Women in Architecture SLC (WIA SLC) was organized in 2012. The goal of the organization is gender parity in the professional field of architecture, and seeks to achieve that goal through community, mentorship and advocacy.
Studies show that architecture is a profession that struggles to retain women. Although nationally women graduating with professional degrees in architecture make up nearly 50% of the graduating class, less than 20% go on to get licensed. Women in roles of leadership within a firm are less than 8% nationally. Unfortunately these are national statistics, and the percentages in our local community in Utah are even lower than that.
WIA SLC supports the local community of women architects in a number of different ways, such as holding community events, sponsoring licensing exams for women architectural interns, providing mentoring opportunities and by sponsoring design competitions that benefit the community
2026 WIA Board - Rachel Sittler, Celestia Carson, Amy Tetreault-Nelson, & Rosemary Stum
Find out a little more about us as board members below!
Celestia Carson, AIA, LEED AP - Principal, VCBO Architecture
When I was ten years old my family moved to Germany, where we lived until I graduated high school and moved back to Utah. It was there that I first discovered my love of buildings and design.
As an architect that focuses on educational facilities, it is especially rewarding to design buildings that excite students to learn and enhance their educational experience.
One of the most rewarding projects I’ve been involved in (aside from WIA of course) was to design the “Wish Room” at the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Together with my then co-worker Pierre Langue, we submitted the design as an artist competition and we were so thrilled to win. I feel so fortunate to have been involved in creating such a special experience for Make-a-Wish children and their families to help them cope with such a difficult time.
Running is my favorite way to decompress. (I must need a lot of stress mitigation as I’ve run twelve marathons.)
Rachel Sittler, AIA, NCARB - Architect, Architectural Nexus
I was born in China and moved to Utah when I was six months old, and have called the Salt Lake Valley home ever since. I received my bachelor’s degree in architecture and urban ecology from the University of Utah, where I also went on to receive my Master of Architecture degree in 2020 (GO UTAH). One of my most memorable experiences was participating in the Design Build Bluff program where I was one of five in an all-women’s team – a first for the program. It was a tough semester, but I am proud of myself and the team for everything we were able to accomplish.
Since 2017, I have been working at Architectural Nexus and have recently completed my architecture licensure in the spring of 2023. I have had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of project types and enjoy being thrown into challenging situations where I can collaborate, develop creative solutions, and establish meaningful designs. I am invested in creating beautiful, usable, and inclusive designs for the communities they serve.
As much as I am able, I love to get out of Salt Lake and see other parts of the world. I love travelling and the challenge of figuring out how to navigate a new city. My favorite destinations have been Barcelona, Tokyo, and the island of Bonaire. I would love to be able to get back and see China – potentially next on my bucket list. When in Salt Lake, I can frequently be found exploring the local restaurant scene trying to find the best burger.
Amy Tetreault-Nelson AIA - Architect, GSBS Architects
Originally from Boise, Idaho, I moved to Salt Lake City in 2015 to attend the University of Utah. Like many transplants, I quickly found a sense of belonging in Utah and have called it home ever since. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies in 2019 and my Master of Architecture in 2021, both from the University of Utah. My career with GSBS began in 2018 as a student intern, where I later joined the team full-time after graduation. With the support of mentors and colleagues, I earned my architectural license in 2023.
Throughout my education and career, I have been drawn to the relationship between people, place, and community. My involvement in student organizations at the University of Utah reinforced the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, represented, and connected. That experience continues to influence my interest in universal design and my work on public and higher education projects. I also have a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the role architecture plays in connecting people to the natural environment. This passion led me to resort and hospitality design, where I enjoy navigating the unique challenges of creating memorable experiences in complex mountain settings.
Outside of architecture, I am usually seeking out my next experience. Whether attending concerts, trying new local restaurants with my husband, hosting game nights, or planning budget-friendly travels, I enjoy finding ways to connect with people and places. (And yes, I stand by my claim that the McDonald's in Bruges, Belgium, is worth a visit.) When I'm not out exploring, you'll find me at home with my two golden retrievers and a good book. My personal reading record is 76 books in a single year.
Rosemary Stum AIA - Architect, Lloyd Architects
Bio to come!