Do you have a hidden talent or a surprising fact about yourself that most people wouldn’t know? I have a habit of seeing something and immediately assuming, “I could do that.” I almost always pull it off, though it usually turns out to be a larger endeavor than I expected. The latest iteration of this cycle led me to learn how to paint and hand-embroider custom sneakers and jackets for my family this Christmas.

Who or what has inspired you most in your career, and what advice would you share with the next generation of women entering the A/E/C industry? The women who have inspired me most are those in my family, specifically my mother and her sisters. Their strength, intelligence, persistence, and passion – all of which they learned from my grandmother – have shaped my understanding of success, work ethic, and resilience. I’ve been fortunate to find that my mother-in-law shares these same attributes, along with an incredible emotional intelligence that allows her to confidently rely on others to help achieve her goals while doing the same for them. To the next generation of women entering the industry, I encourage you not to underestimate the power and opportunities that come from collaborating with and supporting each other.

What trends or innovations do you believe will shape the future of your field, and how are you positioning yourself (or your firm) to be at the forefront? One of the most significant trends shaping the future of the A/E/C industry is the decreasing social stigma surrounding trade schools and skilled labor. The rise of social media and more equitable access to information have provided greater visibility into the rewarding and impactful careers that the trades offer. A critical challenge we face is the retirement of the baby boomer generation, which comprises the largest portion of our workforce, combined with a notable decline in younger generations pursuing trade careers due to the long-standing belief that a degree is the only path to success. However, the increasing exposure to trade careers through social networks and platforms is helping to change this narrative, piquing the interest of individuals—especially women—who may not have otherwise considered a career in a skilled trade.