At GEC Architecture, we believe in nurturing talent and celebrating the exceptional contributions of our team. Today, we are thrilled to announce the appointment of two outstanding professionals, Ellen Penner and Tia Watson, as Associates. Ellen and Tia have exemplified a dedication to innovative design and meaningful collaboration, leaving an indelible mark on our projects and clients.
Ellen Penner: Designing with Empathy
B.E.D.S, M.ARCH, INTERN ARCHITECT, AAA, ENV SP
Ellen brings a fresh perspective and an unwavering passion for creating spaces that enrich daily life. Since joining GEC in 2020, her thoughtful approach has shaped some of Alberta’s most important transit and community projects, including the Capital Line South Extension in Edmonton and the Lethbridge Airport Renovations and Addition. What inspires Ellen most is the people who use the spaces she designs. “I find inspiration in the people who use the spaces I design. Understanding their stories and their routines motivates me to strive to create environments that are functional, comfortable, and memorable. It’s about ensuring that our built environments seamlessly integrate function with user experience,” Ellen shares. Her ability to balance form and function with intentionality has positioned her as a key leader in creating environments that resonate on a personal level
Tia Watson: Innovating at the Intersection of Creativity and Functionality
B.ENV.D., BSC., M.ARCH., ARCHITECT, AAA
Since joining GEC in 2020, Tia has consistently demonstrated her expertise in delivering innovative, people-centred solutions. Her recent work includes the Campus Centre Redevelopment at SAIT, the YYC Domestic Terminal Building Retail Projects, and GEC’s own Calgary Studio renovation, showcasing her ability to transform complex challenges into purposeful and elegant designs.
Tia finds inspiration in the process of problem-solving and the creative possibilities it unlocks. “For me, inspiration comes from the intersection of problem-solving and creativity. I love the challenge of transforming complex requirements and user needs into elegant, functional spaces that make life better for the people who experience them. It’s about finding beauty in the balance between practicality and possibility,” she says. Her thoughtful approach to blending practicality with possibility has made her a standout force in architectural design.
Looking Ahead
Ellen and Tia embody GEC’s core values—we are passionate about architecture, people are our priority, working together is our process, and curiosity and grit. As they step into their new roles as Associates, we look forward to seeing how their unique perspectives and talents will continue to shape the future of our practice and the communities we serve.
Congratulations to Ellen and Tia on this well-deserved recognition of your leadership and talent!
