Meet the 2026 AIA Pittsburgh Board President!
Name: Rebecca Schwartz
Firm: Michael Baker International
Family: Husband (Mike), Daughter (Sienna), Son (Dean) + Dog (Luna)
Years in practice: 25
Education: The Pennsylvania State University
Your first job: My first architecture job was a summer internship at Desmone. Luke Desmone became one of my earliest mentors and played a major role in my decision to pursue architecture.
Project you’re proudest of: Consolidated Squad Operations, Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar – Collaborating with U.S. Air Force commanders to develop a facility tailored to their operational requirements presented significant challenges, particularly given the complexity of their mission needs. However, the experience proved highly rewarding, as it allowed me to deliver a design that balanced simplicity, functionality, and the expectations of an exceptional clientele.
Favorite tool (can be digital, drafting, physical,…): My coffee mug; only way to start my day!
Favorite Pittsburgh neighborhood to walk through? I love walking through my own neighborhood, Ben Avon. It may sit just beyond the city limits, but it’s rich with historic homes and character.
Architect you’d like to have coffee with: Peter Zumthor, his work is often described as meticulous and timeless, prioritizing how a building feels over how it looks.
What do you like to do when you’re not working? Spend quality time with my family and traveling to explore new destinations.
Best gift to give an architect: Coffee table book
If you hadn’t become an architect, what would you have been? Engineer, it runs in the family; I guess I was the one to break the mold.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where? Siena, Italy; a magical place and a primary reason we named our first born after the little town in Tuscany.
What have you been listening to? I enjoy the Bridgerton soundtracks, calm + soothing after a long day at the office or the latest audio book from my book club.
What is a book that’s stayed with you? The Lord of the Rings, J.R.R. Tolkien
How has your design philosophy changed over time? I wouldn’t say it has changed so much as it has steadily evolved through experience. Over time, I’ve developed a deeper commitment to active, intentional listening. I’ve found that architects deliver their strongest work when they fully grasp their clients’ goals, aspirations, and constraints—and then translate that understanding into design solutions that elevate the original vision.
Advice to young architects: Never hesitate to ask questions—curiosity is fundamental to continual growth. My team of architects at MBI exemplifies this mindset, engaging openlywith one another’s ideas and collaborating to achieve the strongest outcomes. I am grateful for their dedication, and for the colleagues who consistently challenge me to be a better architect.
Architectural quote to practice by: “I think you never stop learning.” – Norman Foster
What excites you most about serving as AIA Pittsburgh President? Engaging with fellow architects across Western Pennsylvania and nationally to strengthen communication with local communities and address common misconceptions about the role and value of architects.
What makes Pittsburgh’s design community special? Melting pot of architects from around the world working and living in our backyard. Their unique experiences and perspectives lead to thoughtful and unique designs added onto the interesting topography and eclectic environment that Pittsburgh offers and pushes architects to innovate in ways that honor the city’s past while shaping its future.