2023 Women in Construction: Elizabeth Lowrey, Elkus Manfredi Architects

What made you interested in seeking a career in the AEC industry? My interest in design is rooted in my love of people. Whether we’re working on a corporate headquarters, life science lab, multi-family residence, or hotel, I am inspired by collaborating with clients and teams to design inclusive spaces that create community, enhance peoples’ lives, and help them thrive. I grew up in a family of artists and designers, and spent hours sketching fantasy homes and resorts for people to enjoy. I was lucky – I knew by the age of six that I wanted to be an architect, and moved to interior architecture in college when I learned more about it.

What tips or advice would you offer to other women who are considering entering the construction industry? Build a network. You need that circle of support. It goes without saying that you have to be good at what you do, but if you’re good at what you do and you don’t have a network, you can’t advance. And the most important aspect of building your network is this: your relationships must be reciprocal – you will give and you will receive at different times. Take good care of those relationships that you build. They will turn out to be among the most rewarding of your life and career.