Amy Burkett: Denver architect finds fulfillment in Middle East projects.

• Author: Bronikowski, Lynn
• Position: EXECUTIVE edge

FOR AMY BURKETT, PRINCIPAL OF DENVER-based Burkett Design, the chance of a lifetime began with a voice mail from a world away.

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The American University of Afghanistan was awarded 55 million to build the International Center for Afghan Women's Economic Development and in a national search was pursuing Burkett, as a women-owned firm, to do the design.

"There was no doubt in my mind that I had to do it," Burkett said. "To me, it was a dream project--a combination of being in the Middle East; it's architecture; and it's about helping women. You can't have a More powerful project than that."

Although Burkett travels with security, she had no hesitation about visiting Kabul. She's been there six times and will attend the grand opening in December.

As part of her research, Burkett interviewed women students to try to understand their goals and hear their family stories.

"From an oppression standpoint, women weren't allowed to go to school and had to stay covered," Burkett said. "But you walk onto the American University campus, and it's an oasis. There's even a radio station because this project is meant to influence women throughout the country, and one of the best ways to communicate is through radio."

She was heartened to see girls from an orphanage playing soccer together.

"It touched my very soul," Burkett said. "That's the generation that will continue to

Burkett is not new to international projects, having worked in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Australia and Ethiopia. The firm was recently selected to do master planning in Iraq and operates an office in Dubai where Burkett spends 25 percent of her time. She has plans to open two offices in Saudi Arabia.

"Our international work is triggering our growth right now," said Burkett, 52, who employs 25 and plans to hire more. "It's rejuvenating to get new blood and new ideas in here."

A native of Cleveland, Burkett was inspired to pursue a career in architecture at age 7 when she visited the...