Name: Stephanie Vito, AIA, ACHA
Title: Vice President
Company: Cannon Design
Where are you from? Syracuse
How many years of experience do you have? 13
What Industry of Architecture do you work in? Behavioral Health, Mental Health Programming, Planning & Design.
What is the most inspiring part of your job? I specialize in mental/behavioral healthcare design and, given the nature of this work, I get to work on projects nationally. I constantly interact with, and learn from, amazing colleagues and clients from all over the country, each with different perspectives. It helps me feel like I am learning and growing all the time. It is also rewarding knowing that my work is helping the most vulnerable members of our society through design.
What’s your favorite part about being an AIA member? Attending any event that celebrates the talented people in our community…especially the events that are emceed by Mike A. :)
What advice would you want to pass along to young professionals entering your industry? This first part is less advice and more nostalgia. I remember learning so much by just being in a bustling office environment – overhearing conversations, bumping into people, random encounters, personal connection, chances to be nosy and so on. I would ask the profession in general to explore how the new, more virtual way of working, can incorporate these types of encounters and learning opportunities for young professionals. What is the “virtual buzz”? When it comes to advice, I’d say, ask a million questions, listen and stay persistent (yes, those first two might contradict each other).
How do you balance your work life with your outside passions? I try to close the laptop at the end of the day and to keep it closed. It took me a while in the beginning of the pandemic to not open things back up at the end of the night. The laptop and multiple monitors had permanently invaded my personal space and the boundary took a while for me to reinstate. I also really limit work on the weekends so I can refresh and spend undistracted time outdoors and with my family.
Is there anything you would like to share about yourself? I’ve had the pleasure of learning from some great mentors during my career, including multiple kick a** women who showed me how to stand in a boardroom and deliver. To them, my friends, colleagues, parents and family, I’d like to say thank you for the learning opportunities, listening ears, coffees, glasses of wine and never-ending support!