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(Replay) 008: Evelyn Lee: Tech, Transformation, and Disruption within Architecture

Architectette
Architectette
Episode • Jun 9 • 41m

On today's podcast we are resharing our interview with Evelyn Lee.

Evelyn started in architecture but is now the first-ever Global Head of Workplace Strategy & Innovation at Slack Technologies. She is also the Founder of the Practice of Architecture, Co-Host of the Podcast, Practice Disrupted; and is extremely involved in the AIA, most notably serving as the first-ever female Treasurer to the AIA National Board from 2020-2021.

Evelyn has been widely published in Contract Magazine, Architect Magazine, and is currently working with Architizer to develop recurring content on the business of architecture. 

She is a recognized innovator in the profession and has received numerous industry awards, including the 2016 40 Under 40 award for Building Design + Construction and the 2014 AIA National Young Architects Award. 


We talk about: 

- How Evelyn was inspired to study architecture and balanced it- from the start- with other commitments that were important to her, like playing collegiate soccer. 

- We next review qualifications and expectations for achieving FAIA recognition.

- Evelyn shares about her experience as the first employee at her firm to have a baby and how she negotiated a maternity and return to work plan with her employer.

- Next, we chat about the Practice of Architecture and how Evelyn leverages her MBA and MPA to work with business owners to make their operations more efficient.

- We then talk about what architecture firms can learn from Slack’s stance on in-person and remote work strategies.

- Evelyn then elaborates on small changes that make a big impact on worker engagement like core hours, personal operating manuals, and dial-in policies.

- We end with a few ways Evelyn continues to learn and evolve and where you can follow her efforts (see the show notes!).


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045: Atelier Cho Thompson: Ming Thompson and Christina Cho Yoo on Diverse Strengths and Great Design

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013: Erin Alley: Rising to Leadership in Architecture through Inquiry, Inclusivity, and Innovation

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006: Tenille Bettenhausen: Soft Skills and Unexpected Career Twists

011: Tami Hausman: Amplifying AEC Industries

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