Helene is a licensed architect and visionary leader whose career exemplifies a commitment to cultural transformation, leadership development, and the advancement of the architectural profession. A graduate of Virginia Tech’s College of Architecture and Urban Studies, Helene has leveraged her expertise and passion for architecture to impact communities, organizations, and individuals on local, national, and international levels.
Helene’s career spans decades of influential roles in architecture, design, and organizational leadership. As the President of The Three Aspens, Ltd., she currently consults on strategic planning, leadership development, and organizational transformation, focusing on cultural enrichment within design-related firms and nonprofits. Concurrently, through The Plum Studio, Ltd., Helene applies her design acumen to craft curated spaces within Virginia’s Shenandoah and Roanoke Valleys, enriching clients’ daily lives through thoughtful and intentional place-making.
Her tenure as Interim Executive Director of the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) underscores her ability to manage complex transitions and elevate operational standards. Helene’s leadership during this period resulted in organizational enrichment, streamlined governance, and a service-oriented shift in accreditation processes. Similarly, her contributions as Interim Executive Vice President of AIA Virginia saw the organization through a successful rebranding and structural overhaul, fostering a renewed focus on member engagement and financial stability.
Previously, as Managing Director of Component Relations for the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Helene provided strategic oversight to over 280 chapters nationwide. Her initiatives—ranging from the development of mentorship programs to sustainability integration in awards programs—illustrate her holistic approach to advancing the profession. She also served as Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Relationships, leading AIA150, the Institute’s sesquicentennial celebration, which included groundbreaking projects such as the Blueprint for America and America’s Favorite Architecture Exhibit.
Helene’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of architects is evident in her advocacy for mentorship, professional growth, and diversity. Her efforts have earned her numerous honors, including the AIA Virginia’s William C. Noland Medal, the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada’s Presidential Medal, and Fellowship in the American Institute of Architects. Notably, AIA Virginia established a fellowship in her name to honor her enduring impact on the profession.
Helene’s leadership style is characterized by empathy, integrity, and a visionary outlook. She bridges generations, genders, and cultures, championing inclusivity and empowerment. Her ability to act from both the head and the heart has made her a trusted steward of change and an advocate for traditionally underrepresented individuals and groups within the field.
From her early days managing design projects at The Dreiling Partnership Architects, PC, to her groundbreaking initiatives at national organizations, Helene’s career reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence and transformation. Her influence continues to shape the architectural profession, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
- Character: Helene Combs Dreiling embodies integrity, empathy, and a visionary spirit, acting as a champion for inclusivity and cultural transformation.
- Knowledge: A seasoned architect and leader, Helene has deep expertise in organizational change, strategic planning, and fostering professional development in architecture.
- Strategic: Helene excels in driving impactful initiatives, rebranding organizations, and implementing sustainable, member-focused governance structures.
- Communication: A skilled communicator, Helene bridges diverse groups with clarity and inspiration, fostering collaboration and understanding across generations, genders, and cultures.
