Top Row: Nicole Falconer, Amber Summers, Gerri Kielhofner; Bottom Row: Taylor Greene, Samantha Hite, Rebecca Kwasnica
This March, in honor of #WomensHistoryMonth, we’re celebrating the talented women at BRP Architects and their significant contributions to architecture. While it’s true that architecture has been mostly male-dominated, women at BRP are proving their passion and skill in design, overcoming challenges along the way. We’re featuring 6 inspiring women from our team, sharing their advice for fellow women in or considering a career in architecture.
Gerri Kielhofner
Architect and Partner
Gerri received her Bachelor of Architecture from Kansas State University. In addition to licenses in nine states including Missouri, Gerri is certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards and is a graduate of the Leadership Springfield Class XIX. Gerri’s experience has involved concept design through construction close-out for projects of all sizes and types including extensive hospitality experience. She has also completed several worship and higher education projects. Gerri is past president of the Springfield Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, has served on the Construction Specifications Institute Board, and the Missouri State Elevator Board. She has a LEED AP BD+C accreditation and has served as project manager on several LEED-certified projects for the firm.
Gerri’s knowledge of materials and methods, gained from many years of experience with construction administration and in writing project specifications, has also been instrumental in helping her analyze building envelope failures resulting in water leakage. She also performs quality control reviews and assists clients with ADA issues.
“My advice to Women in Architecture is that you can make a difference because you are a woman! We perceive our environment differently than men, not that we are right, and they are wrong, but we need to represent the other half of society when designing because it just makes the world a better place to live.”
Amber Summers
Architect
Amber, originally from North Kansas City, MO, graduated from Kansas State University in 2018 with a Master of Architecture and a minor in regional and community planning. While attending K-State, she was an ambassador for the College of Architecture, Planning, and Design. She was also a member of APDPro, a professional development program, and a design studio mentor for second-year students. She worked with the economic development office of Clay Center, KS to create a downtown revival plan, and was a member of the Design + Make studio.
Since joining BRP she has worked on a variety of project types including Greenwood Laboratory School Multi-Purpose Addition, Holland House Dining Center infill, Clinton United Methodist Church, renovation and addition, Fort Worth Marriott renovation, and two event barns, one in Fort Worth, TX and one in Livingston, MT. She spends her free time with friends and playing with her two adorable cats, Rory and Reid.
"Never stop learning and seize every opportunity to grow, while also remembering to support and uplift other women in the journey. In this field, collaboration, not competition, is key at every step of the way."
Nicole Falconer
Architect
Nicole Falconer, originally from Warrensburg, MO, graduated from Drury University in 2016 with a Master of Architecture and a minor in art history. While attending Drury, she was involved in the Solar Decathlon competition, was the treasurer of AIAS (the American Institute of Architecture Students), worked in the Drury bookstore, and studied abroad in Aegina, Greece for a semester.
Since joining the firm after graduation, she has worked on several projects including Bass Pro’s Wonders of Wildlife, Cox College of Nursing, and hotel projects in Grand Rapids, MI and Scottsdale, AZ. Outside of work, Nicole enjoys hiking, reading, and slowly testing all of Springfield’s many craft breweries and coffee shops with her husband, Kyle. Her special skills include wrapping gifts, petting cute puppies, and keeping all of her plants alive. Nicole has also received her licensure and is a registered architect in the State of Missouri.
“Communication is such an undervalued skill in architecture. The ability to clearly and concisely communicate, both verbally and visually, with coworkers, clients, and consultants is vital to a successful project. And since architecture is a collaborative profession, continuing to develop that skill will benefit you as well as the rest of the team.”
Taylor Greene
Architectural Designer
Taylor, from Table Rock, Missouri, graduated from Drury University in May 2023 with a Masters in Architecture, a Minor in Graphic and Digital Design, a Minor in Fine Arts, and a Certificate in Solving Environmental Problems. While a student, she was involved in Drury’s American Institute of Architecture Students Organization. Taylor currently spends her free time writing a novel that incorporates architectural themes.
“Women are going into the field of architecture more than they have ever been. Their unique perspectives help shape architecture in a more inclusive and adaptable direction for a lot of people.”
Samantha Hite
Architectural Designer
Samantha, from Nixa, Missouri, graduated from Kansas State University’s College of Architecture Planning & Design in May 2023 with a Master's in Architecture. While a student, Samantha studied abroad in Orvieto, Italy during the Spring semester of her 4th year. She was also involved on her college campus as a Resident’s Assistant for the dorms during her Sophomore and Junior years. Samantha is very excited to enter the workforce as a young designer and extend her knowledge and passion for sustainability and concern for people in the design field.
“To those considering a career in Architecture/Design – I say pursue it but be ready to be challenged, this is a grueling field. To women already in school to earn their degrees – you go, girl! You are on your way to truly being a force to be reckoned with! The real world of Architecture is nothing like school – yes, you will still get critiques, sometimes you might stumble, but you probably won’t have anyone actively trying to make you quit. Know your worth, and accept criticisms, but don’t ever falter in your confidence. And to my ladies who have graduated/found themselves in the realm of design, I congratulate you for being that beacon for us young women who didn’t think this was a choice for us. Without you, I would not be where I am today, working in an office with coworkers I cherish. I wouldn’t be able to work with my passion and help others find their own. I wouldn’t have made the friendships that have supported me through my lowest points.”
Rebecca Kwasnica
Architecture Student Intern
Rebecca, from St. Peters, MO is currently a fourth-year student in the five-year NAAB-accredited Kansas State University Master of Architecture program. Engaged in an Architectural Internship facilitated by Kansas State University, she dedicates sixteen weeks to collaborating with a professional firm, immersing herself in new work environments and unfamiliar locations. Beyond her academic pursuits, Rebecca enjoys reading, painting, and bowling during her spare time.
“My advice for women in architecture is to trust yourself and your talent and to be confident with your ideas.”
