The AEC industry has a history of underrepresentation of women, but together, we're rewriting the story. In honor of Women's History Month, we are celebrating the living histories of Calibre women as they forge their own paths. Nearly 40% of Calibre employees are women, and we're passionate about supporting them. Calibre is working to flip the script and champion women in this industry. Join us this month as we share stories of the amazing women who are making a difference at Calibre and helping to rewrite the story of women in AEC.
In this post, Christine Clark—Whitewater Project Manager, Landscape Architect, and Planner—reflects on her journey and shares how support, service, and exploration have impacted her career path.
What support have you received that has helped you in your career?
The best support I received for my career was as an undergraduate student in architecture. The program at CU Boulder had a strong mentorship program and excellent instructors. A site planning professor who was a Landscape Architect and Urban and Regional Planner, convinced me to switch my major for graduate school to align with my passion for the outdoors. I received a dual master’s degree in landscape architecture and urban and regional planning. This has allowed me to excel in understanding spaces from the regional level all the way to the detailed design of small spaces.
How has serving in the community impacted your career?
Serving the community is very important to me. I have always had a strong connection to the community I live in. I was president of the Red Cross Youth Corps in High School, President of the Executive Board of Club Sports in College, an American Canoe Association kayak and paddle board instructor teaching at youth camps, universities, the National Sports Center for the Disabled and for Team River Runners. For the past 8 years, I have coached local recreational and competitive soccer teams in my neighborhood and recently began to volunteer in the Junior Curling Program. Investing in the community is how I inspire future generations to find a passion for the outdoors.
How has exploration and challenging the status quo impacted your career?
As a female paddler and a designer that works in a male-dominated profession, I have always had to prove myself before I was accepted. Exploring and challenging the status quo for me has more to do with working hard, putting in more time and effort than anyone else, to prove to those around me that I am more than capable.