Women In Architecture

Top Row: Taylor Greene, Nicole Falconer; Bottom Row: Amber Summers, Samantha Hite, Gerri Kielhofner

This March, in honor of #WomensHistoryMonth, we’re celebrating the talented women at BRP Architects and their significant contributions to architecture. While it’s true that architecture has been mostly male-dominated, women at BRP are proving their passion and skill in design, overcoming challenges along the way. We’re featuring 5 inspiring women from our team, sharing their advice for fellow women in or considering a career in architecture.

Gerri Kielhofner

Architect and Partner

Gerri received her Bachelor of Architecture from Kansas State University and is licensed in nine states, including Missouri. She is NCARB certified, LEED AP BD+C accredited, and a graduate of Leadership Springfield Class XIX. Gerri joined Butler, Rosenbury & Partners, Inc. in 1987 and became a partner in 2001, playing a key role in growing the firm’s presence in the hospitality, higher education, and religious markets. She has served as project manager on over 40 hospitality projects across the U.S., including many for repeat clients developing multiple franchise brands. Her dedication to design excellence, attention to detail, and collaborative approach have enhanced the firm’s recognition both locally and nationally.

Gerri’s experience spans concept design through construction close-out on projects of all sizes and types, with extensive work in hospitality, worship, and higher education. She has managed several LEED-certified projects and leverages her deep knowledge of materials, construction administration, and project specifications to analyze building envelope failures, perform quality control reviews, and assist clients with ADA compliance.

Gerri has held multiple leadership positions in the industry, including past president of the Springfield Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, board member of the Construction Specifications Institute, and member of the Missouri State Elevator Board. Her passion for client service, commitment to quality, and leadership within the profession have made her a trusted figure in both the community and the architecture industry.

“I have truly enjoyed being a woman in the architectural world, and being a woman has never hindered my ability to practice in this field.  When I was a student, there were so few women in the field, but now women are well-represented, and I think the world finally realizes that women are fully qualified to be architects.”

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Amber Summers

Architect

Amber, originally from North Kansas City, MO, graduated from Kansas State University in 2018 with a Master of Architecture and minor in regional and community planning. While attending K-State, she worked with the economic development office of Clay Center, KS to create a downtown revival plan that has been implemented. She was a leading member of the Design + Make studio which focused on a renovation of a 1930’s kit house, this project was awarded a Merit award for XSmall architecture from AIA Kansas City. 

Since joining BRP she has worked on a variety of project types including: Greenwood Laboratory School Multi-Purpose Addition, Holland House Dining Center infill, Clinton United Methodist Church, renovation and addition, Fort Worth Marriott renovation, Homewood Suites in Springfield, MO, Tru Hotel in Columbia, MO, Hampton Inn and Suites in Belgrade MT, Delta Hotel and Convention Center in Wichita Falls, TX, a Wine Cave in Livingston, MT and two event barns, one in Fort Worth, TX and one in Livingston, MT. She is an active member with the American Institute of Architects and is board member for AIA Springfield, AIA Missouri, and the local chapter of Young Architects Forum. She spends her free time with friends, reading, and cuddling with her two adorable cats, Rory and Reid.

"Trust yourself! Believe in your abilities, your ideas, your voice, and know that you belong at the table.”

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Nicole Falconer

Architect

Nicole Falconer, originally from Warrensburg, MO, graduated from Drury University in 2016 with a Master of Architecture and minor in art history. Since joining the firm after graduation, she has worked on several local projects including Bass Pro’s Wonders of Wildlife, the Ozark Empire Fair Arena, and an office building for the Noble Hill Landfill. She has also worked on hotel projects in Arizona, Arkansas, Michigan, Montana, and Texas.

Outside of work, Nicole enjoys hiking, reading, and slowing testing all of Springfield’s many craft breweries and coffee shops with her husband, Kyle. She currently serves on Springfield’s Landmarks Board, and volunteers with the National Council of Architectural Registration Board. Nicole is also a registered architect in the State of Missouri.

“Though architecture is still a male-dominated career, it is becoming less so with each passing year. There are so many talented women in the profession that are happy to offer advice and guidance, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek out mentors!”

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Taylor Greene

Architectural Designer

Taylor, from Reed’s Spring Missouri, graduated from Drury University in May 2023 with a master’s in architecture, a Minor in Graphic and Digital Design, a Minor in Fine Arts, and a Certificate in Solving Environmental Problems. While a student, she was involved in Drury’s American Institute of Architecture Students Organization. Taylor currently spends her free time taking care of her plants and researching her family’s ancestry. 

“Women in architecture challenge conventions, break barriers, and bring diverse perspectives that enrich the fabric of the profession.”

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Samantha Hite

Architectural Designer

Samantha, from Nixa, Missouri, holds a Master’s in Architecture from Kansas State University’s College of Architecture, Planning & Design, earned in May 2023. During her academic career, she enriched her education with a study abroad experience in Orvieto, Italy, where she studied historic and cultural design. Samantha is deeply committed to her community and sustainability, which is reflected in her work on various projects within the firm. She has contributed to a diverse range of architectural projects, from residential to commercial developments, showcasing her versatility and dedication to innovative design solutions. Samantha is an active member of the Urban Land Institute of Southwest Missouri (ULI SWMO), where she leverages her design knowledge and community passion to drive impactful initiatives. Additionally, Samantha serves as an AIA Missouri Associate Board Member, further demonstrating her leadership and commitment to the architectural profession. 

"Being a woman in architecture has been both challenging and rewarding. Each day, I sometimes question my abilities and feel the weight of imposter syndrome, which is common among women in construction fields. Despite this, we are making significant strides for future generations of women. What helps me overcome these doubts is the support from other strong and talented women who listen to my concerns and celebrate my successes. I am grateful to be part of this field, knowing I have an incredible network of people behind me. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future in architecture."