Being a female leader in architecture can be challenging at times.  However, there are also many amazing opportunities to share experiences and be inspired by other women in the industry.  This year’s AIA Women's Leadership Summit on September 23^rd and 24^th was one such opportunity.  The event was held in Kansas City, MO.  This was my first trip to Kansas City and it was a pleasure to discover the inspirational architecture that creates the fabric of the city.  The city's revitalization investment has paid off in a BIG way.  As part of the summit, we were able to participate in private tours of the new Kauffman Performing Arts Center, a Moshe Safdie / BNIM project and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, a Stephen Holl / BNIM project.

The summit itself was filled with impressive moments.  I often forget about all of the distinct challenges that our profession delivers to practicing women.  Women comprise 50% of the graduating classes in architecture programs, yet only 10% of women hold upper leadership/ownership positions in architecture design firms.  We discussed many reasons for this reality and the steps to take for progress.

The summit also allowed me to visit with many amazing women, but one woman stood out, for me, because of her experience.  I was able to spend a few hours one-on-one with Beverly Willis, FAIA.  In her career, she played a pivotal role in many national issues.  I was able to hear about her experiences first-hand on the challenges for women in leadership from professional to personal for the span of her impressive career.  I feel honored that I was able to spend time with her.

For more information on Beverly Willis, please visit:  http://beverlywillis.com/index.lasso

For more information on the summit please visit:  http://www.aia.org/about/initiatives/AIAB089550

GSC Architects Principal Beth Guillot

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