Norma Merrick Sklarek: A Pioneering Force in the Construction Industry
Norma Merrick Sklarek was a woman ahead of her time, shattering glass ceilings and leaving a lasting imprint on the construction industry. As the first African American woman to become a licensed architect in the United States, Sklarek’s influence and dedication to the profession paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in architecture and construction.
Her Journey and Starting Point
Sklarek’s journey into the construction world began with a determination to break through barriers. Born in 1928, she earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Columbia University in 1950. Although she faced considerable challenges as a woman of color entering a predominantly male and white profession, Sklarek remained undeterred. She worked hard to prove her capabilities, securing a position at a prestigious architectural firm in New York City before moving to California, where she went on to achieve even greater success.
Impact on Women in Construction
Norma Merrick Sklarek’s legacy is rooted in her role as a trailblazer for women in construction. Her pioneering success in an industry that was not welcoming to women of any background broke down significant barriers. She not only proved that women could thrive in architecture and construction, but she also made a lasting impact by mentoring other women and encouraging their participation in the field. She became a role model for countless aspiring architects and construction professionals, helping to shift the industry toward greater diversity and inclusion.
Her work in mentoring and advocating for women, particularly in leadership roles, continues to inspire women who aspire to succeed in a field where their presence was once rare.
Her Groundbreaking Projects
Sklarek’s career spanned several decades, during which she worked on a wide range of significant projects that showcased her brilliance and leadership. Among her most notable projects was her involvement in the design and construction of the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo and the Terminal One at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Both of these projects are monumental achievements, exemplifying her expertise in large-scale design and her ability to navigate complex, high-profile projects.
As a senior project manager at SOM (Skidmore, Owings & Merrill), Sklarek was instrumental in managing the coordination of architectural design and construction teams. Her ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams made her an invaluable asset in every project she touched.
Legacy and Lasting Impact on the Industry
Sklarek’s contributions to the construction industry extend far beyond the projects she worked on. Her legacy continues to ripple through the industry today. She was an advocate for diversity and inclusion, helping to lay the foundation for the growing presence of women and people of color in leadership positions within architecture and construction.
In addition to her advocacy, Sklarek’s pioneering career served as a blueprint for others, showing that breaking down racial and gender barriers in construction was not only possible but also necessary for the industry to evolve and thrive. Today, the construction industry continues to see more women in senior leadership roles and more diverse teams than ever before, a direct result of Sklarek’s influence.
Sklarek’s Influence Today
Though Norma Merrick Sklarek passed away in 2012, her impact on the construction industry is felt daily. Her work has inspired many to push beyond societal norms, redefining the possibilities for women and minorities in the field. Her influence extends to the policies and initiatives championed by industry organizations, many of which focus on providing resources and support to women and minorities pursuing careers in architecture and construction.
Her legacy lives on in the numerous awards and honors she received throughout her career, as well as the ongoing work of those she mentored, who continue to build on the foundation she laid.
To honor Norma Merrick Sklarek’s groundbreaking work and explore the impact of women in the construction industry today, check out our Built to Lead campaign on Instagram (@gwgci). Stay tuned for our post celebrating Sklarek’s legacy and how her pioneering spirit continues to inspire new leaders in construction.
