Authenticity at Work: Normalizing LGBTQ+ in AEC Workplaces

In 2024, Calibre launched a leadership series spotlighting the voices and experiences of A/E/C leaders from LGBTQ+, women, veteran, and BIPOC (podcast coming soon) communities. In celebration of PRIDE Month, we’re revisiting a key takeaway from our LGBTQ+ panel: the call from our panelists for the A/E/C industry to take a more intentional and proactive approach to inclusion by normalizing the LGBTQ+ community in A/E/C. This article builds on that conversation, offering ideas for how A/E/C workplaces can better support LGBTQ+ professionals.

Here are a few ways that A/E/C firms can build a culture that normalizes the LGBTQ+ community in the workplace:

Use Inclusive Language

The words we use matter, and words offer a simple way to invite different communities, like LGBTQ+, into the conversation. Small changes, like the following, can support today’s more diversified workforce:

• Offer the option to include pronouns in email signatures and LinkedIn bios—it helps normalize the practice and creates a more welcoming space for those who choose to add pronouns and options for those who do not.

• Choose inclusive language in company communications, marketing, and casual conversations to show thoughtfulness and care.

Strive for Equitable Representation

When people see themselves reflected across the company, it reinforces companywide belonging. Some ideas for thoughtful representation:

• Strive to understand the representation of all people within your company across a variety of roles, visibility, and teams.

• Strive to create recruiting and promotional materials that reflect the diversity of today’s workforce across ages, abilities, races, orientations, genders, etc.

• Actively seek out and offer an opportunity for all voices to contribute to firm-wide decisions and conversations.

Back It Up with Policy

Real inclusion is built into the structure of the company:

• Ensure that non-discrimination policies explicitly protect sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.

• Offer benefits that reflect all families, including inclusive health coverage and family leave policies.

• Review HR practices regularly to ensure they support an evolving and diverse workforce.

  
  

Make Inclusion an Everyday Practice

It’s about more than just PRIDE Month—true inclusion shows up in how we work every day:

• Support Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) or similar practices where LGBTQ+ employees, allies, and others can connect.

• Speak up when bias occurs and create safe spaces where all people can discuss and grow.

• Celebrate people authentically and consistently, during and outside designated awareness months.

Lead with Intention

Leadership sets the tone. Inclusion starts at the top—but it doesn’t stop there. Leaders should:

• Use inclusive language and behaviors as a model for others.

• Advocate for equitable policies and ensure the policies are more than just words on paper.

• Engage in open conversations and listen with respect and curiosity—every voice deserves to be heard.

An Important Takeaway: Inclusion Drives Innovation

At Calibre, we believe that when people feel safe to be their authentic selves, they contribute their best ideas, energy, and creativity. In the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (A/E/C) industry—where innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration drive every project—this kind of authenticity isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential. Inclusive workplaces don’t happen by accident; they are intentionally cultivated through values, actions, and everyday choices.

For LGBTQ+ professionals, inclusion goes beyond visibility during PRIDE Month. It means being respected, supported, and empowered every day of the year. According to McKinsey & Company, companies with greater diversity are more likely to outperform less diverse peers in profitability and innovation. Inclusion isn’t about checking a box; it’s about unlocking potential and building cultures where every individual feels valued and heard.

When we prioritize inclusion, we strengthen our internal teams and elevate the quality of our work and the communities we serve. At Calibre, we’re committed to that growth. That means continuing to listen and learn, challenging our assumptions, and expanding the spaces where all voices are welcomed and celebrated.

Inclusion isn’t a campaign, it’s a commitment. We're proud to continue building a culture where everyone belongs, contributes, and drives meaningful change. In the end, the strongest structures—and the most impactful teams—are built on a foundation of respect, equity, and belonging.

About Calibre

Calibre Engineering is a Colorado-based firm specializing in civil, structural, and whitewater engineering. Our mission is to bring out the best in people and communities through high-calibre exploration, service, and support. From complex infrastructure to iconic recreation spaces, we lead with intention and heart. At Calibre, we know that when people feel they belong, they bring their best. That belief drives everything we do—from how we lead projects to how we support our team. Honored as the 2024 ACEC Colorado Foundation DEI Firm of the Year and a Top 10 Best AEC Firm to Work For three years running (Zweig Group), we’re proud to build a workplace where people belong.