Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at VDT
We believe that successful design draws from a variety of unique and diverse voices.
Design should be shaped by those that represent the diversity of the communities being served to build truly inclusive environments. We continue to build partnerships with local and equitable design teams, mentor a diverse group of young professionals in the field, and champion sustainability as a means to advocate for change within our community.
Our Work in Action
ACE Mentorship Program
VDT has had an active partnership with the ACE Mentor Chicago for almost a decade. ACE Mentor Chicago is dedicated to increasing opportunity and diversity in our professions, with a majority of our students self-identified as minorities. VDT continues to be committed to ACE past the program itself through board representation, offering many ACE alumni internships, and contributes towards multiple scholarships as a result of their participation in the program. We love helping mentor, train, and recruit the next generation of architects, contractors, and engineers.
Education
VDT conducts annual firm wide events with both internal and external speakers on various topics related to both DE&I and current events. VDT has taken a committed stand to continue educating ourselves about the diversity of race, gender ability, sexual orientation, religion and more in an effort to embrace and celebrate the identities of our staff and the communities we’re a part of.
Internal Staff Engagement
VDT has been running Gallup surveys and regularly engages staff internally to allow employees at all levels to advocate for themselves and be part of organizational change. The firm has established a baseline for creating transparent and equitable performance reviews, validating compensation standards for employees to ensure there are no disparities in career advancement and continues to refine these practices over time.
Service/Outreach
VDT provides staff with dedicated volunteer hours to use at their discretion, empowering them to support causes they’re personally passionate about. We also coordinate company-wide volunteer opportunities for our firm to come together and make a positive impact beyond our professional work.
Professional Organizations
VDT actively encourages staff participation in professional organizations supporting minority groups in architecture. We seek opportunities to present at conferences, showcasing projects that exemplify our commitment to community engagement and inclusive design. Through these efforts, we strive to contribute to a more diverse and equitable future for our profession.
Project Work
Our commitment to creating inclusive spaces is reflected in our thoughtful approach to accessibility and user experience. We prioritize universal design to ensure spaces are accessible for all users, including those with mobility aids. Our projects often feature gender neutral bathrooms, inclusive signage, mother’s rooms and flexible workspaces that cater to a variety of working needs and styles.
Our Work Isn’t Done
We understand the historical and systemic implications that have led to the lack of diversity within the field of architecture and we see fostering relationships as a step forward to increasing and facilitating diversity within the field.
VDT is committed to continue to learn, rectify, and improve our firm, and advocate for change within our community.
Here are Our Next Steps:
Elevating the importance of DEI work by setting aside time for DE&I advancement and initiatives
Building a culture of service by encouraging staff to actively participate with local professional organizations (AIA, IIDA, NOMA, ACE, Arquitina, Arquitectos, CREW, Professional Women in Construction, etc.)
Creating intentional and authentic representation in project documentation
Conduct reporting on current DE&I metrics, and steps to improve diversity in all levels of the studio and leadership team
Continuing to form partnerships with emerging, minority-owned talent within our industry