8: Empowering Design Professionals - Alexandra Chaves

mentorDINO

Welcome to the mentorDINO Interview Series!

Alexandra Chavez, project manager at Restructure Studio, shares her journey as an architect and a working mom. She discusses the challenges and joys of balancing work and parenthood, the importance of finding mentors both within and outside of the office, and the opportunities for immigrant architects. Alexandra also highlights the work of the AIA Austin Chapter, including their initiatives for diversity, scholarships, and networking events. In this conversation, Alexandra Chaves discusses her involvement in empowering women in architecture and the impact of various organizations on her journey. She also shares her experience with AIA and NCARB and her interest in other organizations. Alexandra provides advice on balancing work and life and offers guidance for young professionals starting their careers.

Takeaways

• Balancing work and parenthood is possible with the right support and work-life balance.
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• Finding mentors, both within and outside of the office, is crucial for personal and professional growth.
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• Immigrant architects should not be discouraged by rejection and should pursue their career goals with determination.
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• Getting involved in professional organizations like the AIA can provide networking opportunities and support for architects.
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• Residential design offers the opportunity to work directly with clients and create spaces that enhance their lives. Getting involved in organizations and programs can connect you with like-minded individuals and provide opportunities for growth and support.
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• Organizations like AAAS and AIA can have a significant impact on personal and professional development.
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• Balancing work and life requires organization and prioritization.
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• Networking and building relationships are essential for career advancement.
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my instagram https://www.instagram.com/achavesmuller/

my linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrachaves/

Restructure Studio instagram https://www.instagram.com/restructurestudio/

WiA Austin instagram https://www.instagram.com/wia_austin/

WiA linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/women-in-architecture-austin/

WiA Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@AIAAustin

WiA Profiles only youtube playlist for this year interviews https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctI0UL75oKg&list=PL64jfwlSDBrQSAbv75VdjowCTLutMZ4-4

Gustavo Bernal Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustavobernal/

Gustavo Bernal website https://www.gusbernal.com/about

0:00 Welcome

1:01 Introduction to Alexandra & Restructure Studio

3:38 Balancing Work and Parenthood

7:45 Transition to Licensure

13:50 Balancing Work in a Small Firm

17:00 Advice for Working with Part-Time Employees

19:55 Residential Design

23:00 Advice for Foreign Professionals

28:06 Advice for Finding Mentors

30:50 WIA Profiles Series & WIA Austin

43:00 AIAS Lasting Career Impact

45:30 Balancing Work and Life

47:00 Advice for Young Professionals

mentorDINO Channel

Hello! I'm Katelyn Rossier, a licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I created this company to help AEC professionals through career transitions and professional development. This channel was created to provide free discussions with you that I have with professionals across the industry to help you learn, grow, and define your own path.

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