What drew you to a career in construction, despite it being traditionally male-dominated?

I was fortunate enough to have a lot of female mentors who work in construction. My aunt has a degree in civil engineering. I went to her alma mater for high school where I my engineering teacher took me to my first NOMA (National Organization of Minority Architects) conference. When I saw all the student models and projects at NOMA , I knew architecture was what I wanted to do.

What’s one professional skill you’re currently working on? Maybe an anecdote about you currently working towards licensing, and how that is as a growing female in the industry.

I am currently working on my project management skills. Project management isn’t just about the thing you study for on the ARE like budget and the completed drawing but also about managing the people working with and helping them develop their skills.

What’s the best career advice you’ve received from another woman?

Don’t be afraid to speak up when you know the answer but also don’t be afraid to ask questions.

What’s the coolest project you’ve worked on? How did this impact your career?

Belhaven Apartments was my first apartment building. It’s not the coolest but it’s the most memorable because it was the one of the most complex buildings I’ve ever worked on. It taught me so any things that I still apply today when I design.