2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Katelyn Witt, VIVO Architecture

“In a firm setting, the timelines are tight and ideas compete for attention, Katelyn brings a balance of confidence and listening, knowing when to advocate fiercely for a concept and when to evolve it through collaboration. This balance is a quiet strength, one that transforms superior design into meaningful, lasting work. Whether it’s through material selection, spatial flow, or subtle choreography of light and texture, her work speaks to both function and emotion.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role? I’ve had a passion for this industry from a young age. I have always been drawn to how spaces are designed, the finishes, the details, and how a space can influence the way people feel and interact. My career has grown through a combination of hands-on experience and continuous learning. As I’ve developed professionally, that initial interest has expanded beyond design into how projects are executed. Through my experience in lighting and project coordination, I’ve developed a strong appreciation for how spaces not only look, but how they perform.

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of? One of the accomplishments is where I am able to see my growth from start to finish. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone and required me to take on more responsibilities than I had before. What made it meaningful was not just the end result, but how much I developed throughout the process. Becoming more confident in my decision making, communication and ability to see a project in full completion.

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you? A combination of strong professional mentors and my family have been the biggest contributors to my success. I’ve been fortunate to work with individuals who have truly invested in my growth, challenging me, supporting me, and encouraging me to continuously expand my skill set. At the same time, my family has been a constant source of support, always motivating me to pursue new opportunities and remain confident in my path. The most valuable advice they’ve shared with me is to keep asking questions and never stop learning.