Jessica Reinert’s 12 years with the Iowa chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA Iowa) has been a path of upward progression. She joined the trade group in 2003 as communications director, and a decade later, she was named executive director. She was the first person to receive the national organization’s Emerging Executive Award. Under her leadership, AIA Iowa recently launched the Iowa Center for Architecture, which showcases the work of member firms in the state offices at Capital Square in Des Moines.

Tell us about the Iowa Center for Architecture.
The Iowa Center for Architecture is a public hub for architecture in the state. AIA Iowa and the Iowa Architectural Foundation provide an abundance of resources through our programs, events and websites. We invite the public to stop by the space and check out our firm member displays. We showcase a different architectural firm and display each month.

You have been at AIA Iowa for 12 years. What changes have occurred in the organization over that time?
The organization as a whole has recognized the need for consistency across programming and the availability of resources to our members. In the past 12 years, we have seen a large increase in programming and services as well as an increase in members. And in the past five years, we have increased our presence on a statewide level bringing services to our members no matter what part of the state they live and work in. 

What are the hot topics in architecture these days?
Sustainability has become the norm, and the concept of “living buildings” is emerging. Many of our firms have taken on the AIA’s 2030 Commitment and are working toward a carbon-neutral built environment. Some buildings’ design concepts incorporate building technology to allow the building to make energy. Collaborative environments are also on the rise. Many Fortune 500 companies are incorporating collaboration-friendly workspaces, giving our architect members an opportunity to implement designs that will last for decades. The integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) into the design and construction process is also gaining speed.

What are your goals for AIA Iowa?
We want to increase our public outreach, support our members and promote great design to the best of our ability. With the increasing popularity of “do-it-yourselfers” and online tutorials, we hear more and more, “I don’t need an architect; I can figure it out myself.” The truth is that an architect’s skills and background make them uniquely suited for the task. 

What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy spending my spare time with my family, biking and other outdoor activities, gardening, attending the boys’ sporting events and volunteering.

You specialize in association management and have received national recognition for your management skills, but are you also a student of design?
I certainly appreciate and recognize the ability of good design to not only transform a space, but the people within the space. While I have not formally studied design, I have an understanding of the process and the great effort that it takes to transform a building into a living community. 

What is  your management philosophy?
My favorite leadership quote is one from Sheryl Sandberg: “Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.”

Given that you see it every day right out your office, what’s your opinion of the Cowles Commons makeover?
After observing its transformation firsthand over the course of construction, the new Cowles Commons is a welcome change. We all enjoy watching kids splash in the Lauridsen Fountain, seeing professionals chatting over lunch, and I am very excited to see the installation of the Jim Campbell sculpture. It will be fun to see how the space is used for public events. The design of this space is inviting to the public, and as the trees grow and there is more shade during the summer, I’m sure more people will take advantage of the space.