We’re celebrating some of the women leading the way at KAI, spotlighting the incredible women in senior leadership in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. These trailblazing professionals are not only shaping the built environment but also paving the path for future generations. Stay tuned as we continue to unveil new spotlights, sharing inspiring stories and celebrating their contributions and leadership.
Suzanne LeBeau-Moffitt, NCIDQ, IIDA
Senior Interior Designer Suzanne LeBeau-Moffitt, NCIDQ, IIDA, finds her sweet spot in working with global public and private sector clients. The design challenge, she says, lies in replicating a global program for rollout in the U.S. while successfully accommodating different space and finish standards internationally.
With a design career spanning over 40 years, Suzanne believes the sky’s the limit for any woman wanting to work in the AEC industry today. She notes that women coming out of college now are equipped with much better skill sets and knowledge than in the past.
“There may be challenges, but that is part of business and life; navigate and pursue your dreams. Be willing to take risks when appropriate too,” she advises. “Finding a mentor in the industry is key. Set your goals high, knowing they will always change, and get involved in your community by volunteering for worthy causes that interest you and participating in professional organizations.”
Influenced as a child by the interior designer who assisted her mother in designing the family home, Suzanne graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX, with a major in Interior Design and Art.
Suzanne began her design career in 1981 with HMBH, where she stayed for 10 years and became an associate with the firm. In 1991, she moved to Texas and joined PGAV Destinations as a Senior Interior Designer. Ten years later, she accepted a position as Director of Interiors at Jacobs Engineering and was eventually promoted to Program Manager. After 24 years at Jacobs, she took a short career break before starting to work part-time for KAI in January 2023.
Suzanne chose to work at KAI because of its mission to give back to the community and its diverse portfolio of projects.
“I had the advantage of knowing some of the team members, which made the transition easy. The people here are very friendly and welcoming. I also got some wonderful KAI swag to wear!” she commented. “As with any new position, people need to feel comfortable with their ability and skill set. I truly have not faced any challenges being accepted at KAI.”
An award-winning designer, Suzanne has received an AIA St. Louis Interiors Merit Award and an AIA Lighting Award for Jacob’s Corporate Office in Pasadena, CA, as well as an AIA St. Louis Interiors Merit Award for the Hospitality House at Sea World in Orlando, FL.
Outside of work, Suzanne enjoys traveling with her husband, particularly visiting her daughter and son-in-law in New York. Her hobbies include walking her beloved dog Lilly, visiting national parks, entertaining friends, and volunteering with Perennial, a non-profit organization offering classes on creative ways to reuse salvaged materials.