Leah Matern Zeisler

Matern Professional Engineering
Director of Education Division

14 Years
in the Industry

How did you get started in the AEC Industry?

My journey into the AEC industry began early, thanks to my father, who is an electrical engineer working in the industry. Growing up, I was exposed to the ins and outs of the field, which sparked my interest. By the time I reached high school, I knew this was the career path I wanted to pursue.

My father was incredibly supportive of my decision and encouraged me to pursue the best education possible. He helped guide me toward Penn State, known for having the top Architectural Engineering program in the country. I was fortunate to attend such a prestigious school, and from day one, I knew I had made the right choice. The program was challenging, but it was exactly where I wanted to be, and it solidified my passion for the AEC industry. Looking back, I’m grateful for the foundation my father provided and how his influence shaped my career journey.

What inspires you to design? Do you incorporate any unique perspectives or values into your designs, and how do you think your experiences as a woman influence your work?

What inspires me to design is the opportunity to create spaces that make a difference in people’s lives, especially with education projects. I have the privilege of working on projects that directly impact the learning environment for students of all ages. Seeing a finished school building and knowing that it will play a role in helping students learn, grow, and thrive, brings me immense joy and satisfaction. It's fulfilling to know that my work has a lasting impact and contributes to creating an environment that nurtures our future leaders.

From an engineering perspective, my number one priority in design is safety. I integrate safety into every stage of the design process, as safety is the foundation of any successful building.

As a woman in this field, I believe my experiences offer a unique perspective. I approach challenges with a mindset that is inclusive and focused on collaboration, valuing diverse viewpoints and solutions. Being a woman has also shaped my approach to mentorship, and I aim to inspire other young women to pursue careers in design and engineering, knowing that they can bring fresh perspectives to the industry. Ultimately, my goal is to create spaces that are not only functional but also safe, welcoming, and empowering for everyone who uses them.

Who have your role models been? Have you had any mentors throughout your career, and how have they shaped your journey in architecture?

My primary role model has always been my father, Doug Matern. He has been an incredible source of support throughout my life and career. Not only has he pushed me to be the best engineer I can be, but he also exemplifies what it means to be a successful leader and entrepreneur. Watching him build a successful business has taught me valuable lessons about hard work, perseverance, and the importance of fostering a positive work environment. His guidance has been instrumental in shaping my approach to both engineering and leadership.

In addition to my father, I’ve been fortunate to have a mentor in Adrian Baus. From the very start of my career, Adrian has been a wealth of knowledge in the engineering industry. He has always made himself available to offer guidance, share his expertise, and help me navigate the challenges of the field. His mentorship has been invaluable, helping me grow not only as an engineer but also as a professional in the industry. The lessons I’ve learned from both of them have been crucial in shaping my journey and continue to inspire me every day.

How do you think architecture can help address social issues, and how have you seen women lead the way in creating inclusive, equitable spaces?

As someone who works on designing schools, I see firsthand how the architecture of a building can significantly impact a student’s ability to learn and succeed. The environment in which students learn plays a crucial role in their overall experience, and thoughtful, well-designed spaces can help foster creativity, focus, and a sense of belonging. For example, creating environments that are safe, accessible, and conducive to collaboration can help all students thrive, regardless of their background or individual needs. Architecture can play a pivotal role in addressing social issues by designing spaces that give every student, regardless of their circumstances, the best opportunity to succeed.

As a woman in the industry, I believe we bring a unique perspective to the design process. Many of us, especially those who are mothers, are naturally inclined to create spaces that support not just our own children, but all children. We have an inherent desire to nurture and provide the best possible opportunities for future generations. This drive influences our approach to designing inclusive, equitable spaces that ensure every individual has the chance to reach their full potential.

I’ve seen women lead the way in creating these kinds of spaces, advocating for designs that prioritize the needs of all users, and pushing for environments where inclusivity and equity are at the forefront of the design process. It’s inspiring to be part of an industry that is increasingly focused on these values, and I’m proud to contribute to that change.

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

I believe we’re headed in the right direction when it comes to sustainability in our industry. Across the globe, many companies and innovators are working hard to develop new, sustainable energy sources; if these efforts are successful, they have the potential to change the world for the better. It's exciting to see the momentum around sustainability growing, with more focus on eco-friendly solutions and reducing our environmental impact.

That being said, one of the largest challenges we face today is that many of the sustainable options available aren’t always budget-friendly. While they may be ideal from an environmental perspective, the cost can be prohibitive, especially in certain sectors. However, I’m optimistic that new technologies will emerge soon that are not only sustainable but also more cost-effective. Suppose we can strike a balance between affordability and sustainability. In that case, I believe it will drive even greater adoption of these solutions, allowing us to make a meaningful, positive impact on the environment without compromising on financial feasibility.

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

For me, the most fulfilling moments of my career aren’t tied to a single event but rather a collection of experiences. One of the most exciting aspects of my work is being able to drive around my city and see buildings that I’ve contributed to. Each time I pass one of those structures, it’s a reminder of the impact I’ve had in shaping the spaces people interact with daily. Knowing that my work plays a role in creating environments where people learn, work, or live is incredibly rewarding. It reinforces the idea that what I do in my career makes a positive difference, not just for today, but for the future. These moments of realization have shaped my professional journey by constantly motivating me to keep pushing for excellence, as I know that every project has the potential to make a meaningful impact on others.

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

Some of my favorite projects have been those that were particularly personal to me. One of them was the sports field lighting design at Orangewood Christian School. While it was a smaller project, it was incredibly meaningful to me because it’s the school where I attended elementary and middle school. Being able to contribute to a place that played such a significant role in my early education was deeply fulfilling.

Another project that stands out is the Career Vocational Education Building at Seminole High School, which I had the privilege of designing several years ago. Seminole is where I attended high school, and it felt truly special to give back to a school that was instrumental in shaping my path. Both of these projects allowed me to contribute to the institutions that helped build the foundation for my success as an engineer, and that sense of giving back makes them especially memorable for me.

What advice would you give women just entering the industry?

My advice to women just entering the industry is to remember that the foundation for a successful career is built on hard work, but it’s also important to love what you do. You’ll spend a significant portion of your life working, so it’s crucial to find a career that excites and inspires you. Passion for your work will drive you through the challenges and keep you motivated.

I also live by a quote from Michael Dell – "Try never to be the smartest person in the room. And if you are, I suggest you invite smarter people or find a different room.” Surround yourself with people who challenge you, who bring different perspectives, and who push you to grow. Constantly seek to learn, evolve, and elevate your skills—because that’s how you truly thrive in this industry.