WIA Leadership Spotlight – Cary Brown

With extensive experience as a technology executive and chief enterprise architect, Cary Brown has driven transformative digital initiatives across healthcare and pharmaceuticals, consistently aligning technology strategies with business objectives.

His expertise lies in architecting innovative, scalable solutions that enhance operational efficiency, improve patient care, and drive organizational growth.

Brown specializes in leveraging emerging technologies—such as AI, machine learning, and blockchain—to position organizations at the forefront of the digital revolution. By addressing industry-specific challenges, including regulatory requirements, interoperability, and data privacy, he designs secure, agile systems that foster both innovation and compliance.

However, even with all those qualifications, its his involvement on the Board of Directors for Women in Architecture that enticed is to reach out to him for this exclusive interview.

Question: What inspired you to become a part of WIA’s leadership?

Answer: I joined WIA’s leadership because I saw a gap in architecture that urgently needed addressing. The industry lacked spaces that celebrated and supported women, and I felt compelled to help change that. Being part of WIA’s founding team gave me the opportunity to build a community where women could connect, share insights, and advocate for each other. It was—and still is—a chance to contribute to something meaningful and lasting, addressing not just the immediate needs but also the future of women in architecture. The journey has been deeply fulfilling, and I’m inspired every day by the talent, passion, and resilience within our community.cary

Q: What does WIA’s vision mean to you personally?

A: To me, WIA’s vision represents a commitment to elevating voices that have historically been underrepresented in architecture. It’s about creating spaces where women feel valued, supported, and empowered to excel in their careers and make lasting impacts. Personally, this vision aligns with my belief that diversity and inclusion aren’t just ideals but are essential to innovation and growth. Seeing WIA’s vision come to life reaffirms my dedication to a more equitable field and inspires me to keep pushing boundaries for what women can achieve in architecture.

Q: How do you see your role contributing to the future of women in architecture?

In my role, I strive to be an advocate, a mentor, and a connector within our community. Over the years, I’ve gained insight from speaking with many women who are excited to pursue careers in architecture but feel uncertain about their qualifications or unsure about the path they need to take. My hope is that, through WIA, we can reduce this hesitation and encourage these women to recognize the strengths and creative thinking they already possess—qualities that are invaluable in architecture and can lead to new and diverse opportunities. I also know I’m not the only male advocate supporting WIA’s mission. Several chief architects from various industries have shown a desire to support similar goals, offering their mentorship and guidance. Together, as allies, we aim to foster a culture of mentorship and inclusion that supports women at every stage of their careers.