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Lead, Grow, Thrive: Advancing Your Career & Practice

THUR-A09: Behind Closed Doors: Candid Lessons from Women Who Founded Design Firms

Thursday, September 17, 2026
8:30 AM - 9:45 AM PT
1.25 PDH, LA CES/HSW

Women are launching landscape architecture firms at growing rates, yet the realities of ownership remain largely unspoken. This candid panel brings together three founders to share hard-earned lessons on capital, credibility, leadership, and balance—offering honest insights, practical strategies, and encouragement for emerging and mid-career professionals pursuing firm ownership.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Identify common structural and cultural challenges women face when founding design firms, including credibility gaps, access to opportunity, staffing realities, and leadership expectations.
  • Apply practical strategies for launching and sustaining a firm, including financial management, business development systems, and leadership structures aligned with personal values.
  • Evaluate multiple pathways to firm ownership, recognizing diverse models of scale, growth pacing, partnership, and long-term success.
  • Access relevant resources, networks, and support systems that strengthen entrepreneurial capacity and reduce isolation in professional practice.