Local architect Herman Blas Cabrera stands at the construction site of one of his Capital Hill housing projects, which features advanced technology building materials.
Photo by Emmanuel T. Erediano
SENATE President Karl King-Nabors on Tuesday prefiled Senate Resolution 24-9 recognizing and commending local architect Herman Blas Cabrera for his “unyielding service and contributions to architecture, education, and public service as the first Saipan-born Chamorro licensed architect in the CNMI.”
King-Nabors noted in his resolution that Cabrera, who will turn 80 on Sept. 15, 2025, pursued a career in architecture by earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture from the University of Hawai‘i and a Bachelor of Education in Trade, Industry and Technical Education with concentrations in Trade-Architectural Design and Drafting, as well as Real Estate Development as a secondary degree.
Cabrera, who runs his own firm, Herman B. Cabrera & Associates, began his professional career during the Trust Territory period as a teacher and building planner at the Micronesian Occupational Center in Palau from 1969 to 1972. He later served as a capital improvement project planner and architect for the Department of Education/Public School System from 1975 to 1996.
According to the resolution, Cabrera “holds the noble distinction of being the first Saipan-born Chamorro native licensed to practice architecture in the Commonwealth, helping to establish a profession of architects during a time when the newly formed CNMI was experiencing significant economic growth, while providing his clients with architectural designs that are inspiring, affordable, and aesthetically suited to our geographical conditions.”
The resolution added that Cabrera “has overcome historical barriers in education, professional practice, and representation, allowing him to achieve a successful career. His passion and commitment to the Commonwealth have laid a foundation for future generations of local, aspiring professionals to explore architectural design.”
