“This is just my life – I don’t feel like I’ve accomplished anything big until someone reminds me of it,” remarked Liz Rae, a single mother on the verge of obtaining her architectural license all while building her own home.
In an industry predominantly occupied by men, Rae’s path to becoming a licensed architect exemplifies perseverance and determination amidst opposition. Liz decided she wanted to go back to architecture school, and in 2013 she did just that – just 11 months after giving birth to her daughter. Rae credits her father for encouraging her to push forward and attend North Dakota State University (NDSU), despite becoming a new mother. Rae leaned on her support system and made it work. As a result, she became one of about 50 students to be admitted that year and proceeded to graduate from NDSU’s exceedingly competitive architecture program.
Now, having logged over 3,750 hours of supervised work experience and nearly completing her licensing exams through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), Rae stands at the cusp of her full licensure. Often weaving in time for flashcards between work and parenting responsibilities, her final tests represent the thousands of hours poured into daily study sessions and training in application.
Rae did, however, put an emphasis on her shortcomings in her journey, “During covid it was really hard to find motivation and sometimes even direction amid a global pandemic.” However, by leaning into her support system and her desire to succeed, she was able to keep pushing forward in a virtual world.
The pandemic taught Rae valuable lessons she’s holding onto to this day. The most profound lesson being, ‘Don’t put yourself in a box’. We often have a strong idea on our life’s direction; however, Rae’s most defining moments were times when she was able to respond to an unexpected obstacle with nothing but her best. Her tenacity and fervor for her own self-improvement will only continue to propel her towards success.
Currently employed at CWG Architecture + Interiors, Rae found a workplace that actively supports healthy work-life balance; a crucial need for a single parent. “CWG attracted me with their commitment to maintaining reasonable hours and supporting professional development,” she notes. They have kept their word to Rae. CWG covers her NCARB membership, provides study materials for licensing exams, reimburses her for exams she passes, and pays her during the time it takes to test.
If working on licensure wasn’t enough, Rae’s accomplishments extend far beyond the office. She’s currently participating in the Helena Area Habitat for Humanity’s Homeownership Program, contributing twice a week to building her future home, along with the homes of her soon-to-be neighbors. Her homebuilder group has committed every Thursday evening and Saturday to accomplish the goal of owning a home. Helena Area Habitat for Humanity’s program allows her to put her architectural knowledge into practice firsthand. Rae finds it very rewarding when she can have a direct impact on the creation of her home.
For other parents contemplating higher education while parenting, Rae offered some of her own insight: “Think about it in the long run – what do you want to teach your kids? –Chase your dreams no matter what you’re going through in life. Children are our lives, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on your own goals.” Rae’s passion for learning and achieving shapes her outlook on life: “It’s kind of against human nature to be stagnant.” Rae also accredited her support system many times. “As a single parent, having a support system that invests in you and your dreams is invaluable.”
As she approaches this career milestone of becoming an Architect, Rae maintains her humility while acknowledging the industry’s need for becoming more open to women. “To make a change, you have to show up and be the difference yourself,” she states, embodying this philosophy through her own journey of persistence and growth through every facet of life.
– Landon Humphrey and Kylie Kackman, Marketing
