Architect Sara Klein shares her journey in the construction industry, highlighting the creative and problem-solving aspects of her work. She emphasizes the rewarding nature of influencing spatial experience through thoughtful design while discusses the unique perspectives women bring to construction.
Sara also encourages young women to consider careers in architecture and construction, noting the industry's increasing inclusivity. She stresses the importance of team diversity, mentoring and the various opportunities available in the industry. Sara’s perspective depicts an image of women's role in shaping our growing industry.
As an Architect, what do you do?
As an architect at Lakewood Construction, my days involve designing buildings using a computer program called Revit. I meet with clients to discuss layouts, bounce ideas off coworkers and coordinate with engineers. It's a mix of creative design work and problem-solving.
What drew you to the construction industry?
As a kid, I loved playing with Legos and drawing dream houses. I enjoyed building Barbie houses more than playing with the dolls! Later, I realized I wanted a career that combined constructive art with math and science. When I learned my great-grandfather was an architect, it felt like it was in my blood.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of working in construction?
The best part is influencing how people feel in a space, often without them realizing it. For example, we used stone veneer in a child advocacy center to create a feeling of safety. I love thinking about these subtle details that affect people's experiences, even if they don't consciously notice them.
What would you say to someone with no experience or awareness about careers in construction? Why should they join the industry?
Construction is exciting and offers many different career paths with so many opportunities to grow. As an architect, I love being able to positively influence the world around me. If you enjoy problem-solving and watching your ideas become real buildings, it's a great field to explore.
What are some of the unique perspectives, skills, or strengths that women bring to the construction industry?
Women often bring strong relational skills and focus on how spaces feel, not just how they function. We focus on creating safe, inviting environments and how different areas will work together. This perspective adds a lot of value, especially in designing collaborative spaces that balance openness with minimized distractions.
How do you hope to inspire and pave the way for future generations of women in this field?
Mentoring is really important to me. I love encouraging young women who are interested in this industry while showing both men and women that we're just as capable and competent. I also enjoy discussing all the different opportunities in construction, from architecture to trades like electrical work or carpentry.
Can you speak to the importance of having a diverse workforce, including more women, in the construction industry?
Since we each bring different perspectives based on our experiences, having diverse teams leads to better projects. Combining those viewpoints provides more creative solutions and spaces that work for everyone. The more variety we have, the more we can learn from each other and improve our skills and designs.
What is one thing you would like to say when it comes to Women in
Construction?
The industry is changing and becoming more welcoming to women- there are way more women in architecture school now than when I started. It's certainly getting easier to join the field, and there are lots of opportunities. This is largely thanks to the many women who have already paved the way by proving our worth and making great contributions. Don't be afraid to explore construction careers – we need your talents and ideas!
About Lakewood Construction
Lakewood Construction is a premier design-build construction firm in West Michigan. With in-house teams of real estate experts, architects, designers, builders, steel crew and carpenters, they provide our clients with an unparalleled commitment to excellence. Their portfolio spans high-profile commercial, industrial, office and municipal projects—they are passionate about making a true difference for the businesses and organizations in the community.
Lakewood Construction is proud of its culture and team environment. From all different backgrounds and experiences, they are recognized as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in West Michigan and the US. Lakewood Construction is honest, hardworking and highly collaborative— they always have each other’s backs. From clients to team members to subcontractors, they seek to be the best to work with and for.
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