Name: Mubarak Hauter
Title: Architectural Project Coordinator
Office Location: Nashville, TN
Years at Gresham Smith: 6
Meet Mubarak Hauter, a project coordinator in our Nashville Healthcare studio. Check out the Q&A below to learn how this Yemen native went from working in a 200-square-foot grocery store to designing multi-million-square-foot medical facilities!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Ibb, Yemen, which is in the southeastern part of the country. Just saying that brings back memories.
Where did you go to school?
I am a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee. Go Vols!
What was your first job?
I was a cashier at a small, 200-square-foot grocery store in Yemen that my uncle owned. It wasn’t too difficult for a 10-year-old boy to manage.
What drew you to Gresham Smith?
I was searching for a firm with a highly reputable history in architecture, and one that also had diverse career opportunities that align with my long-term goals. Gresham Smith was a no brainer – I love the diverse work we do and the numerous areas of life we touch. Even though I work in the Healthcare market, I’ve also had the opportunity to work on large commercial developments. That’s the beauty of working for a multi-market firm!
What is your favorite project that you’ve worked on?
I can’t pick just one! My two favorite projects are Fifth + Broadway, located in Nashville, Tennessee, and the Alan B. Miller Medical Center, located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Both of these projects were challenging in many ways and drove me to learn many new skills and traits. It’s also rewarding to know they will serve their respective communities well for decades to come.
What made you choose your profession?
As a kid, I was very passionate about drawing and creating objects. Before television was introduced in our village, I loved making samurai swords and bows and arrows. Unfortunately, drawing and creating wasn’t seen as a career path by most, so it was difficult for me to align myself with a specific profession. It wasn’t until my last year of high school when another uncle (what is it with my uncles?) introduced me to a few architectural projects through an architect that he knew. That was a turning point for me and I knew that I wanted to pursue architecture.
What’s the best advice anyone has ever given you?
One time, when I was struggling to define my career path, I was advised to speak with someone with similar struggles. I was also told to be open to challenges and ask every “stupid” question in the book. Don’t worry, I haven’t asked all the questions yet!
Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled and why?
Finland! I had the opportunity to visit one summer during a school trip with a small group of architectural students and was able to see Finnish Architect Alvar Aalto’s work.
What’s on your bucket list?
I hope to pass all of my ARE exams soon! Afterwards, I’ll treat myself to a luscious chocolate cake.
