KELLY Clarke
Company: Centerline Architects
Title: Architect
Age: 31
Career Highlights: I am very proud of passing my exams and becoming a registered architect. That involved a year of studying nearly every day and taking six exams. It was very hard work and it was very worth it. 
Each project that is completed is a proud moment for me. Camp Becket and St Anthony Hall are a couple of favorites. Every building or renovation has the opportunity to impact someone - by bringing people together, by bringing comfort, by making a person more efficient and effective at their job.
Community Involvement: I love to volunteer for organizations that make my community a better place. Often that means helping with a small design or construction project. Sometimes it just means showing up and helping out. I'm proud to be on the Advisory Board for Shires Young Professionals and a Team Captain for the Bennington Chamber of Commerce.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont? Moving to Vermont wasn't a purposeful decision. I moved here for work, but I stayed for the high quality of life.
Favorite part of your job? My favorite part of the job is meeting clients for the first time, hearing what they are hoping for, and turning that into the first few design sketches. That phase is so full of possibilities and people are always excited to see what you have come up with.
Most inspiring mentor and why: My boss Gary Corey for his design knowledge, patience, perseverance, and ability to connect with anyone.
What is the best career advice you have received? Stop thinking about your answer and really listen to the question.
What three words best describe you? Detail-oriented. Analytical. Hardworking.
Favorite Vermont escape: Driving through the countryside and visiting small towns to discover new shops and restaurants.
Favorite downtime activity: Walking around town to look at everything or sitting by the fire watching a movie, depending on the season.
If you had unlimited access to funds which cause(s) would you support: Revitalizing historic downtowns and animal welfare.
