2023 Women in Construction: Dina Soliman, Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects

What was your greatest professional achievement or most notable project in the last 12 months? The most notable project I have worked on recently is the renovation of Christa McAuliffe Center at the Framingham State University. The project is currently under construction. It consists of the renovation of the Challenger Center spaces; a center dedicated to teaching students ages K-12 about space and space missions. The project also has a planetarium component, of which we are upgrading the equipment to a state-of-the-art 4K laser illuminated fulldome projection system. The main challenge on this project is its fast track, and the fact that several project components have very specific design standards, which needed expansive coordination. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it also expanded my knowledge and kept me interested in what I do. 

What made you interested in seeking a career in the AEC industry? As a young child, I was always fascinated with buildings and architecture. I chose to study architectural engineering then completed further studies in design. I believe it is a very rewarding field. Designing and delivering a project is a complex process. It requires a lot of effort and involves expansive coordination of several variables, but as challenging as it is, the process is equally satisfying. Meeting with new clients, getting to understand their needs and project goals, designing and figuring out creative solutions to help them achieve those goals, and witnessing the evolution of our designs into actual physical structures and spaces for people to use, is fulfilling and rewarding.

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? I would advise them to research and understand what they are getting themselves into. If they find that the daily type of work and its challenges are what they aspire to do, then I would advise them to dive right in. As it is true in any industry, they will meet some people who will want to put them down but they will also meet a lot of people who will offer help, mentorship and support. Above all, I’d say: don’t be intimidated by anyone. Don’t be shy to ask questions or to make mistakes. This is how people learn.