Having achieved great career succeess following her studies at Tsinghua University in China and at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York - Lanmei had always sought something more from her career.
"For 20 years I practiced architecture in the United States, tracing on paper the clean, slick building designs I have always loved. But I wanted more," she explains.
Seeking new challenges and greater career satisfaction, Lanmei knew she wouldn't be satisfied doing the same thing forever and so decided to make a change which led to her returning to China and joining AECOM in 2011 as a vice president and design principal.
"It was a rewarding opportunity to discover a whole new world outside the realm of tracing paper," she adds. "With my AECOM teams in China, I can design 20 buildings in a year. I have worked hard to build trust with my team members and my clients. My team works together closely, appreciating each other’s efforts, and clients trust my advice,"
A career with new challenges
Lanmei's decision to move was not only career-based, but one which she considered imperative for her growth as an individual.
"My decision to move was also the right one for me on a personal level. Before, I was practicing architecture and won major awards, but now, I practice business, which takes a broader scope beyond the drawing table. My focus has shifted from a purely artistic pursuit to also creating value for clients," she adds.
Collaborative teams
Working for a business that is so committed to collaboration, Lanmei has learnt that every single employee has a crucial part in achieving sucess.
"In the last few years, I have seen the true value of AECOM as a fully integrated service provider, and how each employee plays an important role. I feel that I am truly a part of this “family."
Discover a world of opportunities
Read about further women from AECOM, and their work and views.
You can join these talented women at AECOM via exciting careers available across Europe, the Middle East, India and Africa.
Find out more
Disclosure: Where Women Work researches and publishes insightful evidence about how its paid member organizations support women's equality.