Lionakis has been a leader in hiring, supporting and promoting women for many years. “Diversity of all kinds is important to our industry,” says Laura Knauss, president and chief practice officer. “We find that when our team reflects the demographics of our clients, we can best align, relate and respond to their needs.”

Historically, architecture has not been viewed as ideal for women with family and caregiving obligations, but newer balances in parenting responsibilities and flexible work schedules have helped open the doors for women. Knauss confirms, “We pride ourselves on work/life balance for all team members and that has enabled us to add many talented women to the firm.” 

“Diversity of all kinds is important to our industry. We find that when our team reflects the demographics of our clients, we can best align, relate and respond to their needs.”— Laura Knauss, President and Chief Practice Officer

Approximately 25% of AIA members or licensed architects are women. However, the percentage is growing, with women representing 43% of new architects in 2023 and representing 50% of students entering architecture programs. “Architects stay in the profession for a long time, so these numbers will take a while to increase the overall percentages,” notes Knauss. “Though percentages are lower for women in structural engineering, we may see an increase there, too.” 

At Lionakis, 34 of 119 in the architecture department are women, putting the firm above the national figure at 29%, and in their structural engineering department, four of 17 are women for 23.5% of the total. 

Women are well represented at the top of Lionakis, with six women among 21 total principals and associate principals. At the next layer of leadership, seven women hold associate and senior associate roles among 24 total. Knauss is joined in leadership by Principals Laurie McCoy, health care practice leader; Kellie Schneider, human resources; Deb Lesnefska, civic studio; Carol Lanham, civic studio; and Associate Principal Jennifer Quigley, education studio. 

“This industry is well served by women, who commonly exhibit excellent multitasking and empathy skills,” concludes Knauss. “Inspiring them in their youth is key — we’re seeing increasing technical proficiency in their K-12 training and can also thank the women in the industry acting as role models, participating in outreach programs and opportunities.”