Significant Career Lesson From a Landscape Designer at Siegfried Engineering
Regina, a first-generation Latina Landscape Designer II, noted the significant impact of observing a lack of diversity in the landscape architecture field, stating "it was very impactful to see that there weren't that many women and that many Latinas out there." Despite the initial challenge of finding "people who you identify with," this experience ultimately led to the realization that diverse, supportive groups can be found within individual companies.
Overcoming Challenges, Industry Realities, Workplace Challenges, Diversity and Inclusion, Career Exploration
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Regina Paredes Martinez
Landscape Designer II
Siegfried Engineering
University of California Davis
n/a
Architecture, Interior Design
Consulting & Related Professional Services
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Immigrant, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. "Lack of diversity in landscape architecture is impactful but don't let that discourage you."
2. "Finding your niche and identifying with others is important but you will find a diverse group within your company."
3. "There are Latinos working on sites, but not many in the professional world."
Transcript
What is one lesson you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
I am a first-generation Latina. I will say that it was very impactful to see the lack of diversity, especially in the professional world. It is not very common for Latinos to pursue a career in landscape architecture.
In college, my cohort had about 60 people, and only about five of us were Latino. Of those, only three were Latina women.
It can be hard to find your niche and people you identify with, but don't let that discourage you. You will find a diverse group within your company.
It was very impactful to see that there weren't many women, and specifically Latinas, in the field. There are Latinos working on sites, but not in professional roles.