Young Cedar Rapids architect receives national recognition

CEDAR RAPIDS -- Katie Harms, an architect with OPN Architects in Cedar Rapids, has been named a recipient of the American Institute of Architects 2012 AIA Young Architects Award.

Harms, who joined OPN after graduating in 2003 from Iowa State University with a bachelor of architecture degree, is the first woman and only the third Iowan to receive the award since the program began in 1993. The award recognizes individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the profession early in their careers.

Harms will receive the award at the AIA National Convention and Design Exposition in Washington, D.C.

Early in her career, Harms won distinction as a professional leader on a regional and national scale. In 2008 she served as the AIA Central States Region Associate Director. In that position, she founded the CSR Emerging Professionals committee and established the CSR Emerging Professional Summit.

The summit, which has been held annually, is a forum for associate architects, students and professionals to learn and discuss topics of importance such as an intern development program and the architect registration examination.

While at OPN, Harms has focused on client relations and project management, working on projects ranging from federal courthouses and city event centers to corporate and educational assignments. She has contributed to the success of projects ranging in value from $600,000 to $180 million.

Harms is actively involved in the Corridor, serving as a leader and member of various groups including ImpactCR, Junior League of Cedar Rapids and the Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity. She regularly provides students in the College Community School District with the opportunity to job shadow and learn about the design profession.