I think it's best to describe my underlying motivators. 

I've worked for architecture firms since I graduated with a B.Arch in 2003. I've worked on residential projects in Los Angeles. I moved from Mississippi in search of learning everything I can. That's what happened. I spent most of my early years in the industry traveling and moving over the West Coast. From a very young firm in Venice to Gensler in Orange County. After, I moved to Seattle and worked on a variety of projects, but multifamily/mixed-use was trending at the time.

After the 2009 recession, I spent time caring for my grandmother before she passed away in Mississippi. It was incredibly meaningful and changed my life. 

After she passed, I took a position with a large General Contractor, and I worked in the field with the title of Project Engineer. My qualifications allowed me access to work on USACE projects on installations throughout the county. The experience working in construction management was invaluable. Every single day, I sat down with subcontractors. I walked in the field and observed, but I also talked to everyone. I asked questions. I learned. I gained respect in the field. 

Eventually, I wanted to settle in Mississippi again. Blame love. Blame family. Blame comfort. Blame cost of living. I came back and was hired as a Project Manager at a boutique, award winning design firm that's been featured on Archinect. Specifically, my project was featured. I think we all know the result of working in boutique firm for a couple years. Burn. Out. My firm wouldn't transition to Revit, and I paid for it in production time. I needed a better work life balance, and I was headstrong and convinced it is possible to achieve in this profession.

I had an opportunity to join a larger firm & was trained in Revit. I think all of you know how difficult it is to be proficient in Revit while under fire with project deadlines looming. After a lot of work, persistence and determination I became highly skilled in Revit. 

I've had amazing design opportunities, and somehow I've managed to work on incredibly innovative projects in Mississippi. The two projects I am most proud of are Nicholas Air in Oxford, MS and The Greenwood, MS Police Department and Municipal Court.

I'm now in the place of running my design business. Yes, I'm behind getting licensed. I work on residential projects in rural communities for retirees, artists and other misfits.

My end goal is to get licensed this year. I'm freelancing to supplement my income as I do this. I currently have a freelance gig, but I want to move into something more challenging with design opportunities. 

I just want a conversation with anyone looking for a passionate, driven, talented, above competent woman. I can help your firm. I show up. I produce good work, and I know above all else, the only thing that matters in life is being real and true to your passions.