2018 Annual WASLA Conference

Motif Seattle, March 16, 2018

 

 

11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Navigating Your Path to Leadership: Moving beyond entry level and building a strong foundation for future growth

Description:

The first few years of your career come with valuable opportunities, some surprises, and many challenges. You may just be starting out, but this is the beginning of the legacy you will leave behind. This session will focus on building a strong foundation for future growth and discuss strategies to successfully grow from entry level into project management and leadership positions. The presenters, with their diverse backgrounds and oftentimes humorous experiences, will share stories, tips, and lessons learned to inspire and encourage new landscape architects/designers in their own paths. It is perfect for students, entry level landscape architects, and anyone wanting to be a leader in the profession.

Lead Speaker:

Rachel Dotson, CPSI

Speaker Bios:

Rachel Dotson, CPSI, Senior Associate, HBB Landscape Architecture
Rachel has been practicing landscape architecture since 2006 and she'll never forget the hurdles we all face in entry level positions. Having watched many young colleagues move on to other professions during the recession, Rachel stuck by her dream of becoming a landscape architect and brings first-hand knowledge in charting the bumpy path to a leadership role at her firm.

Merit Oviir, ASLA, Associate, HBB Landscape Architecture
Merit grew up in Estonia where she received part of her professional training in landscape architecture. After completing her education in the US in 2009, she experienced new learning opportunities and challenges as she began her career with a long-term goal to lead a company. Her journey and experiences along the way provide insight into forging a path to leadership.

Monica Thompson, ASLA, Sites AP
Monica has been shaping outdoor spaces as a horticulturalist and landscape architect since 2002. She has held positions as an Account Manager, Project Manager, and more recently as an Associate for HBB. Navigating management positions over the years has given her the skills to be positive yet direct, and advocate for herself as she transitioned into a leadership role.

Learning Objectives:
  • Beginning your journey: This topic will focus on what you can expect in your first few years along with tips, tricks, and a few lessons learned.
  • Finding your way: We will discuss what some expectations are for moving beyond entry level and into project management.
  • Navigating Your Path to Leadership: This topic will focus on the best ways to develop skills and connections you need to reach your long-term goals.