5 Inspiring Quotes from USGBC’s Women in Green Brunch

by Raquel

On April 21, Alicja and I attended the Women in Green Brunch, organized by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The event brought together woman across the green building industry. A panel of female professionals spoke about their experiences, and offered some words of wisdom. Here are 5 quotes that resonated in particular:

• “There is no challenge, only opportunity.” ~ Annette Stelmack, Educator

Those who are successful in creating anything new learn not just to compensate for surprises, but to take advantage of them.  Today’s world is all about exploiting the possibilities and taking advantage of the uncertainties, by treating unexpected events as an opportunity to exercise creative thinking.

• “Take time to be the mentor. Encourage others to keep that going” ~ Celeste, Engineer

Mentoring is a great way to share our knowledge and experience with others. Big decisions — launching a business, pursuing higher education, exploring a new career – can be extremely daunting. When we make ourselves available to share what we know, we can help others move faster and avoid known pitfalls. And a mentor relationship can also coalesce that wisdom and experience for both the mentor and mentee.

•  “Little girls with dreams, become women with vision” ~ Janelle Leafblad, Wood Works – Wood Products Council

As child, Janelle dreamed of living in a castle. Inspired by her childhood dream, she pursued a degree on architectural engineering and masters in wood science and technology. She now supports the building industry by advising on wood building techniques through a nonprofit called Wood Works.

• “Be strategic, find a niche and recognize the opportunity” ~ Janelle Leafblad

Recognize what you makes you different, and what advantage that difference brings. What do you offer that no one else can?

• “Walk your talk.” ~ Kimberly Lewis, USGBC

It’s not enough to talk about sustainability and how much we like it.    By incorporating sustainable strategies in our everyday life both inside and outside work, we can inspire others. Riding your bike to work, including passive-solar strategies in a building’s design, or bringing your own bag to buy groceries, are all different but effective ways of leading by example.

Gettliffe Architecture is a Boulder, Colorado architecture firm offering green design services from straw-bale homes to eco lodges around the globe. We believe that beautiful modern architectural design begins with careful consideration of earth, culture and community. Working with your ideas and vision, our team of green architects brings inspiring spaces to life that are kind to the planet and a pleasure to be in.