Architects design exciting federal careers

In the dynamic government environment, architects play a pivotal role in shaping public spaces.

As the Government of Canada's central real property manager, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) is an ideal place for architects to thrive.

Below, 2 of our architects describe their PSPC experiences.

Syenne Holder discovers the many aspects of architecture in the department

A fan of both math and art, Holder realized she could combine her passions by pursuing a career in architecture. While completing her architecture degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, Holder landed several co-op terms at PSPC and accepted a full-time position in 2022.

"I'm now a deputy project manager on a team that delivers an array of construction and rehabilitation projects in the Parliamentary Precinct," she explains. The revitalization of retail spaces owned by the Government of Canada on Sparks Street is one of the most memorable projects Holder has participated in at PSPC. "Meanwhile, in the East Block building, our team is planning the rehabilitation of former offices for use by Senate staff. I've also worked on the flooring at a federal food production facility and, as a co-op student, I was involved in a landscaping design effort for the Parliament Hill escarpment."

According to Holder, the scope of her responsibilities is appealingly broad. "I have input into design documents that I review, so I'm able to dive into the creative aspect of the profession. In addition, our team engages and oversees the work of other experts and construction contractors." She has realized that she enjoys the project management side of architecture the most. "I like seeing the development of a project from start to finish and addressing the types of challenges that come up in the delivery phase."

The people and culture at PSPC have contributed to Holder's engagement and personal growth. "I've had incredible mentors here," she notes, "and the environment is one where I feel comfortable and encouraged to excel and propose new ideas, so I find meaning in my work." It's an inspiring setting in other ways. "There are a lot of women on technical teams like mine and tremendous diversity in the organization. All of that, together with the nature of my role, has really helped me become a leader."

Both the size of the department and the breadth of its real estate portfolio result in limitless opportunities to gain knowledge and skills, Holder points out. "We have an unparalleled mix of teams, disciplines and facilities represented here. That's critical for me, because I'm eager to learn and explore new arenas. At the same time, I appreciate the work-life balance PSPC offers. I definitely recommend it."

Christopher Hoyt finds new challenges mid-career

In high school, Hoyt wasn't sure about his career path until he began an internship with an architectural firm. "It made me realize I could combine my love for creative and technical work in this profession," he explains. He went on to study industrial design at the University of Alberta and architecture in the United States.

The first 15 years of his career were spent working for high-profile private-sector firms and, later, with the National Capital Commission, before he joined PSPC in 2019. He and his Ottawa-based PSPC team under Architecture and Engineering Services participate in a range of projects, "almost anything in the national capital with a crane on it," he jokes.

That's because they provide critical support and guidance to their colleagues in project management. "Our main role is to advise on different aspects of the project," he notes. "That starts with high-level design advice and reviewing design documents, as well as helping to clarify the vision and objectives underlying the project. In our capacity as coordinators of project advice, we engage our expert colleagues to weigh in on Government of Canada priorities, such as accessibility, greening and heritage conservation. We participate in consultations with tenants and stakeholders and bring their requirements to the table. And, of course, we ensure the approach offers value for taxpayers."

The work is more interesting than Hoyt imagined, coming from the private sector. "We're involved in some of the biggest projects in the region, with complex issues and goals. The experts we work with are the best in the country. It's a very privileged position," he says. For example, one project on his docket is revitalizing an urban area near Parliament Hill. "We're actually renewing an entire city block in Canada's capital."

In addition to the engaging work, Hoyt points out that he values the people management principles at PSPC. "There's a focus on ensuring people are fulfilled and challenged. We have a lot of flexibility because we're such a large organization. With so many options and a culture that emphasizes trying new fields and projects, it's easy to find your niche and pursue your interests." For all these reasons, coupled with his work-life balance, he believes architects should consider PSPC positions.

To learn more about the people, projects and services at PSPC, read other articles about us on Our stories. Meet an architect and project manager at PSPC and find out what she considers the most rewarding aspect of her job: Video: Become an architect at Public Services and Procurement Canada.