Melinda Pogwizd – Kahler Slater

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Melinda Pogwizd comes from a long line of artists, builders and creators.

So when it came time to choose a career, design seemed like a natural fit. Pogwizd is an architect and associate principal at Kahler Slater, where she has worked for over 10 years.

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee graduate is passionate about serving the most vulnerable populations, such as underserved communities, women and children.

“I love … finding unique and palatable ways to infuse wellness into their health care settings. I enjoy people and telling their unique stories in the spaces we design.

Improving the human experience in health care and finding innovative ways to respond to shifting consumer expectations for health care delivery are often the focus of what I do.”

In early 2020, Kahler Slater was designing a critical access hospital for Bryan Health in rural Nebraska when the pandemic hit. The firm’s team shifted to a fully virtual planning process and designed a hospital via Zoom. Pogwizd led 16 user group meetings every other week and delivered a project within budget, despite the rising cost of materials.

“Melinda has adapted to our client’s expectations and deadlines with a rapid-prototype approach that is balanced with experience and poise,” said Dave Sheedy, principal at Kahler Slater. “She thrives in the discovery and dream phases of a project and drives it to completion with her decisiveness and expertise.”

Pogwizd has spoken on several occasions at AIA Conventions about diversity in leadership, work/life balance and building relationships with general contractors. She presented for ACHE Wisconsin in 2020 about the Future of Healthcare, focusing on the consumer experience and improving staff engagement and satisfaction.

Outside of work, she enjoys winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding.

“I love winter more than summer and cross my fingers in the winter months for more snow,” she said. “I also enjoy the Northwoods and escaping the city and cell service.”