Architect Barbie Doll Coming Out This Fall

The latest career move for Barbie is in the field of architecture. Architect Barbie wears a dress with a cityscape print. She has a hardhat on her side and she's carrying her building designs in a pink tube on her back. Architect Barbie will be the 2011 Career of the Year for the popular doll.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) says that 17% of AIA members were women as of November, 2010. Kelly Hayes McAlonie, AIA, LEED AP, an Associate Director of the Capital Planning Group at the University at Buffalo and 2011 President-Elect for AIA New York State, says, "This is a wonderful opportunity for little girls to see how they can influence their environment and dream about becoming an architect and shaping their community. Pop culture influences our career decisions and Barbie, for little girls, is an important influence. The fact that this is occurring on the 125th anniversary of women in architecture makes this event even more special."