August Professional Member of the Month

Shannon McGee

INVISION, Intern Architect

Our profession is built on the value of relationships and opportunities; how do you prepare for a meeting with a new client?
When preparing to meet a new client I usually have had some time to gain a little background on the goals of the project. This allows me to become familiar with the site, potential constraints, project type, etc. prior to meeting with them so that I can be prepared for the conversation and able to ask relevant questions.

We often design to improve the health of people and the environment; how do you wind down in the evenings to maintain a balanced lifestyle?
I’m definitely a morning person so I try to get up and run prior to going to work. In the evenings or on the weekends I really enjoy cooking and baking. While this may not necessarily be healthy, my latest obsession is learning how to make cupcakes and frosting from scratch.  I think it’s rewarding to be able to work hard at something and be able to witness (and eat) the good results when all the work done.

In 2017 technology is at our fingertips - what is your favorite app and/or website?
I don’t really have a strong favorite, but I do like Pinterest. It’s a nice place to be able to research travel destinations, find recipes, or save design ideas for future reference.

As professionals we are versed in community interaction and collaboration; what are you involved in outside the realm of architecture/design?
Last year I volunteered for the ACE mentorship program that helps introduce high school students to the design and construction industry. I’ve also volunteered for various events with my colleagues at INVISION such as Earth Day Trash Bash, Meals from the Heartland, and sponsoring a family for the Boys & Girls Club around the holidays.

We are Iowa Women in Architecture; who were the female role models that inspired you?
I feel lucky to have had many great female role models thus far in life. At INVISION I have had the opportunity work closely with Tonia Householder and Kerry Weig on projects. It has been great to be able to learn from them and observe how they handle different situations throughout the design process from programming to construction. Another female who is not in the field of architecture, but also a role model would be my mom.  She was and continues to be a great role model growing up that instilled in my sister and me that anything is possible and not to limit ourselves.