The year 2020 has taught the world lessons beyond imagining: Empathy, Connection, Change, and Adaptability. How will we grow to learn from these hard lessons? What is the future of the architectural firm, the AEC industry, and firm policies? The pandemic gave firms a strong push into virtual work, whereas without it many would discuss […]
How Architectural Firms are Adapting in a Post-Covid World? Read More »
Many young students looking to pursue a career in architecture – and their parents – always ask, “What type of classes do you need to take and be good at? Is mathematics or arts more important for success in college and the profession?” Anyone in the profession understands that there is not one class that
Architecture : It Takes Grit Read More »
In an architectural firm, it is natural to have times where you may find yourself project-hopping. This is when, over short periods of time, you may support a project to hit a deadline, help with a proposal, or do some work during a busy time of construction management. You are on these projects for a
Michael Watkins surveyed 1,350 human resources leaders in 2008 and reported that 90% agreed that “Transitions into new roles are the most challenging times in the professional lives of leaders.” Michael Watkins, “The First 90 Days”. One’s career in the architectural profession is full of transitions, learning, and growth. The transitions are not always as
Career Dynamics: Transitions Read More »
What is a good firm? What makes every firm so unique? How do I know what I want in a firm culture? How do I know if a firm has a good culture? Firm culture for me, means that there is a sense of belonging between me, coworkers, firm leadership, and overall values. It is
Discerning Firm Culture Read More »
“When you have setbacks and failures, you can’t overreact to them. You need to step back, analyze them, and learn from them. But you also need to stay optimistic!” Angela Duckworth, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance It is important for professionals and mentors to understand and know the difference between a fixed mindset
Growth Mindset : Empower Young Professionals Read More »
It is time to look for your second full time architectural job out of college, but what’s important this time around? Preparing for an interview for that first job was fairly simple as you would have focused on projects you did in college and some internship experience. Is that still relevant? How do you show
Ready for Your Next Full Time Job? Read More »
The economic effects of Covid-19 have led companies to focus on trying to survive a situation that has no defined end. The architecture community is no exception. Based on the AIA’s “March 2020 Special Report: Moving ahead, challenging times confront the design professions,” two thirds of firms reported slowing or stoppage of projects due to
Learning from the Covid-19 Pandemic: Adaptive Retooling Read More »
My name is Kelly Cummings. I am an introverted extrovert, whose socks rarely match and has a strong dislike of pickles. I am a boomerang Pittsburgher, who grew up in the North Hills but has daringly crossed bridges and rivers to live just south of the city. When I was growing up, I never considered
Discovering My Career Through Passion: Kelly Cummings Read More »
COVID-19 is taking over discussions around the world. Sporting events cancelled. Television and movies stopped production. Restaurants and Bars are closed for service. Everyone is encouraged to practice social distancing. Most of the country is working from home and trying to stay healthy. Construction, for now, is still pushing forward. There is some positive light
The architecture profession does a great job at discussing the importance of having mentors and organizations like the AIA actively help individuals meet others with a passion for mentorship . However, there needs to be more discussions about moving towards the need to have a personal board of directors rather than a single mentor. A
Create A Personal Board of Directors Read More »
One of my favorite podcasts to listen to is Harvard Business School (HBR): Women at Work. Starting season 3, Amy Gallo joined as a new co host to the podcast. Amy works at HBR and is an expert in conflict, communication, and workplace dynamics. This post is going to talk more about her book, HBR
Dealing with Conflict Read More »
