April 13, 2026
Architecture Career Insights: Perspectives from Practicing Architects
Chicago-Based Architects Share Real-World Advice on Careers in Architecture, Design Thinking, and Creating Spaces That Improve How People Live and Move
Inside Architecture at GFT
Architecture is one of those rare professions that brings together creativity, technical thinking, and real-world impact. It challenges us to imagine what is possible, then work together to make it real. If you’re considering a career in architecture, understanding how architects think, collaborate, and solve problems is a great place to start.
During Architecture Week, we celebrate the profession, but just as importantly, we look ahead. The future of architecture depends on the next generation of designers, problem-solvers, and creative thinkers who are just beginning to explore what this field can offer.
As architects at GFT, we are actively building that future. From our Chicago architecture studio, located in one of the world’s most influential design cities, our team works on projects across aviation, transit, civic, and transportation markets that shape how people move and connect every day. Our Chicago studio includes architects, designers, and specialists working on complex, large-scale projects throughout the country.
Over the past year, our architecture team has grown in both size and capability, bringing together a wider range of perspectives, experiences, and technical expertise. That collaboration continues to strengthen how we approach design and support one another.
Recently, members of our Chicago studio came together to share their work and reflect on what inspires them. Their insights offer a clear and honest look at what it means to practice architecture today and what it takes to succeed in this field.
What Do Architects Do?
Architects do more than design buildings. They are involved in planning and designing spaces, solving problems, asking questions, and working with clients and communities to turn ideas into real spaces. They balance creativity with technical requirements while collaborating with engineers and other specialists to move projects forward. From airports and transit stations to civic and public spaces, architects shape how people living and working in these environments travel, gather, and connect every day.
Advice for Future Architects: What Professionals Want You to Know
“Building a strong firm community starts with getting involved. From mentoring to intern programs to team activities, taking initiative creates opportunities for others to connect, learn, and grow.”
Anna Kick, RA
Architect
“Every place I go, I learn something. I pay attention to the details, because everything is part of architecture. Sometimes it’s not the well-known designers. It’s the unnamed architects who shape the spaces we experience every day.”
David Steele, AIA
Principal Project Manager, Architecture
“How often do you truly study how people use your space? Inclusive design starts with understanding how different people experience it. It goes beyond how something looks. It’s about making sure people feel comfortable, supported, and able to move through it with ease.”
Francisco Lasta, OTR/L, Assoc. AIA
Inclusive Design Lead
“I try not to fixate on a single design direction too early. Some of the best ideas come from collaboration, when you bring different perspectives together and allow the design to evolve.”
Jin-wook Lee, AIA
Principal Architect
“Make time to visit the site during construction. That’s when your drawings meet reality. Seeing a project come together in the field teaches lessons you can’t learn anywhere else.”
Kelli Pledger, AIA
Architect
“Our clients have requirements and constraints, but design doesn’t stop there. You have to think creatively and ask what you can do beyond what is required. That’s how you turn something functional into something meaningful.”
Norbert Schlotter, AIA, NCARB
Principal Architect, Design Lead
Building the Future of Architecture Together
What stands out across all these perspectives is that architecture is not a solo effort; it’s a collaborative design process shaped by curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to learn. This shapes our work every day across GFT’s architecture practice. Teams work together across disciplines. Ideas are tested, refined, and improved. Designers at every level contribute to the outcome.
For students considering architecture, this is a profession where you can make an impact early, continue learning throughout your career, and be part of something larger than yourself. Pay attention to the world around you. Ask questions, stay open to new ideas, and most importantly, keep creating.
We are proud of the work we do and the people who make it possible. We are equally excited about the next generation that will carry it forward.
Meet our expert
Mark Stromberg, AIA, LEED AP
Vice President, Operations Manager, Central Architecture
Mark Stromberg is an architectural leader with more than 30 years of experience delivering new and renovation projects across aviation, transit, civic, and infrastructure markets. He is known for guiding complex projects while aligning client goals with budget, schedule, and quality.
Mark Stromberg, AIA, LEED AP
Vice President, Operations Manager, Central Architecture
Mark Stromberg is an architectural leader with more than 30 years of experience delivering new and renovation projects across aviation, transit, civic, and infrastructure markets. He is known for guiding complex projects while aligning client goals with budget, schedule, and quality.
Mark Stromberg, AIA, LEED AP
Vice President, Operations Manager, Central Architecture
Mark Stromberg is an architectural leader with more than 30 years of experience delivering new and renovation projects across aviation, transit, civic, and infrastructure markets. He is known for guiding complex projects while aligning client goals with budget, schedule, and quality.
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