May Professional Member of the Month

Heidi Willis

INVISION

Architect

1. What is the most exciting and energizing aspect of your current position?

Fostering client relationships to a deeper level than the project energizes me. I love getting to a level in the design process that prompts clients’ hidden interests and passions, creating a more meaningful and invested project for all involved.

2. What was the last interesting podcast you listened to?

My one-year-old keeps me on my toes these days so I haven’t gotten into listening to podcasts, but the next book read on my list is I-Engage: Your Personal Engagement Roadmap by Bob Kelleher.

3. What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

I had a goal from the start of my architectural registration exams to have them complete by the time our family grew. I met my goal with a month to spare.

4. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?

Be uncomfortable. It takes being uncomfortable to grow.

5. We are Iowa Women in Architecture; who were the female role models that inspired you? 

Becoming a mother in the past year has put a whole new perspective on the loving and caring charisma of my mother. She has always been there to lend an ear, pick me up when I’m down, and bring me back to earth when I’ve flown too high. She has shown me how to love deeply, listen genuinely, and compete intensely.