve supported and inspired me in my journey.”