#74 Becoming CEO with Wendy Rogers, FAIA, CEO of LPA Design Studios

Wendy Rogers is CEO and Chief Talent Officer of LPA Design
Studios, an integrated design firm dedicated to creating projects
that innovate, inspire and improve people’s lives. Wendy leads a
team of more than 400 architects, engineers, landscape architects
and interior designers in California and Texas.  As CEO, she
handles the day-to-day operations of the firm, with a special
focus on increasing the role of LPA's proprietary research unit,
LPAred, and expanding LPA's unique informed design approach. As
Chief Talent Officer, she is also responsible for developing the
culture and lifestyle at the firm to retain and attract people
who want to grow and make a difference in the built environment.


Wendy is a vocal advocate for sustainable design and the
importance of using research to support design strategies. LPA
has made energy performance a core value of the firm. For two
years in a row, LPA was largest firm in the country to surpass
the AIA 2030 Commitment, which establishes annual targets for
reducing energy in projects. She is a regular speaker at events
advocating for designs that respond to the environment and the
needs of the people who use the spaces.


A graduate of California Polytechnic State University in Pomona,
California, Wendy is a LEED Accredited Professional and a Fellow
of the AIA.


In this episode Wendy talks about her career journey from
starting as an intern at LPA to being named CEO in 2017. Wendy
shares her advice for those who want to become leaders in their
organizations, how to foster a culture where people can bring
their authentic selves to work, and raising your hand for
something when you don’t think you’re ready yet. Wendy also talks
about being CEO during the pandemic, how she thinks architecture
firms will need to evolve in the future, and gives some great
advice for working parents.