For far too long, the engineering profession has been largely perceived as, and indeed often was, a field dominated almost exclusively by men. This deeply entrenched “steel ceiling” has, however, begun to show significant cracks, thanks to the relentless determination and undeniable talent of a growing cohort of pioneering women. While remarkable progress has been made, the journey towards true equity and representation is far from over. To delve into this crucial topic, the prestigious Dallas Architecture Forum is proud to host an illuminating panel discussion titled, “Women Engineers Shaping the Built Environment.” This event promises to be a powerful exploration of the evolving landscape of engineering, highlighting the vital contributions of women and envisioning a more inclusive future.
This pivotal panel, expertly moderated by Maria Gomez, AIA, a distinguished leader in her own right, will bring together three extraordinary women who have not only shattered stereotypes but have also forged trailblazing leadership roles within the multifaceted engineering profession. We extend a warm invitation to join us on Wednesday, October 25th, 2023, for this insightful and entirely free panel discussion. Featuring the accomplished Camille Barton, Ann Piazza, and Emily Zoellner, the conversation will transcend mere technical aspects. It will deeply explore not only the absolutely essential role that engineering plays in the conception, design, and successful realization of innovative architectural projects, but also candidly address the persistent challenges and burgeoning opportunities that women encounter as they navigate and excel within the dynamic engineering field. This is an unparalleled opportunity to gain perspectives from those at the forefront of change.
The esteemed panelists will engage in a rich and comprehensive dialogue, touching upon a diverse array of critical subjects. Their discussions will commence with an exploration of their individual, often challenging, yet ultimately inspiring career trajectories, offering invaluable insights into the paths less traveled in engineering leadership. They will then articulate the indispensable role that engineers perform at every stage of the design process, from initial concept validation to final execution, underscoring the collaborative synergy required with architectural counterparts. Furthermore, the panelists will share captivating highlights from some of the most significant and impactful projects that have defined their illustrious careers, providing concrete examples of their influence on the built environment.
Beyond personal journeys and project showcases, the discussion will pivot to the crucial interplay between architects and engineers, dissecting how truly successful collaboration can be fostered to create more resilient and innovative structures. The panel will also shed light on the most compelling innovation trends currently sweeping through the industry, from advanced materials to cutting-edge digital tools. A particularly poignant area of focus will be how contemporary engineers are seamlessly incorporating principles of sustainability and resiliency into their projects, addressing the urgent demands of climate change and future-proofing our infrastructure. This segment will offer actionable insights into eco-conscious design and construction practices.
Moreover, a critical dimension of the panel discussion will center on actionable strategies for fostering greater gender equity. The panelists will profoundly explore how active mentorship, continuous and inclusive education initiatives, and powerful advocacy efforts can collectively and significantly increase the number of women entering and thriving in engineering. Their insights will articulate how these concerted efforts are paramount to incrementally, yet definitively, dismantling the remaining vestiges of the “steel ceiling,” ensuring a future where engineering is truly representative of all talent. This forward-looking segment will empower attendees with practical ideas for promoting diversity and inclusion within their own spheres of influence, driving meaningful systemic change.
The “Women Engineers Shaping the Built Environment” panel discussion is not only free of charge but also wholeheartedly open to all members of the public. This means it is an accessible and enriching event for students considering a STEM career, established professionals across all design disciplines, and indeed, any individual with an interest in urban development, architecture, or the critical role of women in shaping our modern world. The event on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at the iconic Angelika Theater, Mockingbird Station, will commence at 6:15 p.m. with a welcoming reception. This initial gathering provides a wonderful opportunity for informal networking, allowing attendees to connect with peers and the panelists in a relaxed setting. The main panel discussion itself will then formally begin at 6:30 p.m., promising an evening of profound insights, inspiring stories, and thought-provoking dialogue that aims to ignite conversations and drive progress long after the event concludes.
Meet the Influential Panelists: Driving Change in Engineering
Maria A. Gomez, AIA, LEED AP, stands as a distinguished Principal and Studio Director at GFF Architects in Dallas, a firm renowned for its innovative contributions to the built environment. Her journey began far from Texas, where she earned her Bachelor of Architecture from Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana in her native Colombia. After successfully establishing and managing her own architectural practice in Colombia, Maria made the significant decision to relocate to Texas, joining GFF in 1999. Her career at GFF has been marked by exceptionally diverse experience, encompassing a wide spectrum of projects from sophisticated corporate offices that redefine modern workspaces to essential institutional facilities that serve communities. Underlying all her work is a profound passion for sustainable design, a commitment that culminated in her esteemed achievement as a LEED-accredited professional. This credential reflects her deep expertise in designing environmentally responsible and resource-efficient buildings, making her a formidable advocate for green architecture and a testament to her forward-thinking approach.
Beyond her professional architectural endeavors, Maria is an incredibly active and influential force in numerous civic organizations, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to community enrichment and urban betterment. Her impressive roster of engagements includes serving on the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum Board, where she contributes to preserving history and promoting human dignity. She lends her expert eye to the City of Dallas Urban Design Peer Review Panel, shaping the aesthetic and functional future of the city. Her involvement with the Dallas Arboretum Board underscores her dedication to public green spaces, while her role on the Trinity Park Conservancy Design Advocacy Committee champions the development and preservation of vital urban parks. Maria’s leadership extends deeply within the architectural community itself; she served as the AIA Dallas President in 2020, guiding the chapter through unprecedented times, and has maintained a long-term leadership presence for both AIA Dallas and the Architecture and Design Foundation Board. Her expertise is highly sought after, leading her to serve as a Juror on numerous prestigious Design Award committees, including chairing the highly regarded Texas Society of Architects Design Awards. Maria was also instrumental in the creation of the North Texas Sustainable Showcase, an initiative that continues to promote sustainable building practices. Her many accolades speak volumes about her impact, including The Links Dallas Chapter Women Who STEAM Award, being the first recipient of the Trammell Crow Recognition Award for Outstanding Service, and receiving multiple Design Awards for her own innovative projects from AIA Dallas, Texas Construction, and the Bienal de Arquitectura. The Dallas Architecture Forum is particularly honored that Maria also dedicates her time and wisdom as a valued member of our Board of Directors, exemplifying her profound commitment to advancing architectural discourse and practice.
Camille Barton embarked on her impressive engineering career by joining Purdy-McGuire (PMI) in 2007, fresh from earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering at Texas Christian University (TCU). Her academic pursuits further distinguished her, as she subsequently obtained a Master’s Degree in Mathematics from Texas A&M University, demonstrating a strong foundation in analytical thinking. By 2012, Camille had achieved the significant milestone of becoming a Texas Licensed Professional Engineer, a testament to her technical expertise and dedication. She commenced her tenure at PMI primarily focusing on demanding National Accounts projects, where she rapidly cultivated a comprehensive understanding and proficiency in designing across all three core disciplines offered by Purdy-McGuire: mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems. This multidisciplinary mastery significantly broadened her capabilities and strategic value within the organization, propelling her through various leadership roles until she ultimately ascended to the highest position, joining the leadership team as CEO. Her journey from engineer to chief executive serves as a powerful inspiration for aspiring women in STEM.
Under Camille’s innovative and visionary leadership, Purdy-McGuire continues its trajectory of prosperity and growth, distinguished by its collaborative approach. The firm works hand-in-hand with owners and developers, as well as architects, to not just meet but truly ignite the vision for their buildings. This is achieved by meticulously designing critical, often “hidden” systems – the sophisticated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing infrastructures that reside within walls, ceilings, and floors. While unseen, these systems are absolutely vital to the seamless operation, comfort, safety, and efficiency of any modern building, from ensuring optimal air quality and temperature control to providing reliable power and water management. Camille’s leadership emphasizes integrated design solutions that support both aesthetic goals and functional imperatives. Beyond her corporate achievements, serving the community remains a deeply important personal value for Camille. She actively flexes her philanthropic muscle in several meaningful ways, notably having chaired the CREW Dallas Golf Classic Committee, an event that raises significant funds for community initiatives. She also served on the CREW in the Community (CIC) Board, dedicating her time to impactful local projects. Additionally, Camille plays a crucial advisory role, sitting on the Engineering Advisory Boards for both Kansas State University and Texas Christian University, where she contributes to shaping the curricula and future of engineering education, ensuring it remains relevant and inspiring for the next generation of engineers, particularly encouraging young women to pursue careers in the field.
Ann Piazza holds the esteemed title of Principal Emeritus with L.A. Fuess Partners (LAFP), which proudly stands as the largest single-discipline structural consulting firm within the dynamic Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Her career at LAFP spans an extraordinary thirty-seven years, a testament to her dedication, expertise, and profound impact on the firm and the built environment across the region. During her distinguished tenure, Ann contributed significantly to the firm’s strategic direction and growth, serving on its board of directors. She also demonstrated exceptional leadership as a team leader, principal-in-charge on countless projects, and ultimately rose to the influential position of vice president. Ann’s structural engineering prowess has been instrumental in the design of hundreds of iconic structures, not only throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area but also across the nation. Her portfolio is remarkably diverse and includes the intricate design of soaring corporate office buildings that define city skylines, luxurious high-rise residential towers that create vibrant urban communities, complex hospital facilities that are critical for public health, sprawling airport terminals that connect people globally, vast shopping malls that serve as retail hubs, foundational educational institutions, and sophisticated mixed-use developments that blend living, working, and leisure spaces seamlessly. Each project reflects her deep understanding of structural principles and her ability to bring architectural visions to life safely and efficiently.
In addition to her unparalleled professional achievements at LAFP, Ann has generously dedicated her time and expertise to multiple significant boards and committees, further underscoring her commitment to advancing the engineering profession and public safety. Her leadership roles include serving as President and Director of the Structural Engineers Association of Texas (SEAoT), where she played a pivotal role in shaping state-level structural engineering standards and policies. She also contributed her insights to the Dallas Standards and Rehabilitation Board, ensuring adherence to safety regulations and promoting urban renewal. Furthermore, Ann’s commitment to education and mentorship is evident through her service on the Virginia Tech Civil Engineering Alumni Board and the UT Arlington Civil Engineering Advisory Committee, where she helps guide future generations of engineers. Her extensive involvement in these organizations highlights her holistic approach to the engineering profession—not just building structures, but also building communities, fostering professional excellence, and supporting academic growth. Ann Piazza’s career is a powerful narrative of leadership, technical mastery, and unwavering dedication to her craft and the broader engineering community, making her an exemplary figure for women in engineering.
Emily Zoellner, PE, is a dynamic and essential Project Manager within Manhard Consulting’s thriving Dallas office. In this crucial role, she is responsible for skillfully leading and coordinating diverse teams throughout the comprehensive design process across multiple concurrent projects. Emily’s professional foundation is firmly rooted in Civil Engineering, with nearly a decade of hands-on experience specifically within the nuanced field of land development. A significant majority of this dedicated time has been sharply focused on driving development projects within the rapidly expanding Dallas metropolitan area, giving her an invaluable understanding of local regulations, environmental considerations, and market demands. Her expertise in civil engineering for land development encompasses everything from site grading and drainage design to utility infrastructure planning and roadway design, all of which are fundamental to transforming raw land into functional and sustainable communities. Emily’s ability to manage complex projects and guide her teams through intricate design phases makes her a key asset in shaping the urban landscape.
Beyond her demanding project management responsibilities, Emily is an exceptionally active and engaged member of several influential professional organizations that champion women and foster leadership within the commercial real estate and engineering sectors. She is a dedicated member of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Dallas, an organization renowned for advancing women in commercial real estate through networking, education, and leadership development. Her commitment to professional growth and industry involvement is further highlighted by her membership in the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), where she was notably selected for their highly competitive Associate Leadership Class of 2023. This program is designed to cultivate future leaders by providing immersive experiences and mentorship opportunities, further enhancing Emily’s already strong leadership capabilities. Emily is deeply passionate about the power of mentorship, recognizing its critical role in nurturing talent and guiding emerging professionals. She is also a fervent advocate for leadership development, continuously striving to empower herself and others. Crucially, Emily is a vocal champion for young women entering and navigating the industry, actively seeking to inspire, support, and provide guidance to help them overcome barriers and achieve their full potential. Her dedication to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in engineering makes her an inspiring figure and a valuable voice on the panel, reinforcing the critical need for continued advocacy and support.