Women Empowering Women
Over the past couple of years within the architecture and construction industry, women have rapidly begun to break the glass ceiling of a male-dominated industry. Within the last five years, women began fighting for representation within the design field and inspiring new generations of female architects to go above and beyond. This previous year, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that 27% of professionals in the Architecture industry and 10.9% of professionals in the Construction industry are women. It's exciting to see how the industry changes and gradually opens its doors to diversity.
Astonishingly, within the United States, 51% of the estimated 332 million people currently residing are women; over half of the population, so why are women still staggering behind? At least 45% of NCARB record applicants are women throughout this industry, and 39% are licensed architects. But the hard truth is, even though women are awarded the highest honors within architectural education and obtaining licensure, women are still struggling with recognition within the workforce. Compared to their male colleagues, women must climb the ladder due to numerous barriers from unequal pay, work-life balance, job roles and responsibilities, lack of gender balance, etc. So, what happens when women begin to break these barriers and receive the recognition they deserve? Once they obtain the recognition and move up in the architectural pipeline, her opportunities narrow due to the low representation of women in the discipline because women leaders within the profession are still at record lows. Think about it in any superior meeting, in-house team meeting, weekly observation calls, etc., within the industry; the female representation ratio is 1 female to 10 males or, in most cases, no females at all.
How can we change this? How can we begin to turn the tide and create an inclusive environment for women in this industry? We must start by rethinking the future within the architectural or construction community. Transparency in the workplace is vital; salaries shouldn't be gender-biased; they must be impartial and tangible. Women's inclusive design will create elaborate well-rounded design options within any firm and increase representation to trailblaze the way for young women in the field.
SMS is proud to announce that we currently comprise over 60% of women within our firm! Talk about breaking the barriers. Let's celebrate International Women's Month by getting to know some of our coworkers through a mini-interview.
CHRISTINA | Designer
Is there a different approach to design/architecture for (most) women compared to (most) men? If so, what?
"I think that every human has a different approach to design shaped by their own worldview and personal experiences. Most designers are heavily influenced by specific architects or designers they admire. Personally, my approach to design is heavily influenced by the work of Peter Zumthor."
LIN | Project Manager
Do you think women get the recognition they deserve in the industry for good design?
"Yes, I do think that women get the recognition they deserve in the industry for good design. I think the problem lies with the number of women that are high enough on the ladder to be a public persona. There are more men that lead the industry and, therefore, are more exposed to the public."
BRISA | Technical Designer
What is your take on the state of women in architecture today?
"Women in architecture are significantly underrepresented. It is felt in classrooms, meeting rooms, and job sites, but this is slowly starting to change right before our eyes which is amazing to witness. The state of women in architecture is evolving in the right direction and hopefully continues to trend each year upward as women need to encourage, uplift, and support each other both in academia and the profession to keep climbing the ladder built for men."
ADRIANA | Project Management Officer
What was your first job in the industry?
"That's my favorite question because, to this day, it was the most difficult job of my career. It was a 75 million / 240,000 SF car dealership, Newport Lexus. I worked in Project management for a Design-Build GC, and we had to oversee every phase of the project, from design development with all of the consultants to final clean with the subcontractors. The Client also asked us to finish half a year ahead of schedule to open over the 4th of July weekend, instead of Christmas, with only about 4 months notice to pull it off; We did it! I was only 23. Talk about sink or swim!"
BRIANNA | Office & Marketing Manager
What do you see as key for overcoming the issues (equal pay, underrepresentation, etc.) women face in the architectural profession?
"Women face many struggles in the workforce, especially in a male-dominated industry like architecture. I believe it's essential for women to be aware of their rights. Alongside that, I think women must use their voices to speak up. No one will listen to you if you don't verbally communicate. Most importantly, all women in the industry need to team up and support each other. Change happens in numbers!"
ESMERALDA | Technical Designer
How would you advise women architects to invest in their careers?
"It's time to develop confidence. It took me a little, but I learned that confidence enhances one's career. Always build trust within yourself and your team and ask questions when need be. Be genuine to your character, values, and beliefs because people will respect and trust you more when they see you as your true self. After all, being yourself will always let opportunity in for you. And most importantly, set boundaries, learn to delegate, and prioritize, don't become the "yes woman," and overwork yourself and burnout; the burnout culture is over!"
EMILY | Job Captain
When did you first become interested in architecture?
"I was raised in a fairly artistic household. I grew up taking as many art and design classes as possible. As I looked into future careers, I knew I wanted to go into something that could continue to encourage that interest. Architecture seemed to be the perfect balance that I was looking for."
BRANDI | Designer
When and where do you have your best ideas?
"When I need them, my best ideas never come to me; they spark in the most unexpected times. I tend to feed off the creativity around me, so visiting an amazing space or having a conversation with someone interesting often helps get the wheels turning. I would say about 60% of my ideas seem to strike when I am out doing things I enjoy: spending time outdoors, out with friends and family, or driving around singing my heart out. The other 40% hit me late at night because who can just turn their brain off and fall asleep?"
STEPHANIE | CFO & Principal
How would you describe your role, as an owner of an architecture firm, in shaping discussions about women in architecture?
"My goal as CFO and Principal of an Architecture Firm is not just to have a successful and profitable firm but to be a leader and provide guidance to all employees in their own goals pertaining to Architecture. As a woman in a field mostly dominated by men (for now), I provide a diverse voice and perspective that creates a more innovative workplace with a focus on equality. Traditionally women have better communication skills, are more empathetic, and are better problem-solvers, which gives us an edge at all firms but is especially helpful in the field of Architecture. I am hoping that future generations are seeing more and more women in positions such as mine it will motivate and empower them."
It's astonishing to hear from our coworkers and their perspective of being a part of this industry. We look forward to what the future holds for women in this industry!