How Identity Has Influenced An Architect And Partner At Frederick Fisher And Partners's Career
While acknowledging architecture's history as a "very male dominated field," the architect notes a positive shift, stating that "the tide is changing for the better" due to a growing business case for diversity. This professional also highlights the value of women's support networks and mentorship, citing "a certain tendency towards generosity among women" within architecture affinity groups as a crucial resource for career advancement and personal connections.
Architecture, Mentorship, Women in Architecture, Gender Diversity, Leadership
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Marisa Kurtzman
Architect, Partner
Frederick Fisher and Partners
Wesleyan University, BA 1999
Yale School of Architecture, B.Arch 2006
History, Art History
Architecture, Construction & Design
Creative
Honors Student
Video Highlights
1. Marisa has had a positive experience, encountering minimal bias in a traditionally male-dominated field.
2. The industry is evolving, with a growing business case for diversity, benefiting firms with varied perspectives.
3. Mentorship and support networks among women architects have been valuable resources for professional and personal growth.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a woman, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
Architecture has traditionally been a very male-dominated field. I personally have not experienced a huge amount of bias in that direction; I've been very lucky in that sense.
But I also think times are changing. Now, I think frankly, we are getting a business case for improving the diversity of our industry. Clients want to work with firms who have a more diverse background and a diverse perspective. So, in that sense, I think the tide is changing for the better.
I personally believe in women supporting women. I have found that there is a certain tendency towards generosity among women. I have found that there are a number of architecture affinity groups that are more focused on women. Those have been really great resources for both professional advice and personal connections.