Kathleen Shively

Allen 3D
CAD Lead

20 Years
in the Industry

How did you get started in the AEC Industry?

After serving in the military as an Inflight Refueling Operator in the U.S. Air Force, I earned my degree in Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD). My first role in the industry was as a Survey CAD Technician for a large Survey and Civil Engineering consulting firm in Philadelphia. It was there about 15 years ago that I was first introduced to laser scanning technology, which is a key part of my career.

What inspires you in your profession? Do you incorporate any unique perspectives or values into your area(s) of focus, and how do you think your experiences as a woman influence your work?

One of the most exciting aspects of working with reality capture data is the variety of projects that come my way. Each day presents something new—one day, I might be drafting architectural floorplans, and the next, I could be generating heat maps for floor flatness construction reports. I work with topographic survey data captured by unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) drones, create underground 3D utility models from subsurface utility engineering (SUE) data, and much more. The technology enables me to produce highly accurate digital models and maps with precise detail for design, analysis, and construction.

CAD Technicians often work behind the scenes, but our role is crucial. We gather and analyze all the collected data from field crews, scan data, surveyors, engineers, and architects. A key part of our job is ensuring that the processed data is accurate and that we deliver the highest-quality results efficiently and effectively.

When I first entered the industry, it was not common to see many women in the AEC industry. Women in this field may be scrutinized more, but I focus on my work and the skills I bring to the table. I let my abilities speak for themselves, proving that I am both capable and the right person for the job. If someone has reservations about working with women in the field, I believe that once they see what I can do, those doubts often fade. And if they don’t? I don’t let it become an issue. My goal is to have growth and opportunities in this industry.

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

I have great admiration for the younger generation entering the industry. They bring open minds and a natural familiarity with new technology and ideas. Fearless in testing new software, they effortlessly keep pace with emerging advancements in technology and are always ready to figure things out and make them work. I have had some wonderful mentors throughout my career.

When I first started out as a CAD Technician in Philadelphia I worked with Surveyor James Shomper, who was also a retired city of Philadelphia surveyor. He took the time to teach me the fundamentals of surveying and how to understand the information I was looking at. He was so patient and dedicated so much of his time to teaching me about surveys, and that knowledge was the foundation for my career in Survey CAD Drafting. He is fully retired now, and after all these years we still meet and chat about surveying and the transformation of technology in the field.

Throughout my career, I had Surveyors and Project Managers that would send me into the field with the survey crews to get a better understanding of the process of survey and laser scanning technology. It was such a valuable experience for me. These managers set the bar for standards high and expected high-quality work. If you are willing to put in the work, more opportunities will open.

How do you think your areas of focus can help address social issues, and how have you seen women lead the way in creating inclusive, equitable project outcomes?

I have certainly experienced gender bias throughout my different careers in technical fields. I have seen such a positive change for women working in the AEC industry. I have worked for some great companies that recognize women in engineering. I was apprehensive about participating in the different women’s programs that these companies offered. I thought, hey, I don’t want any special treatment because I am a woman. I soon realized that these programs offered the skills to navigate the challenges women face with adversity. Great conversations were had, and I took away valuable information. I only wish I had this type of support earlier in my career, both men and women entering the industry should take advantage of these programs.

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

I've had many fulfilling moments throughout my career, but historical preservation projects are especially rewarding. When I complete the final documentation for one, I see it as capturing a moment in time, perhaps even a future piece of history. I often wonder: Will someone look at this plan or model a hundred years from now?

One particularly meaningful project involved documenting cemeteries in Virginia. Every headstone was precisely located, and a government database was created, linking each soldier to their military records. As a veteran, I found it fascinating to know that families and historians can access this information to trace their heritage across generations.

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

Some of my most memorable projects include drafting the Statue of Liberty, a laser scanning project for analysis of the terreplein decking’s drainage. The opportunity to work on a national monument was incredibly exciting.

Another fascinating historical preservation project involved creating a 3D model of the attic space in St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Seeing the intricate interior structure of the centuries-old arches up close was an unforgettable experience.

Out in the field, I’ve had the chance to assist with laser scanning at iconic sites like the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, the New Jersey State House, and even the Versace store in New York City (where I got to see some pretty cool clothes too).

But if I had to choose a favorite, it might be documenting the world’s largest piñata for the Guinness World Records. I helped the surveyor create documentation exhibits for this massive donkey piñata, which was packed with around 8,000 pounds of candy. In the end, they had to use a wrecking ball to break it open!

What advice would you give women just entering the industry?

Discover the learning environment that suits you best. Would you prefer to start at a large firm with structured training programs and mentorship that are tailored to your position? Or do you see yourself thriving in a small but dynamic firm, where you can take on a variety of tasks, work with different technologies, and gain experience across multiple project types?

Culture and people make all the difference. It’s essential to be in an environment where you feel welcome and can grow. Stay focused, put in the effort, and the rewards will follow!