Professional Profile: Susan Heersema
Lab Design News spoke to Susan Heersema, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, senior laboratory architect with HERA Laboratory Planners, about the most essential soft skill she recommends for lab architects, her favorite coffee shop order, and her best piece of advice for those entering the lab design/build field.
Q: What sparked your interest in designing labs—was there a defining moment that led you to this career?
A: In 2010 I had an opportunity to work on a multi-disciplinary academic science building for the University of Chicago. When the users described their needs, I was astonished to learn how essential the performance of their space is in conducting their science. It is so much fun to listen to what researchers, clinicians and scientists are trying to do, then help create high performance environments for them that are safe, beautiful and effective.
Q: What is your favorite career highlight so far?
A: Every single time I go on the jobsite and see a project coming to life, I get an adrenaline rush. I love the smell of fresh concrete, the sound of a trowel scraping on masonry, and I love to talk with the trades about how to solve conflicts in the field.
Q: If you weren't in this profession, what job would you like to have instead?
A: Forensics, so I can work from a result backwards. Or maybe restoration, to bring life back to something neglected or damaged.
Q: What is your favorite building, lab-related or not?
A: I recently had a chance to watch a movie in the Las Vegas Sphere. I was completely overwhelmed by how immersive the environment was.
Q: What's your typical order when you visit a coffee shop?
A: A huge cup of dark roast with lots of room for milk.
Q: What is one important “soft skill” that all lab design experts should have?
A: Listen for the pain points—sometimes an obstacle can be an opportunity to innovate.
Q: If you won a multi-million-dollar lottery tomorrow, what would you do with your winnings?
A: Travel the world, open a bed-and-breakfast, open a cat café, and throw a big party for all my friends and family.
Q: If you could tell your younger self something, what would it be?
A: Some projects are years in the making, so you are not designing for the science and needs of today—you are designing for the future. Don’t let immediate problems make you lose sight of the long term.
Q: What kinds of hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?
A: Travel, science fiction, home renovation, and exploring my city.
Q: What is the best piece of professional advice you have received?
A: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You have a whole community of colleagues and resources to support you!
Q: For someone entering this career field, what advice would you give them?
A: One fast way to learn a lot about conflict resolution is to sit next to senior people that are on the phone all day and eavesdrop on their conversations, especially when they get excited or frustrated.
Q: What is your favorite vacation spot?
A: Tokyo, without a doubt. I adore the density of the city, the quirkiness of the shops, the loving preparation of the food, the indulgence of the onsens, and the customs and behaviors of the people that live there.
Q: What’s a common misconception about your job?
A: Some folks feel science spaces are “too technical” to be any fun to design. But I find it immensely satisfying to solve puzzles, make connections and support such an aspirational community of users!
Q: What are you most looking forward to in this new role?
A: I am delighted to have the opportunity to learn from and work beside HERA’s planners, architects, and subject matter experts, serve the science community, and have fun!
