Holly Vetsch, PE

WER Architects is a commercial architecture and interior design firm. I joined the team at the beginning of the pandemic as an architectural designer – let’s just say, unconventional time to change jobs! – but was already very familiar with the team, having interned there twice during college. I am in the process of getting my architecture licensure and am starting an online master’s program with the Boston Architectural College. I am also a licensed structural engineer, which allows me to bring a different understanding and appreciation to the team and improve coordination between architects and engineers.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion

I was a lucky one. I had the opportunity to job shadow and look behind the curtain of architecture in high school. My love of math and science made me crave a deeper understanding of how architectural form could develop from a structural perspective.

Biggest challenges in my career

There are not many women in the architecture and engineering field to look to for mentorship and advice, which is challenging. I hope that as I grow in my career, I will be able to offer that to young female designers and together we grow a more diverse design community.

My first job and what it taught me

My first job with a paycheck was Chick-fil-A at Conway Commons. That job taught me the importance of leadership as opposed to management, working with your teammates’ strengths, gratitude and the difference going above and beyond can make!

Best career moment so far

Finding out I passed my PE exam! Passing meant I became a licensed engineer in Arkansas. I have always been a terrible test taker. I dedicated every waking moment outside of work to studying, tried different methods and it worked!

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

I wish people knew that architecture and engineering is not a drive-thru service. It takes time. Good design takes many reiterations and many team players to pose different solutions.

A skill I never expected to need in this field

Probably not a skill per say, but they don’t tell you about time sheets in school. This is my very least favorite task of the day. Or possibly email organization. Wow that’s a job in itself!

Best advice I ever received

Always go for the hard things! It’s obviously not going to be easy, but it's the hard things that push you beyond the status quo, the real learning moments. The challenge teaches you that you can continue to rise!

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Take a deep breath! I typically have to switch my concentration to something else for a bit. Then once I am ready, take a step back and reevaluate.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

My coworkers. I am a people person! I could work solo, but I would be miserable. At the end of the day, I am no better than my team, and we are all better because of the perspective we bring!

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

Always accepting recommendations in this area! I really enjoy putting my phone down and reconnecting with my surroundings. I love going out on my neighbors’ dock and repotting new plants every spring.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion

Biggest challenges in my career

My first job and what it taught me

Best career moment so far

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

A skill I never expected to need in this field

Best advice I ever received

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Conway

I can't start my day until

I wash my face

Hobbies

A good renovation project, letting my dogs live their best life and horseback riding

Binge watch

“Ginny and Georgia” is the latest

Last good read

“Meet You in the Middle” by Devon Daniels

Favorite meal in town

Svickova at The Pantry

Best recent local discovery

Blue Cake Company

Latest splurge

Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream

Most-used app

Instagram

Dream vacation

Thailand

SPONSORS