International Woman's Day

We want to take a moment to highlight some of the employee owners who shape our practice every day. These ‘spotlights’ form part of our wider celebrations for International Women’s Day — including inspiring talks and events in the office — which have been taking place this month.

Next in the spotlight - Eilish!

Profile

Eilish joined the ab+c team in July 2023 as a Part 1 architectural assistant. She is currently working part-time while studying part-time at Glasgow School of Art to achieve her diploma in architecture.


What advice would you give for woman starting out in their career?

As a mature student it has taken me a long time to realise that it is never too late to change direction in life and make decisions that are right for you. Most importantly, believe in yourself—you are capable, worthy, and deserving of success.


What woman inspire you and have pushed change forward?

Someone who inspires me and has accelerated change is Judith Heumann who was a pioneering disability rights activist. Her relentless advocacy reshaped accessibility and inclusion for disabled people worldwide and as a leader in the disability rights movement, she fought against discrimination, secured key legislative protections, and championed independent living.

She led the 1977 Section 504 sit-in, the longest non-violent occupation of a federal building in U.S. history. This protest led to the enforcement of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the first federal civil rights law protecting disabled people.

Her legacy continues to inspire activists, pushing for accessibility, equal rights, and systemic change across the world.


How has your journey into architecture influenced you?

My journey into architecture hasn’t been traditional, but each step has shaped my interest in the field.

I began working as a chef, later specialising in pastry, before moving to New Zealand to work as an au pair where I cared for a child with multiple disabilities. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for inclusive environments and accessibility.

At 25 I returned home and decided to take the first step in my architectural education and enrol in an Architectural Technology college course. Following college, I attended Strathclyde University to study architecture whilst working part-time as a community care assistant—further reinforcing my passion for people-centred design.

At 30 years old I became a Part 1 Architectural Assistant at ab+c, and I balance work with part-time study at Glasgow School of Art as I continue towards my diploma in architecture. My unconventional path has given me a unique perspective and a keen interest in designing spaces that are not just functional but truly inclusive.


Look out for more on what we’ve been up to next week!

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