CATEGORY
ARCHITECT OF HER OWN SUCCESS
M
andeep Mattu is a role model for anyone looking at a career in architecture.
At 27 years old, the associate and architectural assistant’s career has gone up and up since she graduated with a BSc Interior Architecture and Property Development. She says choosing her journey into architecture has been “simple”, starting with playing with building blocks and Lego, which developed into a passion for buildings, colours, makeup and fashion led to a natural flair for interior design and architecture. Mandeep was impressed with Wolverhampton from day one. Nominated for a Women in Property Award during her first year and receiving the Outstanding Student Award by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, it’s clear that the environment suited her ambitions. After graduation, she quickly found her feet in the industry, supported by colleagues with over 30 years’ experience.
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LIFE MAGAZINE
“The depth of experience I receive is incredible which all leads to my progression in my own career. I’m fortunate to work with Nick Chapman (MCIAT) my mentor for the last six years. Starting off your career as a fresh graduate can be very daunting, going into a new office surrounded with very technical and experienced individuals, especially in a perceived male-dominated industry.
of my comfort zone.” Mandeep is rightfully proud of setting up a company in 2019 with her colleagues, TNM Architecture, which designs intelligent and practical spaces for clients’ needs. She’s acutely aware of her own place as a woman in an industry where women are still underrepresented, and part of her way of contributing to change is to write a blog on the topic.
“I’ve learnt from my mentors that your job title doesn’t define you; it’s your skills and passion for the work which will help you on your career path.”
“It’s a paradox that even in the 21st century, architecture can still be a challenging career path for women, and gender inequality continues to be a cause of concern. I’m lucky – personally I’ve never come across the battle of gender inequality in the workplace. However women still account for barely a fifth of UK architects – and that figure is falling.
“Nick made me feel comfortable and took me under his wing. We spend nearly 38 hours a week with our colleagues, so it’s super important to feel happy and confident in our work environments. Nick’s wealth of experience has been vital to my personal development and significantly broadened my knowledge and technical abilities. He has always pushed me out
“Maybe I’ve been one of the fortunate ones, with male mentors who don’t undermine you. If it wasn’t for the support I’ve received I wouldn’t be pushed to where I am today! Being at the forefront of setting up TNM Architecture with my colleagues has been a massive milestone in my career.
SUMMER 2021
