MEGAN WALZ
JLG Architects
SAY IT LOUD - SOUTH DAKOTA Exhibitor
South Dakota Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
As an intern, I worked with a woman who still inspires me today. She uplifted my confidence as a young professional and inspired me to mentor others. It's not easy as a young woman in a field dominated by men, but she taught me to find my voice.
MEGAN WALZ
Bio:
The great designer Megan Walz is a Registered Architect and Job Captain at JLG Architects in Sioux Falls, SD, with over five years of experience in complex healthcare, industrial, education, and community-driven projects. She earned a B.S. in Architectural Studies, a Minor in Studio Art, and a Graphic Design Certificate from South Dakota State University in 2017, followed by a Master of Architecture in 2019. Megan is a member of the American Institute of Architects and the AIA Emerging Professionals.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I’ve always been interested in the built environment, especially historic buildings. In college, I joined the architecture program to pursue it as a profession, and it felt like the right fit for me. I loved applying my creativity to new solutions.
What do you do?
As an Architect, I design and document projects for public health, safety, and welfare. From schematic design to construction, I work with engineers, consultants, and construction managers to balance client needs with sustainable, thoughtful design.
What excites you in the work you do?
I love being able to work on projects that have a positive impact on the community, particularly those that benefit the lives of the user. Creating something that helps people to thrive brings me the most joy and fulfillment.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
As an intern, I worked with a woman who still inspires me today. She uplifted my confidence as a young professional and inspired me to mentor others. It's not easy as a young woman in a field dominated by men, but she taught me to find my voice.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
Becoming licensed was a huge accomplishment that took years of education, work experience, and testing. I am very proud to be able to call myself an Architect.
Featured Project Name:
South Dakota One-Stop
Featured Project Location:
Rapid City, SD
Featured Project Completion Date:
August 2022
Role in Featured Project:
Architect
Featured Project Description:
This project reflects a paradigm shift for state offices once housed in low-rent leased spaces in Rapid City, SD - showing the unity of several unique departments in one beautiful, modernized office. Our team worked with seven different stakeholders to consolidate departments and increase daylight with narrow floor plates and strategically placed open offices. Adjacencies between departments were based on needs for exterior access, security, future growth, flexibility, and shared resources.
