We are heading into the third week of our four-week International Women’s Month series that features just a few of the many amazing women in the BIM industry. This week we are featuring Lisa Metzger who is based in Denver, Colorado and is a Project Manager and Senior Associate from Galloway.
We asked Lisa, what was her initial attraction to the AECO industry. She replied enthusiastically, “Initially, I loved the idea of architecture as the perfect marriage of design and science. I loved both, and there are very few jobs that combine them so seamlessly.” Lisa has continued to thrive in the industry, gaining over 10 years of experience.
Moving up in the BIM World
Lisa has put over ten years of work into the BIM industry and, more specifically, almost five years of that time was at Galloway. So, it was a no-brainer that when asked about which professional achievement makes her proud, she said, “becoming Senior Associate at Galloway.” This was when she “really started to see and feel [her] impact on such a great organization and all the people within it.” This proves to everyone, not just one woman if you put in the effort, you will get the results you want.
Ask for What you Deserve
A piece of advice that Lisa tells women in the industry is,
“Women generally have such a hard time asking for raises, asking for promotions, bragging about your work, drawing attention to your accomplishments, etc. We are not taught to do these things growing up like men are. No one does this for you. So don’t be afraid to ask for what you deserve and draw attention to everything you do!”
Ask the Right Questions!
When asked about how to find the right fit with a company in the BIM industry, Lisa gave us great advice:
“I ask important but tough questions during an interview. For example, I look at the leadership of the company. If predominately or overwhelmingly male, I will ask if there is room for females at the top of the company and what they have in place to get more female presence. You need to identify the companies that will support you.”
This is a fantastic strategy for making sure that you are aligning with a company that encourages the professional growth of its female employees.
Do Your Research
When asked if she experienced inequality in the workplace, she said, “I have hit some points in my career where this was an issue and I ended up leaving that company for one with a better culture.” We asked if she had any advice for women who face inequality in the BIM industry. She said, “If issues arise, find an advocate at your office or a mentor in the industry and talk it through.” Her advice is perfect for handling the situation if it ever occurs, as a recent survey even stated that only 57% of women get offered promotions of the 75% of men.
Conclusion
Lisa’s advice can help women in the AECO industry have the drive and confidence they need to succeed in the industry. Are you a woman in the BIM field too? How has your experience been similar or different to Lisa’s? Please let us know in the comments.
