Works at
Binnie
Years of experience:
5
Last updated: April, 2022
2013-2017
Education |
2020-Current
Career Milestone 1 |
2017-2019
Career Milestone 2 |
Present
Future Ambitions |
---|---|---|---|
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
|
Landscape Architect
|
Landscape Architectural Intern
|
- Become a Registered Professional Planner;
|
The first position I had was as an LA Intern with SBA Inc. in Barrie, ON. It was a great position where I learned a lot and took on a great deal of responsibility in my role. I was exposed to a number of projects in different areas of the profession and discovered where my passion lies.
Something that surprised me at the start of my career was how competitive the field was. Writing proposals in response to RFPs is a huge part of the job - something they don't tell you in school! Without successful proposals, there is no work so you learn very quickly how to prepare an effective proposal and sell yourself.
Something that surprises me as an LA is that you need to prove yourself to other disciplines / professionals. LAs have come a long way, but there is still much to be done so that we are a recognized professions that is no longer confused with landscapers...
- Master Planning;
- Detailed Design Drawing Preparation;
- Proposal Writing;
- Contract Administration;
- Construction Supervision;
- Tender Package Preparation;
- Conceptual Design;
- Preparation of Rendered Drawings and Illustrations; and
- More.
The beauty of my current role is that every day is different. There's no such thing as falling into a rut, because every day is different and interesting and definitely keeps me on my toes.
- Time management;
- Creativity;
- Open-mindedness;
- Environmental awareness;
- Detail-oriented; and
- Spatial awareness.
Creating spaces that balance human use with preserving the integrity of the natural environment. Connecting to people with nature even in urban spaces and nurturing an understanding that fosters environmental stewardship.
Too many to count! From urban plazas that celebrate the culture and landscapes of a region to trail systems and master plans that ensure viable recreation opportunities for communities for years to come. It is never a dull moment and I'm loving every minute of it.
Being a young female professional has been a challenge. Entering a field where you are overseeing construction projects I often found that I was required to "prove myself" to others in order to gain their respect. My advice - firstly, find an employer that has your back and believes in you. Secondly - don't second guess yourself. You know that you earned your spot at the table and that you are capable - nobody can take that away from you, unless you let them.
Find a position that makes you happy!
If CAD work brings you joy, then find a role where your primary responsibility is drafting. If you get bored easily, find a position that offers a range of projects and daily tasks. Don't settle because your level of satisfaction in your role will be visible in your work.
- Become a Registered Professional Planner;
- Become a IAP2 Professional/Public Engagement Specialist; and
- Become the Principal of an LA firm.