A third-generation architect licensed in Germany as well as the U.S., Bettina Mehnert brings both creativity and a background in IT and business to the 70-year-old design company AHL (Architects Hawaii Limited). Mehnert has been instrumental in perpetuating the firm’s commitment to understanding and honoring the interrelationships between our environment, economy, culture, history and communities. More than half of AHL’s staff have LEED certifications, and the firm offers continuing education within the company in addition to encouraging—and often funding—education in other arenas. AHL also provides architectural and planning services to select nonprofit organizations through its 1 percent pro bono program. The firm’s most recent 1 percent pro bono project, a therapeutic campus for girls who have been sexually exploited, will benefit the nonprofit Ho’ola Na Pua.
On killing it in the design industry:
As in any field, industry knowledge is vital. I stay current and challenged through colleagues, reading, client demands and organizations such as the Urban Land Institute and AIA. Additionally, knowledge of finance, genuine interest in the people you work with and the desire to see them grow and succeed are all characteristics of an effective leader in my field.
Most valuable lesson she’s learned:
“If it is truly important, you will find a way.” My mom gave me this advice in high school. It still serves as a reminder to always be fully committed to everything I do.
Most difficult lesson she’s learned:
I love my family but I’m also passionate about what I do. There was a time when I struggled finding the balance—until I realized that there will never be [a perfect balance]. The secret is making every second count, no matter where it is.
Describe yourself in three words:
Empathetic, adventurous, tall
An accomplishment that isn’t on her CV:
People say that children are the product of their environment. If that’s true, then raising my daughter has been my greatest achievement.
Do you think women lead differently than men?
I think leaders, independent of gender, adapt to their environments and lead in the way that encourages people they work with to succeed, share in the work of the organization and work together to build a future. We need to encourage leadership skills within all our staff. We need each individual to step up and challenge the status quo and each other.
