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They will explore how technology, cultural shifts, and emerging best practices are prompting firm owners to assess their business models and make adjustments in their studios. Each episode features an industry leader, and together our hosts will explore the new frontier of architectural practice.
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Submit ReviewEpisode 150: Women Defining AI for Architects
How can we bridge the gender technology gap and ensure ethical development of AI while empowering women and non-binary individuals in STEAM fields?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn welcomes Helen Lee Kupp and Nichole Sterling, the co-founders of the Women Defining AI community, to the show. Helen and Nichole are dedicated to bridging the gender technology gap and advocating for ethical AI development by merging their tech expertise. They are on a mission to empower women and reshape the narrative around AI to promote an inclusive technological future.
First, we dive into the beginning of Women Defining AI, which sprouted from their shared passion for accessible AI knowledge. They highlight how their work extends beyond online platforms through a successful in-person event emphasizing the importance of fostering community. Helen and Nichole explore the gender tech gap, especially in STEAM industries, and why women need to be involved in the development of AI. They discuss the importance of understanding the language of AI for the workplace and in daily life and experimenting with its applications.
Then, they share tips for optimizing AI models, like asking follow-up questions and training them to perform exactly how you want. They also touch on data privacy concerns behind AI, regulatory protocols, the emergence of new job roles in the future of the AI era, and how to leverage human jobs with AI jobs.
It's important that women stay close to AI. When following the developments, we're starting to see different behaviors from workplaces. More workplaces are looking for AI fluency and AI skills. So, there's already a gender gap, right? Just from a STEM perspective. But if now workforces are and workplaces are looking for AI fluency and their skill sets, women are just going to continue to fall behind. - Nichole Sterling
To wrap up the conversation, Helen and Nichole share their perspective on the often hostile mindset architects have surrounding AI and the undeniable fundamental changes AI has on the industry paradigm. They also emphasize the importance of learning and absorbing the model despite initial resistance.
Tune in next week for a special panel discussion on the Built Environment Futures Council and the integration of artificial intelligence into architecture and construction.
Guests:
Helen Lee Kupp
Helen Lee Kupp is the co-founder and creator of Women Defining AI, a community of female leaders tackling the biggest topics of understanding today’s generative AI widespread adoption through experimentation, support, and community learning. She takes a practical approach towards helping leaders navigate the biggest changes in work — both from AI/technology, and the flexible/hybrid work revolution. She is the co-author of WSJ Bestselling book “How The Future Works: Leading Flexible Teams to Do the Best Work of Their Lives”. She believes in closing the gender technology gap - starting with women at work - to create a future of work that looks and feels fundamentally different for her two kids and the women she mentors. We can & should do better.
Nichole Sterling
Nichole Sterling, co-founder of Women Defining AI, has always been a utility leader blending strategy, marketing, HR, and finance in tech industries. Her impact on company success ranges from returning $4M YOY to field operations teams through corporate learning initiatives, increasing sales pipeline activities by 10 - 30x by establishing a RevOps philosophy, and even driving innovation within local municipal government. Nichole's current focus is on developing AI technologies, leading a stealth company specializing in digital twins and AI agents. A fervent advocate for women in tech, Nichole combines her passion for AI with a commitment to ethical and inclusive technology. Beyond her professional pursuits, Nichole loves growing her vertical gardens, avoiding the moose in her backyard, and hanging out with her three boys and husband.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Helen on LinkedIn
Connect with Nichole on LinkedIn
📚Continue Learning:
Women Defining AI community perspective papers
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Episode 149: Using Data to Create a Better Employee Experience
How can organizations use data to enhance the employee experience and drive positive cultural change within their workplace?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Dr. Serena Huang, a data analytics executive in Fintech, joins us to discuss how organizations can optimize the employee experience by leveraging data and communication strategies in the workplace. As a data analytics executive, Dr. Huang is passionate about leading change, building high-performance teams, and helping business leaders see data as an asset in large organizations.
First, Dr. Huang defines the employee experience as various aspects of work, from physical environments to manager interactions and digital work capabilities. She emphasizes the importance of measuring employee experience beyond physical space and attendance and suggests surveys and feedback tools to gauge workplace culture and gather recommendations.
Then, we explore the challenges and apprehensions that can arise when introducing survey data to the workplace, including concerns about legal action and the fear of uncovering uncomfortable truths. For architects, we address the common fear about not being able to afford an immediate solution for desires such as taking time off. Dr. Huang shares advice for effectively communicating with architecture leaders who are reluctant to engage in surveys due to these fears, yet recognize their need for growth. She believes leadership needs timely action, collaborative problem-solving, and transparency to drive change.
It comes down to communication. Fundamentally, as humans, we all need to be heard, whether at home, in a relationship, or at work. For employees to feel heard, instead of ignoring the elephant in the room, why don't we ask about it and then come up with some solutions? It may not be the perfect solution, but I think the leadership team should come from a place of genuine care, communicate that back to the employees and say, "We heard you." - Dr. Serena Huang
To wrap up the conversation, Dr. Huang shares her perspective on employees and leaders navigating their career alongside their mental health management. She advocates for leadership therapy and coaching sessions to enhance self-awareness and emotional well-being.
Tune in next week for an episode about women defining AI for architects.
Guest:
Dr. Serena Huang
Dr. Serena Huang is an accomplished thought leader and professional keynote speaker with 150+ speaking engagements covering topics including people analytics, AI, future of work, personal branding, and data storytelling. She regularly guest-lectures at top MBA programs including Kellogg, Wharton, and Haas. Dr. Huang's unique ability to speak to audiences of different cultures and backgrounds, along with her experience in both F100 and startups make her an in-demand speaker. Her 2024 focus is helping organizations realize the full potential of AI through creating a new workforce strategy and improving internal talent mobility.
Prior to founding Data With Serena, Dr. Huang led sizable analytics teams at prominent organizations including PayPal, Kraft Heinz, GE, and Koch Industries. She pioneered the applications of machine learning algorithms to predict absenteeism and turnover and led corporate councils for Ethical AI in these global organizations. Dr. Huang holds a Ph.D. in Economics with specializations in Econometrics and Labor Economics.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Dr. Huang on LinkedIn
LinkedIn Learning: The Data Analytics of Diversity, Inclusion, and Well-being
LinkedIn Learning: Building a Data-Driven Skills-First Workforce Strategy
LinkedIn Learning: The Data Science of Using People Analytics
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Episode 148: The Future of Tech within AEC
How can technology, innovation, and sustainable practices transform the architecture, engineering, and construction industry?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I chat with Dave Lemont, the past CEO of Revit and the Executive Chairman of Acelab with over 30 years of experience in high-tech startup companies. In our conversation, Dave shares his invaluable insights on scaling software companies, revolutionizing the architecture industry, and the massive potential in the future of digital tools.
First, Dave discusses how his passion for photography and architecture influenced his career path. He also highlights how his entrepreneurial mindset and desire to innovate the industry immensely helped him grow and lead his companies. Dave's expertise lies in identifying product-market fit and creating solutions that address broader market needs rather than niche segments.
As the executive chairman of Acelab, Dave is dedicated to revolutionizing material management in the AEC space, allowing architects to access sustainable building materials efficiently. He touches on the potential of these digital tools in architecture and explains why architects need to be engaged in the evolution of AI.
Architecture is an opportunity to do something for people in the world. Not all the software that I've managed or sold in my life had that potential impact. How this room feels affects me all day. Where you go to school, the efficiency of that building, and how our museums look or how we feel when we walk in – all of those things affect our lives. It's a privilege to be involved in technology that can make that more efficient. - Dave Lemont
To wrap up the episode, Dave shares his recommendations on building your pipeline and adjusting workflow to keep your business afloat amidst the ever-changing and often confusing landscape architects operate within. Dave also shares his perspective on bridging the gap between traditional architectural practices and digital innovation while advising young architects to use a grassroots approach to incorporate new technology into their companies.
Tune in next week for an episode about using people analytics to improve employee engagement.
Guest:
David Lemont
David Lemont is an accomplished business leader, go-to-market strategist, and advisor with over 30 years of experience in high-tech startup companies. David has extensive experience in SaaS business applications with keen expertise in construction tech. Helped five companies to successful exits to high-tech leaders such as Autodesk, Trimble, HP, Oracle, etc.
He is best known for his role as CEO of Revit; the predominant way buildings are designed in 3D today. Dave is currently the Executive Chairman of Acelab.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Dave on LinkedIn
Explore Acelab’s free specification workflow tools
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Episode 147: The Power of Copywriting for Architects
How can architects use copywriting techniques to communicate their value, connect with their ideal clients, and improve their marketing?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I'm excited to share my very special conversation with Nikita Morell, an expert copywriter who specializes in working with architects. She is also the founder of Architects WordShop: an online shop dedicated to helping architects with their words. In this episode, Nikita discusses the importance of effectively communicating our ideas and embracing our humanity as architects and shares advice for crafting copy to help you market your value as an architect.
First, Nikita explains the science and art behind copywriting and emphasizes the need for intentional, research-based writing tailored to your ideal client. She also shares tips on making architecture copy more accessible to a broader audience by replacing heavy jargon with conversational words and phrases.
Then, Nikita highlights her approach to copywriting, focusing on tone of voice and audience connection. She also encourages architects to work collaboratively with the copywriting community and learn exactly how to prompt AI tools and use them as a starting point for specific copy.
A good way just to start is to really take a step back and just make your copy a little bit more conversational. Try and remove some of that jargon. A lot of architects, when they don't really know what they're trying to say, sometimes hide behind a little bit of jargon that makes them sound smart. - Nikita Morell
To wrap up the episode, Nikita offers you an opportunity to work with her in person and gives a sneak peek at her proven framework for gathering, utilizing, and optimizing a client testimonial.
Tune in next week for an episode about the future of technology within the architecture, engineering, and construction industry.
Guest:
Nikita Morell
Nikita Morell is a copywriter for only architects. She is also the founder of Architects WordShop: an online shop dedicated to helping architects with their words.
Nikita specializes in making architecture websites sound more human, less robot—so architects can get a steady stream of ridiculously good projects. Nikita analyzed 663 architecture websites, you can see the results on her website.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Nikita on LinkedIn
Learn more about Nikita
Check out Nikita’s Architects WordShop
Check out Nikita’s resources
📚Continue Learning:
Learn more about the 2024 AIA Conference on Architecture and Design in Washington D.C.
📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:
Episode 146: Architecture, And: Design Crises, Past and Future
As architects, how can we adapt to technological advancements like AI and be proactive in the face of disasters and climate change?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, renowned designer, educator, writer, and post-disaster expert Eric J. Cesal discusses being an architecture optimist within the current landscape, how technology is evolving, where the opportunities lie, and what architects need to focus on going forward. Eric is recognized for leading reconstruction efforts after major disasters like the Haiti earthquake and Superstorm Sandy.
First, Eric highlights his journey to becoming a disaster architecture expert. He talks about completing his degrees amidst Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 recession, which deepened his appreciation for design.
Then, we shift the conversation to the impact of automation on architecture and the disruptive potential of AI. Eric shares where he is already seeing the impact of AI and offers perspectives on how we can get proactive in using it. He suggests that architects should be involved with the evolution of AI from the beginning so that our voice is included in the process.
Half of the world's cities are going to be underwater by 2100. We're gonna have to redesign or relocate most of the world's major cities. It’s going to be horrible, but it’s a really exciting design challenge. The more proactively we engage that opportunity, the more architects put themselves out in front, and the better the outcomes for everybody else. I think that it's central to my optimism that behind every crisis is an ability to build something better than what existed before. - Eric J. Cesal
To wrap up the episode, Eric shares advice for young architects looking to design for an AI-first future. He encourages designers to "design themselves," diversify their knowledge, be proactive, and stick to their values.
Tune in next week for an episode about the power of copywriting for architects.
Guest:
Eric J. Cesal
Eric J. Cesal is a renowned designer, educator, writer, and post-disaster expert, recognized for leading reconstruction efforts after major disasters like the Haiti earthquake and Superstorm Sandy. Trained as an architect, he possesses expertise in international development, economics, and design futurism. Cesal, often referred to as “Architecture’s First Responder,” headed Architecture for Humanity’s post-disaster programs (2010-2014) and is a prominent voice in discussions on disaster resilience, having contributed to multiple leading publications.
Cesal has lectured across the world, and has taught at top design schools worldwide, including UC Berkeley and Harvard, focusing on disaster reconstruction, resilience, and sustainable design. Cesal authored “Down Detour Road, An Architect in Search of Practice” and hosted the groundbreaking podcast Social Design Insights for the Curry Stone Foundation. He co-founded Design for Adaptation and is involved in projects at the nexus of design, climate change, and AI. He holds a B.A. in Architectural Studies from Brown University and advanced degrees in Architecture, Construction Management, and an M.B.A. from Washington University in St. Louis.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Eric on LinkedIn
Follow Eric on Twitter/X
Learn more about Eric
Check out Eric’s Substack Life as a Disaster
📚Continue Learning:
Down Detour Road: An Architect in Search of Practice Book
Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life Book
📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:
Episode 145: The Psychology of Architecture
How can we use architecture and design to address loneliness, promote well-being, and foster inclusive and supportive work environments in the field?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I am joined by Erin Peavey, an architect with a background in psychology, to explore the importance of connection, the power of healing, and the role of mental health in the culture of architecture workspaces. Erin is the Health & Well-being Design Leader at HKS and believes in incorporating research on health, well-being, and community engagement into design initiatives.
First, Erin shares her journey from studying social work to architecture and highlights key takeaways from her HKS report on loneliness, titled “Connecting in Strange Times: The Antidote to Loneliness.” Erin advocates for inclusivity and diversity in the field of architecture and addresses the lack of consideration for diverse perspectives in design while providing practical solutions.
Then, Erin touches on the forgotten aspects of designing for people with disabilities and discusses how to prevent burnout and overwork in the field. Erin shares her hopes for a shift towards prioritizing well-being and support for co-workers over consistent productivity.
I hope that in architecture, we recognize that because we are creating spaces for people outside of the norm, we need to embody those people in the profession. When you think about who is drawn to architecture, there are heavy feelers, sensors, and people with heightened perception. We need all of the variety to bring in those perspectives and that value. - Erin Peavey
To wrap up the episode, Erin suggests that firm leaders need to encourage their teams to create healthy spaces. She also emphasizes the value of giving hype and praise to our co-workers. Plus, Erin invites you always to seek areas for self-improvement while giving grace for imperfection and failure.
Tune in next week for an episode about design crises, past and future.
Guest:
Erin Peavey
Erin Peavey is an Architect and a Health & Well-being Design Leader at HKS. Erin’s passion for
creating environments that support health, happiness, and well-being drives her evidence-based, user-centered approach to design. In her leadership role at HKS, she helps integrate research and practice to advance design for health, combat loneliness, and foster resilience across the globe.
Erin is dedicated to giving back to the design for health community as a Cornell Industry Scholar, an editorial board member of the Health Environments Research and Design Journal, a Fellow with the Centre for Conscious Design, and co-lead of the Foundation for Social Connection’s taskforce on the built environment.
Erin was named Best Under 40 in Architecture for Health by the American Institute for Architects (2015), 40 Under 40 by Building Design and Construction (2020), a Top Young Professional by Engineering News Record (2021), and a Rising Star by Healthcare Design Magazine (2019).
She delights in sharing knowledge and makes insights accessible to a wide audience. Erin uses her platform and network to advance understanding of how to design places and lives that catalyze mental well-being and belonging. Erin’s work focusing on the power of place to help us live happier, healthier, more connected lives is featured on BBC, NBC-Texas Today, Psychology Today, TEDx, SXSW, Metropolis, NPR/KERA, Architect Magazine, Healthline, her own podcast, Shared Space.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Erin on LinkedIn
Learn more about HKS, Inc.
Erin’s Psychology Today Blog
📚Continue Learning:
Shared Space Podcast
Divergent Mind Book
The Good Life Book
Esther Sternberg Books
Connecting in Strange Times: The Antidote to Loneliness LonelinessBuiltEnvironment-Peavey-2020.pdf">Report
Erin’s Rest Checklist
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Episode 144: Power of Podcasting in Architecture
How can architects effectively leverage podcasting as a platform for storytelling, personal branding, and connecting with their clients?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I am excited to share my conversation with Lauren Popish, founder of The Wave Podcasting, Project Manager at Google, and former Design Strategist at Gensler. Today, Lauren shares her valuable insights into the intersection of storytelling, podcasting, and architecture, offering inspiration and practical advice for both new and experienced podcasters.
First, Lauren opens up about her past challenges with public speaking and how podcasting helped her overcome them and build confidence. This inspired her to found The Wave Podcasting to help others find their voice. She also highlights the value of diverse skills and experiences in finding the perfect role for you.
Then, we discuss the importance of storytelling and individuality in podcasting. Lauren emphasizes how podcasting offers a unique opportunity to build personal connections with your audience and guests, especially in the architecture industry, where it can showcase an architect's personality and work process.
A common reason people don't start podcasts is because they believe that it is saturated or that someone is already out there doing the thing they want to be doing…it's not about creating a podcast concept that is totally different from anything else that exists. It's about bringing a perspective that no one else has. You as an individual have lived a life that no one else has lived. - Lauren Popish
To wrap up the episode, Lauren encourages aspiring podcasters to start without waiting for perfect equipment or timing. She suggests focusing on the "why" behind your podcast and embracing your unique perspective. Lauren also shares her expert advice for anyone who wants to grow their podcast and how her company can assist.
Tune in next week for an episode about the psychology of architecture.
Guest:
Lauren Popish
Lauren Popish is the founder of The Wave Podcasting, a company that helps women start and grow podcasts through online educational resources, affordable podcast editing services, and digital community. The Wave launched The Wave Editing, the first podcast editing service for women by women in 2021. The Wave Editing pairs female audio engineers with female podcasters so they can grow their shows by outsourcing the tedious tasks that prevent many podcast hosts from building their audience. Learn more at thewavepodcasting.com.
The Wave is an award-winning podcast company and was founded in 2019 with the goal of helping women share their stories through podcasting. What started as a real estate company providing highly-stylized podcast studio space for women has since become a major online educational hub. The Wave offers free educational resources including over 100 blog posts, YouTube videos, and a weekly newsletter that has amassed a cult following.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn
Learn more about The Wave Podcasting
📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:
Episode 143: Architecture And AI & Head of Digital Marketing
How can architecture and design professionals embrace technological advancements such as AI, bridge the gap between physical and digital, and stay relevant in a rapidly changing field?
On this Practice Disrupted episode, I talked with Ricardo J Rodriguez, the chief marketing officer for Master Builder Solutions, to discuss his career journey from traditional architecture practice to embracing AI and education in the industry. His path highlights the importance of a willingness to consistently learn, adapt, and seek unconventional opportunities in the rapidly changing field.
First, Ricardo shares his background in architecture, including various challenges such as layoffs and industry shifts in DC that reflect some of the broader struggles within the field. He highlights the crucial need for digital implementation opportunities.
Then, we also explore Ricardo's initial fascination and commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends with AI and its visual applications within architecture. He talks about his journey into digital art, particularly in response to personal trauma experienced during Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. He explains how AI art is part of the evolution of art as a whole, how he gained recognition as a digital artist, and the details of his exhibition, Present Futures.
I decided if I wanted to continue supporting, and speaking with folks in the construction industry about emerging transformation – I should do a deep dive into one of the trends that I knew least about, and take myself to the pieces of learning that I was uncomfortable with. - Ricardo J Rodriguez
To wrap up the episode, we discuss Ricardo's passion for bridging the gap between AI and creativity in his efforts to develop a curriculum for architects and designers on image generation in AI. He shares his advice for emerging architects in an evolving field, his perspective on how AI impacts the future of the practice, and why he believes we should embrace these tech advancements.
Tune in next week for an episode about the power of podcasting in architecture.
Guests:
Ricardo J Rodriguez
Fascinated by the intersection between "bytes & mortar," Ricardo is a versatile leader with 15+ years of experience turning innovative ideas into tangible solutions. Passionate about driving digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and tackling challenges within the construction and real estate industries, Ricardo is adept at securing strategic partnerships and assessing the potential value of opportunities that bridge the gap between physical & digital.
Ricardo has worked with Gensler, NIKA Solutions, and WDG Architecture business leaders. After practicing corporate architecture for 12+ years, managing and designing over 2M sqft of real estate worldwide, Ricardo transitioned to a global enterprise role at BASF. Upon Master Builder Solution's divestiture from BASF, Ricardo's industry expertise served the organization globally. Firstly, working within the Virtual Design & Construction team, managed digital innovation pilots, and sourced con-tech startups as part of the Digital Excellence team. In 2022, Ricardo transitioned into a Global Digital Transformation Evangelist role within the Corporate Development department. In 2023, he was named Global Head of Digital Marketing Excellence.
Given his commitment to the construction industry, he's received AIA | DC's Emerging Architect of the Year award and Young Architect of the Year Award from the DC Council of Engineering and Architectural Societies. Ricardo has been a frequent speaker, presenting at over 40 international events over the past several years. In 2018, he was honored by BuiltWorlds, naming him one of the Nation's Top 50 Adoption Leaders. Ricardo's leadership and advocacy resulted in AIA appointing him to the National Strategic Council as an At-Large Representative in a board advisory role, which developed a framework to accelerate Digital Transformation. Ricardo supported launching a leadership development program in his native Puerto Rico. In June 2023, he was a guest panelist at the BuiltWorlds Summit in Paris, France. In his spare time, he obsesses with AI-generated digital art on @bytesandmortar, launching his first solo show, “Present Futures,” at the District Architecture Center in Washington, DC, which opened in September 2023. His artworks were also chosen by the government of Puerto Rico’s Institute of Culture to be exhibited in 2024 at their “Poli/Gráfica de Puerto Rico: América Latina y el Caribe” (est. 1970). Ricardo is also an educator, mentoring four startups and developing graduate/executive courses on “AI Basics for Architects and Designers” for the University of Pennsylvania’s Weitzman School of Design Center.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Ricardo on LinkedIn
Connect with Master Builders Solutions on LinkedIn
Follow Ricardo/Bytes and Mortar on Instagram
Learn more about Practice Innovation Lab
Learn more about the Present Futures Show
📚Continue Learning:
AI Basics for Architects and Designers Weitzman Course
📚 Past Episodes Referenced:
PD # 140 Season 7 Finale, Behind the Scenes of Practice Disrupted
📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:
Episode 142: Digital Transformation in Practice
How can we change the way we use data and digital tools to help improve our clients' business, internal collaboration, and design development?
In this episode of Practice Disrupted, I sit down with Tim Dufault, Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of ConcertVDC, and Stefnee Trzpuc, the Director of Operations for BWBR to discuss the opportunities of digital transformation in practice, which refers to integrating digital tools and processes for design development and client collaboration.
First, Tim and Stefnee define digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning to keep up with industry trends and effectively manage the digital ecosystem. They also discuss how this technology can transform the architect-client relationship and improve overall business performance.
Then, they dive into the challenges architectural firms face, mainly smaller ones, in adopting these new technologies. Plus, Tim shares examples from ConcertVDC that demonstrate the benefits of sharing digital information to reduce misunderstandings between architects and clients. Stefnee also shares examples of BWBR's entire client project process with the specific digital tools, technologies, and strategies they use as well as where they have seen the most success.
There's this ongoing interaction between the building owner and the architect about what's working and what's not. How do we use that building better? How do we make that building effective for 1000 years, not 100 years? I hope that architects are looking at digital transformation as the mechanism to not just simply do something more "wow factor" as a way that we can actually change the world. - Tim Dufault
To wrap up the episode, Tim and Stefnee share their vision of the future, where digital transformation allows architects to create buildings that evolve through ongoing feedback, a focus on community, and an optimized collaboration with clients.
Tune in next week for an episode about architecture and AI.
Guests:
Tim Dufault, FAIA
Tim Dufault is a founder and the Chief Revenue Officer for ConcertVDC, a Blockchain-based platform for registering and sharing digital design information in the AEC industry. Concert solves the problem of data ownership and the secure sharing of digital information during the design and construction process. The company was established in 2019 and attracted investment from major international architecture and engineering firms. Concert is leading the transformation to a true digital ecosystem in architecture and construction. Before joining Concert, Tim served for 15 years as the CEO of Cuningham, an award-winning Minnesota-based architecture and design firm.
Stefnee Trzpuc, CID, EDAC, LEED AP
Stefnee Trzpuc serves as the Director of Operations for BWBR and actively seeks opportunities for complex problem solving by applying strategic systems thinking through a lens of people, processes, and technology. Stefnee leads strategy and teams for technology systems, knowledge management, data, legal and risk management, and administrative services and works closely with all areas of the organization to identify solutions and improvement strategies for an evolving and thriving practice. Current focus areas include studying impacts and opportunities on business and creative processes with hybrid work models, artificial intelligence and automation, data and knowledge strategy, digital transformation, and organizational effectiveness.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Tim on LinkedIn
Connect with ConcertVDC on LinkedIn
Connect with Stefnee on LinkedIn
Learn more about ConcertVDC
Learn more about BWBR
📚Continue Learning:
Redesigning Work: How to Transform You Organization and Make Hybrid Work for Everyone
Momentum: Creating Effective, Engaging, and Enjoyable Meetings
📚 Past Episodes Referenced:
PD # 23 Finding a New Value Proposition Through Tech
📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:
Episode 141: Season 8, Coffee Sketch Podcast
How will the architectural profession adapt and evolve to meet the ever-changing demands of the field?
Host Evelyn Lee is back for Season 8 of Practice Disrupted! In this episode, fellow podcasters of the Coffee Sketch Podcast, Kurt Neiswender and Jamie Crawley, join her for a conversation on the current state of architectural practice and their vision for its future. Jamie currently serves as the Design Lead for the Texas Historical Commission, while Kurt is an Assistant Professor of Practice at Lawrence Technological University and owner of Urban Colab Architecture.
First, we reflect on the Young Architects Forum (YAF), where Evelyn and Kurt initially connected, and the significance of organizations like the National Associates Committee (NAC) in fostering professional growth, innovation, and collaboration within the field.
Then, we discuss the evolving role of technology in design, the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and Jamie's viewpoint on preserving historical architecture alongside changing landscapes. Kurt also shares his experience of starting his own practice and the impact of diversifying his income.
How many studio projects in a typical architecture curriculum actually start out with the name system building as the prompt? Most schools don't have that. That's a reality that a lot of students moving into practice will have to face. I think it's important for them to be challenged by it to a certain degree. If it means education needs to up its game and teach in a different kind of way – I think it's really important. - Jamie Crawley
To wrap up the episode, Kurt and Jamie share their advice for studying young architects and their thoughts and goals as they move into 2024.
Tune in next week for an episode about digital transformation in practice.
Guests:
Jamie Crawley, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, NCARB
Jamie is a naturalized Texan originally from Montreal, Quebec Canada who currently serves as the Texas Main Street Architect and Design Lead having joined the Texas Historical Commission in 2019. In 2018, he was named one of 18 National Young Architect of the Year honorees by the American Institute of Architects. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University's College of Architecture, a registered Architect in the State of Texas and servant leader in his home through the Austin Soccer Foundation. As an artist, Jamie is cohost of the Coffee Sketch Podcast now in its sixth year and was featured as one of six commissioned installations during Waterloo Greenway (formerly Waller Creek Conservancy) Annual Creek Show in 2017. Most recently his sculpture, “fotan fable redux” was displayed at the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum in Austin. He has also taught in several Architecture programs, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Arlington and as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Prairie View A&M University. As a citizen Architect Jamie has served in a variety of capacities to the profession notably serving as Co-Chair to the 2016 AIA Leadership Institute a program of AIA National Center for Civic Leadership as well as the Vice Chair of the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards Experience Advisory Committee in 2017-18. Presently he is a member of the Association of Preservation Technology's Main Street Committee focused on code and development recommendations to the International Code Council (ICC), the National Main Street Disaster Preparedness and Resilience Advisory Committee and the AIA National Historic Resources Committee Preservation Standards Task Force.
Kurt Neiswender, AIA
With Urban Colab Architecture it is "people first, profit second". Kurt provides design services that are focused on low-to-no energy consumption. He also extends this focus to developing the site and landscape design that equally serves to reduce environmental impact. As Assistant Professor of Practice, Kurt focuses on Building Systems, Sustainability, and Energy Modeling in his lecture courses. He aims to broaden the understanding of integrating building systems within architectural design solutions. Kurt is also a founder and cohost of The Coffee Sketch Podcast, an audio and visual podcast about sketching, architecture, and of course, coffee!
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Kurt on LinkedIn
Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn
Follow Kurt on Instagram
Follow Jamie on Instagram
Learn more about Urban Colab Architecture
Learn more about Texas Historical Commission
📚Continue Learning:
Coffee Sketch Podcast
📚 Past Episodes Referenced:
PD # 140 Season 7 Finale, Behind the Scenes of Practice Disrupted
📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:
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