How a Diversity of Voices Helps Architecture and CRE

Williams: “There is not a glass ceiling, but there are constant challenges to anyone in the business, and it involves stepping up and taking on those challenges.”

IRVINE, CA—Whether diverse in age, culture or gender, a variety of perspectives creates a team that is most forward looking, in architecture and in real estate development as a whole, KTGY Architecture + Planning’s new chairman Jill Williams tells GlobeSt.com. Williams is one of only three women out of the top 35 architecture firms in the US that holds the position of chairman of the board. KTGY’s CEO Tricia Esser and Williams represent the only two women at one of the top architectural firms in the US that holds these two positions. (One national architectural firm out of the top 35 firms has the same woman serving as both the CEO and chairman.) We spoke exclusively with Williams about her new role, opportunities for women in architecture and what makes an architectural firm successful.

GlobeSt.com: Tell us about your new position.  Williams: In my new position, I will continue to run KTGY’s Oakland office, while spending time with other KTGY leaders across the country and in India and collaborating closely with our CEO Tricia Esser. I want to bring to the position more opportunities for young architects to be mentored like I was early in my career. I also plan to continue to bring out the best in our firm, for our clients, for our communities and for the profession of architecture. At KTGY, we say we are continually searching for better and I look forward to growing, moving forward and innovating memorable places. GlobeSt.com: What are your thoughts about being named the firm’s first female chairman?