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Conversations with Women Leaders at DIALOG: International Women’s Day 2026

March 6, 2026

March 8 is International Women’s Day.

It’s an opportunity to recognize the achievements of women and the importance of creating a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and included as we work toward a more inclusive society.

At DIALOG, we focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion year-round, celebrating the many women across our studios who bring curiosity, creativity, and meaningful impact to everything we do. This year’s theme is “Give to Gain,” focusing on mentorship, collaboration and inclusion. We invited women leaders from across our studios to share what International Women’s Day means to them, the advice they would offer future generations, and their vision for an equitable world.

Read on to discover their thoughtful perspectives that help guide us all forward.

Eleanor Mohammed, Partner, Urban Governance and Planning

As a leader in the AEC industry, what does International Women’s Day mean to you?

It’s both a celebration and a call to action. In the AEC industry, where leadership tables often do not reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, it is a moment to recognize the women who have reshaped the profession through courage, competence, and conviction. When women lead in diverse disciplines, the conversation expands and becomes more inclusive, resilient, and future-focused.

What advice would you share with women who are starting their careers in AEC?

Do not wait for a title to lead. Leadership is how you show up, frame challenges, and support others. Be clear about your passions and values. The AEC industry needs professionals who can connect technical delivery with climate resilience, housing equity, and long-term public good – and with your voice, it will help broaden the conversation.

What does a more equitable future in this industry look like to you?

A more equitable future in AEC is one where leadership reflects the communities we design for, and diverse perspectives shape decisions from the outset. It requires equitable access to mentorship, sponsorship, and advancement, along with procurement and governance systems that prioritize collaboration and long-term public good over short-term metrics.

Crystal Blanton, Associate and Senior Structural Engineer

As a leader in the AEC industry, what does International Women’s Day mean to you?

It’s a celebration honouring the women who helped pave the way, reflecting on all the contributions women have made to the industry, and acknowledging what we could do better to raise the women around us.

What advice would you share with women who are starting their careers in AEC?

You belong. Unfortunately, you will still run into individuals who think otherwise, but don’t allow anyone to tell you differently and take your place at the table.

What does a more equitable future in this industry look like to you?

The representation of every gender and race in the AEC industry should mimic the same representation of gender and race in our communities. If we put in effort to provide equitable education opportunities and meaningful mentorship and outreach programs, we can achieve equity across all industries.

Katherine Gerson, Associate and Architect

As a leader in the AEC industry, what does International Women’s Day mean to you?

It is important, particularly working in a male-dominated field, to capitalize on these opportunities to give a voice to underrepresented and marginalized groups.  The fact that conversations around equity and diversity have broadened to be more inclusive is a sign that initiatives like International Women’s Day are helping, but definitely still necessary!

What advice would you share with women who are starting their careers in AEC?

Advocate for yourself! Look for mentors and role models and reach out to them. Also, find yourself or build yourself a support community within the profession. Be sure to stand up for others that you see needing advocacy support. Don’t be afraid to call out others when witnessing biased or unreasonable stereotype behaviours.

What does a more equitable future in this industry look like to you?

A more equitable future in this industry means bringing a wider range of voices to the table – across gender, race, and personality types – especially in leadership.

Jie Chen, Partner and Architect

As a leader in the AEC industry, what does International Women’s Day mean to you?

It’s a moment for reflection and action – an opportunity to consider what more I can do to advance women in the workplace. This year’s theme, Give to Gain, resonates deeply with me. Throughout my career, I have benefited from the generosity, advocacy, and sponsorship of both women and men who invested in my growth. It has reinforced my belief that progress comes from sharing opportunities, supporting one another, and succeeding together. Creating space for collaboration and lifting others as we advance is essential, and it’s a mindset I believe women can continue to leverage to drive meaningful change across our industry.

What advice would you share with women who are starting their careers in AEC?

Be intentional about building and nurturing relationships – they matter more than you may realize. Seek out mentors and sponsors who will both advise you and advocate for you, and invest time in learning from them. Don’t be afraid to take up space, and pursue opportunities that stretch your abilities. Most importantly, demand more – for your growth, your voice, and your future. Your perspective is valuable, and the industry is stronger when you expect and help create for the better.

What does a more equitable future in this industry look like to you?

An equitable future is one where opportunities and pay are equal, and where we actively challenge systems that fall short.