Q: How did you get involved with SHYFT? How long have you been with us?
A: I became involved with SHYFT after graduating from the Architecture program at Arizona State University and working on the design team at a design development lab on campus. I always knew the next step for me after graduating would be to work at an architecture firm, and when I saw the opportunity to join the growing team in Arizona, I couldn’t pass it up. I have now been with SHYFT for about five months, and have really enjoyed my time so far.
Q: What are some projects you are currently working on?
A: Currently I am working on an office renovation for a non-profit. I have also been working on a master-planned community for the City of Minot and will be designing multi-family, single-family, and a rec center that will be a part of the master plan.
Q: What is the one thing you are most proud of since joining SHYFT?
A: Being able to work on local projects is rewarding to me, so one of the things I am most proud of is being a part of the aforementioned non-profit project. This non-profit organization helps underprivileged children and their families, so this project is really going to benefit a lot of people. I had a lot of input into the overall design of the building, and have already learned a lot throughout the process. I am excited to see it come to fruition and be able to check on its progress along the way!
Q: What are a few of your career highlights?
A: A career highlight for me is an instance where I feel that I’ve made a difference in someone’s life or put something good out into the world. One of those moments for me was being able to lead a team of students to design a concept for a campus “hub” for an HBCU (Historically Black College and University). We were able to involve students from the university to get their input on the design and provide them with renderings and a video to help the project gain traction. It was even featured by a United States senator on his YouTube channel!
Q: Tell us something unique about you.
A: Architecture is not the only way I like to express my creativity. I’ve tried just about every creative hobby one can have, but the activity I enjoy most is sewing. I love to make my own clothes and even alter clothing that I find at thrift stores and estate sales.
Thank you, Ally, for all you do for the SHYFT Team!