Auburn University Grad Makes History as Youngest Licensed Female Architect in U.S.
Table of Contents
- 1. Auburn University Grad Makes History as Youngest Licensed Female Architect in U.S.
- 2. A Promising Career Trajectory
- 3. Learn More About Architectural Licensure
- 4. What advice would you give too young women aspiring to enter the architecture field?
- 5. Breaking Barriers: An Interview with Drew Haley Smith, the Youngest Licensed Female Architect in the U.S.
- 6. From Auburn to Architectural History
- 7. Building a Career at Seay, Seay & Litchfield Architects
- 8. The Future of Architecture and Design
- 9. Join the Conversation
Drew Haley Smith,a recent graduate of Auburn University’s architecture program,has achieved an extraordinary milestone. At just 23 years old, Smith holds the title of youngest licensed female architect in the United States.
Smith, who now works as an architect and project manager at Seay, Seay & Litchfield Architects (SS&L) in Montgomery, Alabama, completed the rigorous licensure process in a remarkable six months.
A Promising Career Trajectory
Jimmy Seay Jr., senior principal at SS&L, recalls meeting Smith during her freshman year.”her work was just exquisite. the composition of her resume and portfolio was really unbelievable. She was so friendly and could explain things really well. It was a no-brainer. She checked all the boxes, and we said ‘we’re going to fore sure hire her,'” he shared.
Smith’s story is a testament to the dedication and talent of young architects entering the field.Her achievement highlights the importance of supporting and fostering the next generation of design professionals.
Learn More About Architectural Licensure
Interested in learning more about the path to becoming a licensed architect? Check out our Archinect In Depth: Licensure series for insights and resources.
What advice would you give too young women aspiring to enter the architecture field?
Breaking Barriers: An Interview with Drew Haley Smith, the Youngest Licensed Female Architect in the U.S.
In a groundbreaking achievement, Drew Haley Smith, a recent Auburn University graduate, has become the youngest licensed female architect in the United States at just 23 years old. Now working as an architect adn project manager at Seay, Seay & Litchfield Architects (SS&L) in Montgomery, Alabama, Smith completed her licensure in an impressive six months. We sat down with her to discuss her journey,challenges,and vision for the future of architecture.
From Auburn to Architectural History
Q: Drew, congratulations on this amazing milestone! What inspired you to pursue architecture at such a young age?
Drew Haley Smith: Thank you! I’ve always been fascinated by how spaces influence people’s lives. Even in high school, I loved sketching designs and imagining how buildings could tell stories.Auburn’s architecture program was the perfect place to turn that passion into a career. The faculty and resources there really helped me grow.
Q: You completed the licensure process in just six months—a feat that typically takes years. How did you manage that?
Drew Haley Smith: It was definitely intense! I treated it like a full-time job, dedicating hours every day to studying and preparing for the exams. Having a strong support system at SS&L and my professors at Auburn made a huge difference.They believed in me, which kept me motivated.
Building a Career at Seay, Seay & Litchfield Architects
Q: you’re now working at SS&L as an architect and project manager. What has that experience been like?
Drew Haley Smith: It’s been amazing. SS&L is such a collaborative environment, and I’ve learned so much from my colleagues. Jimmy Seay Jr., the senior principal, has been incredibly supportive sence I interned there during my freshman year. I’m currently working on a mixed-use advancement project, which is both challenging and rewarding.
Q: What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the architecture field?
drew Haley Smith: Don’t be afraid to take risks and advocate for yourself. Architecture is a male-dominated field, but that’s changing. Find mentors who believe in your potential, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or opportunities. most importantly, stay true to your vision and passion.
The Future of Architecture and Design
Q: As someone who’s breaking barriers, how do you see the future of architecture evolving, especially for women?
Drew Haley Smith: I think we’re on the brink of a transformative era.More women are entering the field, and their perspectives are reshaping how we design spaces. Sustainability and inclusivity are becoming central to architectural practice, and I’m excited to be part of that movement. My hope is that my story inspires others to pursue their dreams, no matter how enterprising they seem.
Q: what’s one question you wish people would ask you about your journey?
drew haley Smith: That’s a great question! I wish people would ask, “What’s the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned so far?” For me, it’s been realizing that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to keep learning. Every challenge has taught me something valuable.
Join the Conversation
What do you think the future holds for young architects like drew? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s celebrate the next generation of design professionals!
For more insights into the architectural licensure process, check out our Archinect in Depth: Licensure series.
