AWA+D Salon
May 20, 2013 7:00 pm
Home of Stephanie Reich
On April 30, we had a rich and engaging conversation about the challenges that women face in the architecture profession, including issues that face women and issues facing the profession as a whole. On Monday, May 20, we will discuss what we as a group (Salon, AWA +D) and individuals can do to assist young women coming up in the profession.
Issues discussed:
· Attrition of women – many graduate but don’t proceed to licensure
· Challenge of balancing career with home and other life aspects
· Certain tasks are identified as “female” and are usually less desirable or respected
· When women comment on others it is seen as personal rather than professional
· Women still viewed as less technically oriented – when it comes to building or BIM technology
· Men and women have different styles and values – men value competition, women value collaboration
· Female employers have not been especially supportive of women working for them
Challenges for the profession:
· Number of architects employed by architecture firms is down from 230,000 to 130,000
· Schools and graduating students are plentiful while profession is narrowing
· Profession has narrowed to a point where architects are no longer looked to to solve problems
· Management courses in school would assist young architects as they start out
How can we help others?
· Mentorship important – taking an interest and providing advice and support
· Sponsorship is when a senior takes an interest in a person, knows their goals and pushes for you – a mentor with influence
Please RSVP by Friday May 17 to Stephanie Reich.
Refreshments provided – bring a beverage or small snack if you wish.