2023 Women in Construction: Marissa Dionne Mead, Svigals + Partners

Which professional associations or organizations would you recommend to women who are starting out in the AEC industry? I absolutely encourage participation in industry-specific organizations like AIA and NOMA. These organizations offer so many ways to network, grow leadership skills, and contribute on a local, regional or even national level. AEC professionals have a lot to contribute outside our immediate professional world, as well; and for that reason, I recommend getting involved in local advocacy groups that are tangential to our industry, such as housing equity, land-use reform, preservation, park stewardship. The list goes on. Our home communities need our skills in creativity, collaboration and problem solving. Find an issue that you’re passionate about and get involved.

What was a pivotal point in your career? Early in my career I was doing what many young architects do – sitting at a desk drafting floor plans and bathroom elevations. I’d begun to doubt whether my work had meaning. Then, I got to work on a new public school which incorporated an accessible playground, community library, civic space, public-facing art and a new bus stop. When the school opened, a neighborhood shop owner exclaimed, “Look at this beautiful new building in our neighborhood. This beautiful new building - for us!” In that moment I realized our buildings had impact well beyond their footprints. Over the years I’ve continued to lean into the social aspect of the built environment, finding ways to contribute to improved community health and wellbeing.