Women in Design 2019 - 28

Q&A with
Heather Chung

Vice President, Health Studio Leader
SmithGroup
What have been some of your greatest lessons learned?

I always thought that when I found my passion, I would figure out what I was good at or what I was meant
to do. But I've learned that finding a passion is more about the things you feel are worth fighting for. That's
when you realize it's not specifically about you and your career, but the change you want to see happen.
It's that passion that keeps you going: to endure certain failures and get through, or around, the barriers
to change. You just have to jump in and find out which ones resonate and which ones you think you can
change. That's what drives me.

There must be some interesting challenges and exciting opportunities that being a
woman in today's industry affords. What are some you have encountered?

I'm fascinated by the research that shows that women don't visualize themselves owning companies or
being president as a default because there are so few role models who look like us. As a child of immigrants,
I realize how important it is to have role models that reflect our different races, genders, and backgrounds.
But I've also learned that there is no singular style, personality, or characteristic of leadership, certainly
not the traditional, more paternalistic view of what makes a good leader. Good leadership is not only about
giving directions or structure but instilling a set of values and expectations. Women don't have to emulate
men to succeed; powerful leaders are able to find fluidity between many different styles.

smithgroup.com

Carey Elder

Senior Designer
Studio K Creative

How has your background influenced your career?

I started my career in high-end residential in Boston. I switched to the hospitality
industry shortly after moving to Chicago after I realized I wanted to be a part of
the projects Studio K was creating. I love to travel and explore new cities all over
the world and look to street-style fashion for inspiration on a daily basis. Alongside
principal Karen Herold, I have designed restaurants in Chicago, Scottsdale, and
Las Vegas; housing developments in Illinois, Michigan, and Washington; and I'm
working on our ninth Foxtrot Market. Currently, I am designing a members-only
club in Chicago with a focus on wellness.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Ask as many questions as you can think of and keep a notebook of what you've
learned. Keep in touch with your peers, mentors, former bosses, and colleagues,
and constantly seek out new opportunities within the field. I was so hungry to
succeed at the beginning of my career, but I was also determined to prove myself
and show people that I knew enough to handle the next task. As a result,
I probably asked less questions than I should have. Instead, I would go home
and google as much as I could. I've since learned that this is a collaborative
industry that is strengthened by experience. People are always willing
to help others, especially new designers who show they are eager to learn.

studiokcreative.com

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Women in Design 2019

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Women in Design 2019