2024 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Colby Cavanagh, Maugel DeStefano Architects

“We recently promoted Colby to Healthcare & Sciences Studio Leader in recognition of her successful 15-year career managing complex projects for clients across the healthcare and sciences industry. Her excellent leadership, project management, and technical design skills enable her to execute the most challenging projects, while consistently surpassing clients’ expectations. Colby’s down-to-earth approach coupled with an innate ability to flawlessly translate our clients’ needs into exceptional architecture make her a true Rising Star.” - Jonathan Cocker, Principal at Maugel DeStefano Architects

How do you balance your rising career with your personal life? Balance is not necessarily my goal, as there are many times when I’m needed more in one area of my life than another. However, setting clear boundaries and engaging in healthy communication helps me navigate my day-to-day activities. In my work and home life, things can change with a phone call. As a mom of three little kids, efficiency allows me to manage a demanding schedule while ensuring I can be my best self for my family and my clients.

Outside of your career, where else do you seek continuous learning and personal growth? In everyday life, as in my work, I’m always looking for creative ways to learn, grow and engage in new ways of thinking. I’m constantly learning from my daily interactions with clients and industry professionals and stay on the lookout for new learning opportunities, personally and professionally. Outside of the office, I like to challenge myself to try new things and step, or sometimes push myself, out of my comfort zone.