The Merit Of Mentorship

The Merit of Mentorship

A Note From Bill

    Mentoring is an important part of the architecture ecosystem. Ask any of us, and you’ll hear about how formative those early years in the field were, when you had guidance from those with decades more experience than you. Architecture school only teaches you so much; some design basics, technical terminology, and structural know-how—all important stuff, mind you—but mentorship teaches you how to apply that knowledge into real practice, with real people. 
    Throughout the years, I have always loved to mentor the younger generation of architects who have passed through the Studio21 Architects doors. Resident architect, Gregg, started his career at the firm as an intern and, after graduation, came on to work with us full time. Now, he is a fundamental part of this company. We also have Beck, currently our drafter, getting mentorship through Gregg and myself as he prepares for his licensing exams. He also joined the team as a part-timer while finishing his Masters, and now he is a full-time part of the firm, and the man behind all of the fantastic renderings you see.

Mentor and Mentee in Shadowman Style

​This year, in the spirit of continuing to help the next generation of architects, I brought in our current intern, Claire. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Architecture and, as part of her curriculum, she will be splitting her school year between working at a firm and taking classes at college. So far, she has gotten a glimpse into all of the facets of Studio21 Architects, from visits to the jobsite to learn about construction and Design+Build, to helping on Design Discovery Review investigations. 
    ​It is satisfying to see a great progression of knowledge in a 

young architect.  Letting them try some design ideas and then critiquing the various options in a manner that explains why one solution is better than the others, or maybe a combination of solutions, and discarding the one that sucks for various reasons.  Mistakes are a valuable learning opportunity, especially as a mentor, when you can explain the reasons why.

​    I had already decided that my career would be in architecture when I joined the Boy Scouts. So, I looked forward to obtaining the Scouting Architecture Merit Badge. I figured this would not only be easy, but also perfect for me. However, when I met with the merit badge counselor, an architect I had never met before, I was nervous and afraid.  I wasn’t prepared, and I was devastated because I didn’t earn the badge that evening.  However, what really disappointed me was that he didn’t give me any guidance and encouragement to move forward.  This was the first time that I questioned my decision on my career path.  What I needed at that moment was a good mentor.  This experience is something I have never forgotten.  I guess that is why I cherish the opportunity to teach others.  I encourage you to do the same and share your wealth of knowledge with others.

Boy Scouts Architecture Merit Badge

Until Next Time...

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Bill Styczynski

Bill Styczynski is the president of Studio21 Architects, as well as an architect in his own right. Every month, Bill writes an article for the Studio Pages newsletter about design topics that he believes will be informative, helpful reads for all of our clients, established and potential. ​