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? Having a multifaceted and cross-trained team. Having two or three university degrees is certainly valuable, but having real world skills that we seek out and develop ourselves can advance us personally and professionally as well. Individual employees have their strong points and comfort zones with what they’re willing to take on, though continuing to grow and learn outside that comfort zone keeps the mind sharp and shapes skillsets to be adaptable to change. I have learned in my time at Acella that our team is capable of endless outcomes of success as a direct result of being multifaceted.

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? I’ve been inspired by many women who show confidence and determination in the workplace and go home to care for family and manage their household. Family coming first is essential for working parents and I’m fortunate enough to work for a company that shares that value. To the next generation, talk to people in person. You are your best advocate. Support other women. Stay true to yourself and do what feels right for you. If you need something or have a suggestion, speak up. There are infinite bad ideas, but the worst thing is to hold onto a great one due to fear of rejection.

What’s your favorite way to recharge or get inspired outside of work? Continuously staying busy – completing home projects, gardening, songwriting, playing with my kids.

Do you have a hidden talent or a surprising fact about yourself that most people wouldn’t know? I play guitar. Now I have the pleasure of playing music with my kids, which is heartwarming.