Name: Aimee E. Zielinski, AIA
Title: Project Manager
Company: Wendel
Where are you from? North Tonawanda
How many years of experience do you have? 17 in the industry, 3 as a licensed architect
Why did you choose architecture as a profession? My grandfather was a Construction Superintendent, and a mason by trade. Growing up, his ‘buildings’ were constantly identified by my mother, to me and my siblings, as we traveled around Western New York. I never missed an opportunity to share the fact that he not only designed, but built the house I grew up in. I still feel an immense amount of pride at the notion that a piece of him, his talent and skill, exists in the built environment. What a great legacy to leave to future generations and I’m proud to carry that legacy forward.
What Industry of Architecture do you work in? I’ve worked on educational, both K-12 and Higher Ed, as well commercial, and public transportation projects.
What is the most inspiring part of your job? The people I get to work with, without a doubt, are the most inspiring part of my job. I am fortunate to work with a remarkably talented group of human beings who teach me something new every day.
In your opinion, what are the most pressing issues architects will face in the coming years? As architects, we have this tremendous responsibility to ensure and protect the health, safety and welfare of the individuals interacting with and occupying the spaces we help shape and create. That responsibility, balanced with the need for a more socially responsible architecture, presents a unique challenge that requires an advanced level of rigor from the design team, the contractor as well as the owner and other key shareholders. A constant and ever-evolving introspection, on how the project-related decisions of today will impact the future of this planet and its population, becomes a necessity.
Are there any other college degrees other than architecture you would recommend that has helped your career? I have certainly taken a nontraditional path throughout my career. I have a Master’s Degree in Architecture, a Bachelors Degree in Business and Associates Degrees in Architectural Technology and Accounting. Business and accounting are such broad areas of study that this would undoubtedly be beneficial to anyone’s career. Understanding a project from practically all perspectives has provided me with opportunities in my career I might not otherwise have been offered.
Do you have a special routine/habit you may do to get creative juices flowing? I find music to be a driving force in my life. I'm constantly striving to curate the perfect playlists for a certain mood or task or event. The right melody or lyric can make or break your emotional state, impacting creativity levels and the thought process.