CCY Partner Maura Trumble was invited to be part of a dynamic panel of practice leaders at the 2024 AIA Colorado Design + Practice Conference in Keystone Colorado. “Learning from Leaders” unpacked the evolving demands of leadership in the architecture industry - explored the themes of trust-building, mentorship, and business strategies, offering essential insights for professionals navigating the complexities of modern architectural practice.
As the recipient of AIA Colorado’s 2024 Young Architect of the Year Award, Maura contributed invaluable insight gleaned from her path to leadership at CCY. As the firm’s first female partner, Maura spoke elegantly of the transition from staff member to firm leader. Trust emerged as a cornerstone of the discussion, and she emphasized the power that “honesty, transparency, and accountability” have had in developing her leadership style.
This commitment to transparency resonates deeply in the architecture profession, where balancing creativity with logistical stewardship is key to meeting client expectations. Maura noted that modern architects must master communication, coordination, and fiduciary oversight to establish credibility while delivering exceptional design.
With architecture facing a generational shift and declining enrollment in professional programs, the panel delved into the future of mentorship. Maura pointed out a significant shift from focusing solely on technical skills to prioritizing soft skills like adaptability and communication.
“Teaching young professionals how to say ‘I don’t know’ in a productive way is crucial,” she shared. She advocated for fostering a “heads-up mentality” early in one’s career, encouraging team members to balance technical proficiency with leadership potential. This approach, she argued, not only benefits individuals but strengthens the firm as a whole by preparing the next generation of architects to handle the multifaceted demands of the profession.
Leadership also entails cultivating meaningful client relationships and finding a personal voice in business development. For Trumble, this has meant building on CCY’s legacy while championing projects that positively impact local communities. “I’m proud of our work with nonprofits and workforce housing projects,” she said. “It’s rewarding to see our designs actively shaping and supporting the communities we serve.”
The panelists agreed on the importance of mentoring emerging leaders in client-facing roles, offering opportunities to learn the nuances of presentations, interviews, and project pitches. Maura reflected on her own growth, crediting early exposure to these situations as instrumental in developing confidence and expertise.
The challenges of remote work and shifting generational values were recurring themes throughout the discussion. Panelists emphasized the need for innovation in mentoring practices, particularly in maintaining the collaborative energy of in-person environments. Maura noted that the loss of “mentorship through osmosis,” where younger professionals learn by observing seasoned leaders, requires intentional effort to recreate in virtual settings.
As architecture evolves, so does the definition of leadership. Maura Trumble and her fellow panelists illustrated that leadership today involves more than managing projects—it’s about cultivating trust, inspiring teams, and pushing the boundaries of what architecture can achieve. For professionals at every stage, the insights shared at the AIA Colorado Design + Practice Conference serve as a roadmap for navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing industry.
