Katherine Klosowski-Blatz

AltusGroup
Executive Director

25 Years
in the Industry

How did you get started in the AEC Industry?

Like many college kids, I didn't know what I wanted to be when I grew up. I was fortunate to get an entry-level job at a chemical company in Piscataway, New Jersey. I began my career in the Environmental Health and Safety department as a product steward in our Responsible Care program. This philosophy of cradle-to-grave stewardship sparked a passion in me for sustainable construction, ultimately leading me into the AEC industry.

What inspires you to design?

As someone in the building products industry for nearly 30 years, I've come to appreciate and be inspired by both the artisans of history and today's dynamic designers. I find structures that have survived the ages to be full of rich cultural significance. I hope the projects I have contributed to over the years will stand the test of time and remain for future generations.

Do you incorporate any unique perspectives or values into your designs?

As a professional in the concrete products industry, resilience and tradition have always been core to my work with the building team. I view myself as a preserver of tradition, both in my everyday life and in how I approach structures. My hope is to try to balance cultural heritage with functionality, ensuring they honor the past while serving the needs of the present and future.

How do you think your experiences as a woman influence your work?

As a woman, I believe I have brought a unique perspective of team building, collaboration, and work ethic to my career. My experiences have shaped my focus on creating and restoring spaces that are enduring, thoughtful, and creative, while remaining deeply connected to history and tradition where possible. And at the same time, I enjoy supporting modern innovations and design, helping designers bring their ideas to life.

Who have your role models been, and have you had any mentors throughout your career?

I have been blessed with many role models and mentors throughout my career. As doors opened and my career evolved, new people emerged as individuals I admired and often sought guidance from. It is not hard to find good people in our industry, both men and women, and I have been fortunate. I'd say the hardest part is being brave enough to ask for support. It's not a weakness. It's a blessing.

How did these role models shape your journey in architecture?

Many women across my career have played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. The ones who stand out the most taught me to be brave, fearless, humble, hardworking, and above all, passionate. Their lessons and encouragement helped me navigate challenges and grow into the professional I am now.

How do you think architecture can help address social issues?

I believe architecture and the build environment are at the heart of our communities. From the family home to the community park, places of worship, or stadiums full of fans, we design to bring people together and foster a sense of belonging. Thoughtful design can address social issues by creating spaces that unite, support, and serve our communities, encouraging connection and inclusivity.

How have you seen women lead the way in creating inclusive, equitable spaces?

I have been inspired by many strong women leaders who bring creativity and passion to designing structures and spaces that prioritize inclusivity. Their attention to detail, from the physical structure to the interior design, ensures these spaces foster togetherness and serve the needs of today while planning for the needs of tomorrow. These women lead with empathy and a deep understanding of how architecture can shape communities.

How do you see the conversation on sustainability going in our industry?

Starting my career in the Environmental Health and Safety department, sustainability has always been top of mind for me. Over my 30 years in the industry, I have seen the terminology and trends change, but the essence of sustainability has remained constant. Our commitment as an industry has only grown stronger. We are stewards of this earth, and we have a responsibility to conserve, to innovate and to build in a responsible manner to not only solve the problems of the day, but to anticipate the needs of the future.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far, and how did it shape your professional journey?

Honestly, I have stayed in the construction industry my entire career because the act of building, preserving, and restoring the environment around us fulfills me on a daily basis. I truly love this industry and the incredible people in it: a passion I have been blessed to share with my late father, who was an engineer, and my daughter, who is a contractor. Being able to share this love for the industry across generations is the ultimate fulfillment.

Tell us about some of your favorite projects you’ve worked on.

I could go on for days about the amazing projects I have been fortunate to be a part of, but two stand out as especially meaningful to me.

The first is the restoration work at Wrigley Field. From concrete repair to waterproofing, the maintenance of such a structure is never ending. Preserving this iconic structure where loyal Cubs fans unite in victory and in console one another in loss was a true lesson in resiliency in construction and team spirit!

The second would be the preservation work I was involved in through the Concrete Preservation Institute under the leadership of one of my mentors, Dr. Tanya Komas. She included me early on in her work on Alcatraz Island and in Pearl Harbor. The rich history of both projects, combined with her mentorship at a time when I was developing my leadership skills, left a lasting impact on me. Her passion for preservation continues to inspire me today.

What advice would you give women just entering the industry?

Times have certainly changed since I entered the industry, and there are now so many more women to look to for role models and mentorship. The best advice I can give is to find your passion, discover what drives you and pursue it wholeheartedly. Look for success stories that inspire you and emulate them. Be fearless, know your worth, and never stop learning. This industry is full of opportunities, and your confidence and dedication will carry you far.