March 7, 2025

March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women who have paved the way for future generations. At RVK, we take pride in our status as the largest architecture firm in San Antonio certified as a Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE). As a professional design firm specializing in architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where women can lead, innovate, and inspire. Our women leaders not only drive the success of our firm but also serve as mentors and role models, empowering the next generation of professionals in the industry.

To celebrate Women’s History Month, we sat down with Judy Zimmerman – President of RVK, Elizabeth (Liz) Hurd – Architectural Principal of RVK, and Christina Davis – Interior Design Principal of RVK, to discuss the evolving role of women in leadership. Throughout March, we will be sharing insights from this conversation, highlighting not only the importance of women in leadership roles but also the value of mentorship, resilience, and building a supportive network.

Expanding Opportunities for Women

Women’s leadership has come a long way over the years, evolving from a time when professional opportunities for women were severely limited, to an era where women are taking on pivotal roles in various industries. Reflecting on the past, Judy spoke about her mother, who was required to leave her full-time teaching position upon marriage. Such restrictions seem unthinkable today, highlighting how much progress has been made. Opportunities are no longer defined by gender but rather by ambition, perseverance, and capability. As Judy aptly put it, “The opportunities for us have really expanded.”

Liz echoed this sentiment by emphasizing the importance of encouraging young girls to think beyond conventional careers. She recounted her time mentoring Girl Scouts, pushing them to explore unconventional roles such as pilots, architects, and surgeons. “Now, everybody kind of thinks bigger,” she said. The ability to dream beyond traditional roles is a testament to how women’s perspectives on career aspirations have evolved.

Representation and Role Models Matter

A crucial theme that emerged from the conversation was representation. Liz expressed, “When you see people who are like you, it encourages you.” Seeing women in leadership positions fosters belief and ambition in others. It dismantles the notion of certain jobs being inaccessible and creates a ripple effect of inspiration. Without representation, aspiring professionals may struggle to envision themselves in roles where they don’t see someone like them.

This impact is particularly profound when mentorship plays a role. Judy emphasized the misconception that leadership is about being in a position of power and reinforced that it’s truly about presenting valuable, unique perspectives. “Why not have women in leadership roles to bring different perspectives?” she asked. The diversity of thought and experience that women contribute leads to well-rounded decision-making and innovation in any industry.

The Power of a Support Network

Christina highlighted the importance of having a support system, particularly for women navigating both career and motherhood. “The biggest thing that’s helpful… is having someone to lean on who knows what it’s like,” she shared. Women who have experienced the challenges of balancing work and family life can provide guidance, reassurance, and opportunities to others facing similar struggles.

She also noted the significance of networking, where connections formed early in careers grow stronger over time, benefiting not just individuals but entire industries. “As you age with those people, and they all are rising with you… you start to see the network become stronger.”

Leading with Passion and Purpose

For many women, leadership is not about recognition but about making a meaningful impact. Liz, when discussing her recognition from the Luna Board, humbly stated, “I don’t do anything for an award. When you find something you love to do, and you do it well, the awards come with it.” Passion drives success, and that passion often stems from the desire to uplift others.

Her involvement in programs such as ACE (Architecture, Construction, Engineering) Mentorship and NOMA (National Organization of Minority Architects) further reflects her dedication to guiding the next generation. Through these initiatives, she has helped young students, particularly minority students, understand their potential in fields they might not have considered. “All it takes is just that encouragement, just being there for them and opening up to them. That’s kind of like my passion.”

Liz also plays a key role in an annual summer camp held every July, now entering its fifth year. The camp encourages students to engage with their communities by analyzing their neighborhoods and considering improvements. “How can they enhance their neighborhood? What’s missing from your neighborhood? What do you want to add to your neighborhood?” she explained. The most recent camp focused on ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units), and the students’ creativity never ceases to amaze her. “They blow my mind every year, and it’s, like, amazing.”

One particular moment stood out for Liz when a young student, Trini, doubted her ability to succeed in architecture. Liz reassured her: “Look, Trini, look at this. You just did this out of learning from today what architecture is. And look what you did. So imagine if you had a real professor.” With Liz’s encouragement, Trini transferred schools, thanks to a timely call to a connection in the field. “I literally got on the phone and called Dwayne. I said, “I need you to help transfer this student in two weeks,” because school started, like, in two weeks or something. We got it transferred.” Now, Trini has successfully moved from community college to UTSA, where she is completing her architecture degree. Liz shared, “She sent me an email, and literally, that’s the first time I ever cried when somebody said, ‘I would have never done this.'” It is in witnessing someone step into their potential that we find the deepest fulfillment.

Defining Leadership and Legacy

Leadership is often shaped by personal experiences and mentors. For Judy, her father was a role model who demonstrated strength, grace, and the ability to handle difficult situations with integrity. His influence, coupled with the mentorship she received from Ken Rehler (Founder of RVK in 1971) shaped her leadership philosophy: “Do what you do best, find what you give greatest value back to the firm, and then lead with your internal passion and desire to lift everybody up.”

Christina emphasized that leadership is about more than just professional achievements; it’s about bringing heart and community into the workplace. “Judy brought a lot of heart to the firm… about thinking beyond what it is we do at the desk.” This approach fosters a positive and empowering workplace culture.

Balancing Work, Family, and Personal Growth

One key takeaway from the discussion was the necessity of work-life balance. Liz shared a valuable lesson from Mr. Rehler: “You gotta pick a day. You can’t just always work.” She prioritized her children’s milestones, ensuring she never missed their important events. The flexibility to integrate professional ambitions with personal responsibilities is an essential aspect of modern leadership.

Final Words of Advice and Looking Forward

If they could go back in time, each leader had a piece of advice for their younger selves:

• Judy:

  “Don’t take things so personally. Expect challenges and keep that cup filled with whatever means it might take.”

• Christina:

  “Whatever you want is yours.”

• Liz:

  “Don’t let anybody take your joy.”

Their experiences illustrate that leadership is a journey, one that involves resilience, mentorship, and a passion for making a difference. Through their leadership, people can get a glimpse of the values and impact Ken Rehler left behind.

The stories of these women remind us that true progress in women’s leadership goes beyond breaking barriers; it is about creating lasting legacies for future generations by empowering others to recognize their own potential and inspiring them to achieve unimaginable heights.