Her Story
About Amelia
Amelia Lockwood has been working in architecture since 2019, beginning as an intern while studying at the University of Michigan. She graduated with an undergraduate degree in architecture from the University of Michigan in 2022. After graduation she moved to Chicago where she worked in architecture for two years before relocating to Spain. There she worked as an English teacher and pursued freelance opportunities in design, graphic design marketing, and architecture. She has since returned to the Detroit area and now works at Hobbs and Black, primarily out of their Detroit location. She is a member of Alpha Ro Chi, an architectural professional fraternity, and NCARB. She speaks fluent Spanish from her time living in Spain and is pursuing licensure in architecture. Lockwood attributes her success to her passion for the job and values acceptance highly, with a strong interest in community spaces and how architecture can support inclusive environments for all people regardless of race, gender, class, or sexual orientation.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Amelia
01What do you attribute your success to?
I feel really lucky that I do feel passionate about my job. I know that a lot of people start off and kind of have to get through the gritty years, the first 5 or 10 years where things aren't exactly fun, to get to doing what they're really interested in, but I feel lucky that even though my job hasn't always been easy, there's a part of my personal passion that keeps me motivated.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My parents always encouraged me to pursue my passions. They provided me with the resources to do things I really cared about. Just not letting go of things that are important to me, pursuing what I care about, and paying attention to the things that I really like to do and that I'm passionate about.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do a lot of exploring and reading and research, because architecture is a very political form of art. Buildings can be very political because of their accessibility, whether disability, class, or gender accessibility. Being a woman, it's important to be aware of how architecture can make or break the accessibility of a space, depending on things you wouldn't necessarily think about unless you're educated in the history.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The recent economic shifts have been hard on the architectural field. Larger stable companies are facing hardships, making it difficult for young professionals to find jobs and grow. But because firms have been going through challenges, it's become clear which firms are stable and thriving, so the firms that are hiring now are really solid opportunities.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Acceptance. We've come a long way but have a long time to go in this country towards creating acceptable spaces and environments for all people, regardless of race, gender, class, sexual orientation. That's the biggest value I hold really highly.
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