As Women’s History Month comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what it truly takes to build in this city. Beyond the technical feats of engineering, New York is a landscape being reshaped by women who refuse to accept the status quo. In the AEC world, professional organizations are far more than networking hubs—they are the strategic engines providing the visibility and mentorship necessary to move the needle for firms like Via Collective.
We don’t just participate in these organizations; we lean into them as catalysts to push our craft and our reach further. Here is how these vital networks help us bridge the gap between architectural intent and human navigation:
Leading the Design Narrative: AIANY
Design is where the user experience begins. Currently serving as the Director of Communications for the AIANY Transportation & Infrastructure committee, I am proud to use this platform to advocate for human-centered design. This involvement allows us to move wayfinding from an “add-on” to a core component of equitable urban planning, ensuring access for all through strategic design.
The Business of Building: PWC
At Via Collective, we rely on Professional Women in Construction (PWC) to stay synchronized with the developers and contractors driving New York’s massive infrastructure projects. We value PWC’s commitment to ensuring WBE-certified firms aren’t just “on the list,” but are at the table for mission-critical contract discussions. This engagement is essential for integrating sophisticated wayfinding strategy into the earliest stages of a build.
Field Authority: NAWIC
When it comes to the technical realities of the job site, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is a vital touchstone. Their focus on rigorous professional standards is essential to our work in fabrication and installation. We deeply appreciate this community of peers who understand the precision and grit required to navigate a complex New York City construction environment.
Building a Permanent Record: BWAF
I’m a firm believer that if you don’t document history, it disappears. The Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation (BWAF) performs the essential work of ensuring women’s contributions to the built environment are recognized and mapped. We are honored to support a mission that ensures our work—from transit hubs to civic landmarks—becomes a permanent, documented part of the city’s architectural story.
Strategic Storytelling: SMPS-NY
Infrastructure and strategy might seem worlds apart, but SMPS New York bridge that gap beautifully. These networks allow me to champion wayfinding as a “branded experience”—a vital layer of the built environment that dictates how we perceive and move through our city. This strategic storytelling is what turns a building into a navigable, user-focused destination.
Defining What Comes Next
These organizations turn what can often be an isolating industry into a shared mission. I’m proud to be part of this ecosystem, not just as a participant, but as a leader helping to define what New York builds next. As we move past March, let’s keep the momentum going—the skyline is still changing, and we are the ones shaping the vision.
Photo credit: PWC