How Can Architects Redefine Leadership and Success in a Changing Profession?

In this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee takes the guest chair as Caitlin Brady, AIA, flips the script for a reflective and thought-provoking season finale. Caitlin, a Project Architect, inclusion advocate, and host of the podcast Architectette, leads this candid discussion about the evolution of career paths in architecture. Together, they explore lessons in leadership, generational dynamics in the workplace, and balancing personal and professional identities.

The conversation begins with Evelyn’s reflections on pivotal career moments, including her transition out of traditional practice and into tech, and her current journey as an entrepreneur. Caitlin and Evelyn discuss how architecture professionals can adapt to generational shifts, navigate hybrid work models, and challenge traditional definitions of success. They also delve into the value architects bring to their clients beyond design and explore how innovation can redefine the profession’s future.

"We have to rethink how architects approach their clients’ needs, not just for new buildings but in the spaces in between." – Evelyn Lee

The episode wraps with Evelyn’s outlook on 2025, including her hopes for architects to embrace flexibility, mentorship, and entrepreneurship as tools for success in an evolving industry.

Guest: Caitlin Brady, AIA, LEED BD+C

Caitlin Brady is a Project Architect and Associate at Ayers Saint Gross, where she specializes in higher education architecture. With over a decade of experience, she champions inclusion in the profession as an ACE Mentor, AIA volunteer, and host of Architectette, a podcast amplifying women’s voices in AEC. In 2023, Caitlin received the AIA|DC Emerging Architect Award for her contributions to the industry.

📍 Show Links:  

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