What’s the most unusual job you’ve ever had?

“I once spent a summer responsible for eight 4-year-olds. It was equal parts chaos and joy—and a great lesson in patience, creativity, and crisis management!”

Kiera Vandyke

Architectural Designer

WORK: 
Kiera brings a collaborative, hands-on approach, informed by her interdisciplinary background in architecture and public affairs. She was drawn to this role for its strong focus on community impact and resilient, people-centered solutions—an extension of her personal philosophy to “do good work with good people.” Through her work with Virginia Tech’s Appalachian Futures Lab and the Community Design Assistance Center (CDAC), she contributed to regionally responsive, environmentally conscious projects that deepened her passion for design rooted in place. At IDG, Kiera continues to approach each project with thoughtfulness and care, valuing teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication. She thrives in collaborative environments and stays productive by breaking down complex tasks into manageable pieces, often using visual tools and sketching to stay grounded and focused.

PLAY:
Outside of work, Kiera finds joy in simple, meaningful moments—spending time at home with her partner and their three cats, diving into a good book, solving puzzles, or experimenting with a new recipe. A self-proclaimed cat person, foodie, and book junkie, she loves exploring Roanoke’s ever-evolving food scene and discovering new creative indoor hobbies. Whether it’s renovating her first home or painting in her spare time.

GROW:
For Kiera, growth is about staying curious, intentional, and open to new ways of thinking. She is currently in the early stages of preparing for architectural licensure, gaining valuable experience under the guidance of mentors at IDG. Her dual degrees—one in Architecture and another in Public and Urban Affairs with a concentration in Smart and Sustainable Cities—equip her with a unique, systems-oriented approach to human-centered design. As she continues to develop professionally, she remains committed to creating spaces that are responsive to both people and evolution.