Randy Howder

Describe the work you do. What are some of your recent and current projects that excite you? What inspires you about the future of your chosen field?
I oversee one of Gensler’s ten global regions, spanning from the San Francisco Bay Area to the Pacific Northwest. This means I lead strategic business planning in partnership with our Office Directors to grow our revenue, our team, and to deliver world-class design work across dozens of practice areas.

The diversity of our practice, from commercial interiors to some of the most high-profile buildings in our markets, means that each day brings new opportunities. Gensler’s scale and global reach means I get to regularly work with some of the world’s most innovative companies as they navigate an increasingly complex world, I’m excited by the truly meaningful role design can play in solving some of these enormous changes.

Why did you choose Taubman College for your education?
I chose Taubman College because of its connection to one of the world’s leading universities and its legacy of design education that seeks to address the challenges of a changing, diverse world. At the same time, the College has a background of midwestern practicality that underpins a rigorous architectural education.

How did Taubman College prepare you for your career? What experiences beyond the classroom (internships, research assistantships, teaching opportunities, or other external experiences) provided additional value?
I felt very well prepared for a career in architecture due to the College’s focus on both design excellence and skills development. The studio culture translated very well into professional studio life and the opportunities for cultural enrichment, from guest lecturers to summer study abroad studios had a strong influence on the professional I became.

How has being part of the alumni community impacted you, personally and professionally?
I made lifelong friends during my time at the College and it has been rewarding to help our alumni community remain strong. Not only have I been able to regularly see many of those lifelong friends by getting involved in the community, but I have been able to develop important relationships with alumni from many other classes. And many of these connections have led to rewarding professional collaborations.

What did you like best about attending Taubman College?
I learned so much not only about architecture and design, but about life and about the world during my time at Taubman College. The exposure to different points of view, to new places in the world, and to people who would become some of my most important friends truly shaped who I became, both personally and professionally.

What advice or important lesson would you share with someone considering Taubman College?
Most architecture schools, including Taubman College, can boast of big-name faculty and visiting professors. But look behind those names to understand the mission of the institution, the pedagogy, the resources, and the culture. Taubman College has an outstanding platform from which to launch your career in architecture and beyond.

Other thoughts, advice, or knowledge you would like to share?
Take a look at the breadth of resources at the College and at the broader university. Being part of both something intimate and inspirational as the College and as powerful and diverse as the University of Michigan is an unparalleled experience that allows you to chart a course that is truly unique to you.