Professional Profile: Natalie Szymanski
Natalie Szymanski, AIA, NCARB
Natalie Szymanski, AIA, NCARB, is a senior laboratory architect with HERA Laboratory Planners in St. Louis, MO. Lab Design News spoke to Natalie about the importance of curiosity in the workplace, movie nights with her family, and creating the help you need in order to get the job done.
Q: How did you get started in your career? Did you major in your field in college, get an internship, switch careers mid-stream, etc.?
A: At the age of seven, I wanted to be an architect. I was always sketching houses/buildings and floorplans in my free time. I held onto this dream until I entered high school science classes and fell in love with chemistry, especially. As a junior in high school, I was torn [between] my love for architecture or my love for science. As applying to college came close, I had to make a decision and my final thought was that I didn’t want to work in a dreary basement, looking through a microscope the rest of my life. I chose architecture and have made it my passion and career goal to build scientists beautiful labs with natural light and collaborative workspaces.
I attended Savannah College of Art and Design where I earned my bachelor of fine art degree in architecture. I went on to obtain my master of architecture degree from Lawrence Technological University. My career began in healthcare architecture, shifted to laboratory planning, and now I work on all laboratory typologies including forensics, R&D, government, university, vivariums, pharmaceutical, and healthcare.
Q: What is one important skill that all lab design experts should have?
A: Curiosity is an essential asset in the workplace. The ability to formulate insightful questions holds significant value. A genuine interest in the operations of the laboratory, understanding the roles of each scientist, exploring their methodologies, identifying the equipment they employ, and discussing their visions for the future contributes to the development of a laboratory that is purposefully tailored to meet its objectives and mission.
Q: What kinds of hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?
A: My favorite leisure activity outside of work involves spending quality time with my family. I have two young children who bring immense joy and laughter to my daily life. During the summer, we prioritize activities such as swimming and camping, as well as enjoying roller coasters and playing board games. While I find it challenging to sit through a full-length movie, I always appreciate cozying up on the couch to watch an episode of their current interest.
Q: What is the biggest work-related challenge you've faced? How did you overcome it?
A: Identifying the right fit among firms specializing in laboratory design posed a significant challenge for me. I have a vibrant personality and strongly value a positive and enjoyable work environment. Given that we often spend more hours with our colleagues than with our families, workplace culture is crucial to me. It was difficult to find a firm that shares my commitment to a strong organizational culture. This, along with many other factors, is why I am passionate about working at HERA Laboratory Planners. I believe in being honest with myself about my desires and remaining persistent until I achieve my goals, which ultimately helped me overcome this challenge.
Q: What's your typical order when you visit a coffee shop?
A: Large/extra-large vanilla or caramel latte with an extra shot of espresso.
Q: What is your go-to takeout order?
A: I love Japanese, steak hibachi, and sushi, potstickers, and soup.
Q: If you could tell your younger self something, what would it be?
A: Don’t be afraid of change. Being challenged is how we grow.
Q: For someone entering this career field, what advice would you give them?
A: Always follow your passion. Don’t be afraid to say no. Create the help you need—set up the opportunity to shadow or to do professional development in any area you feel is lacking. Be honest with yourself about your shortcomings and work hard to overcome them. Develop a listening ear.
