Leadership in the design industry is not just about titles, portfolios, or years of experience. It is about responsibility. Responsibility to our clients, to our teams, and to the future of the profession itself. As our industry continues to evolve, so does our understanding of what strong leadership and meaningful representation truly look like. At MSA Design, leadership is rooted in people. The way we show up, the values we bring to the table, and the environments we create matter just as much as the spaces we design.

Leadership Is Built on Trust

Being a leader in this industry often comes down to one core principle, justification. We are constantly asked to demonstrate value in every encounter, whether that is with a client, a prospective partner, or the colleagues we collaborate with each day. That justification of value is not transactional. It is relational.

Trust is built when people understand not just what you do, but why you do it. “People don’t buy what you do but why you do it.” When leaders operate with clarity of purpose, they create space for stronger relationships, better collaboration, and more inclusive outcomes.

Authenticity as a Leadership Practice

One of the greatest challenges in leadership, especially early in a career, is learning how to remain authentic. The pressure to conform, perform, or fit a certain mold can be strong. But true leadership does not come from imitation.

When you are true to yourself, you gain a deeper understanding of your own value. That self-awareness makes it easier to recognize and appreciate the value others bring to the table. Authenticity allows leaders to create environments where people feel seen, respected, and empowered to contribute fully. Remaining authentic takes practice. It requires reflection and intention. But it is also the foundation for finding joy and purpose in the work we do.

Advice Worth Repeating

If there is one message I would share with my younger self, it is this, keep life simple. Do not overthink. Do not over talk to yourself.

We spend more time in conversation with ourselves than with anyone else. The narratives we create internally shape our confidence, our decisions, and our ability to lead. Keeping things simple and being mindful of that inner dialogue creates clarity, resilience, and focus.

The Power of Your Orbit

Inspiration does not always come from far away. Often, it is closest to home.

The people in my orbit inspire me the most. That inspiration starts with my family and extends to the people I work with every day. There is truth in the phrase, “You are who you hang with.” The energy, values, and perspectives of those around us shape how we lead and how we show up.

Inspired people inspire others. When leaders are intentional about who they surround themselves with, they cultivate cultures that encourage growth, curiosity, and inclusion. That is where representation begins to take root.

Learning as a Leadership Commitment

Leadership is not static. It requires continual learning, reflection, and growth. Recent reads that have reinforced these principles include Wisdom Takes Work by Ryan Holiday, Crucial Conversations by Joseph Grenny and Kerry Patterson, How to Know a Person by David Brooks, and Begin Again by Eddie S. Glaude Jr.

Each of these works highlights the importance of self-awareness, communication, empathy, and renewal. Together, they serve as reminders that strong leadership is built intentionally over time.

Building What Comes Next

Representation in design is about more than who is in the room. It is about whose voices are valued, whose perspectives are heard, and how leaders create pathways for others to grow.

As leaders, we have the opportunity to shape cultures that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. When we lead with authenticity, surround ourselves with inspired people, and remain committed to learning, we build more than projects. We build trust, opportunity, and a stronger future.

A Moment of Recognition

Steve Langenkamp’s leadership and commitment to representation extend beyond MSA Design and into the broader Cincinnati community. This year, he will be honored at the Cincinnati Regional Chamber Legacy Dinner as a We Are Making Black History honoree. The recognition celebrates leaders who are driving meaningful change, fostering inclusion, and shaping a more equitable future across industries.