podcast

mentorDINO is about helping professionals in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Industry learn about the career journeys, transitions, and advancements. Join Katelyn each week as I delve into the various avenues you can take you career in and around the AEC industry.

What is a Technology Consultant with David Vargo Technology Consultant Side of the Industry David Vargo, Principal at BrightTree Studios, discusses his role as a low voltage technology consultant and the services his company provides. He explains the various pathways into the industry and the…
We need MENTORSHIP to support the profession with Sean Sheffler In this episode, Katelyn interviews Sean Scheffler, a senior associate architect at LGA Partners and the 2024 AIA Pittsburgh President. Sean shares his background and experience in the architecture industry, including his work on various…
From on Site to Construction Director with Matt Morris. Matt Morris, Director of Construction at the Efficiency Network, shares his career path and experiences in the construction industry. He discusses his education in civil engineering and construction management, as well as his early work as…
You could have a career in BUILDING & ROOFING SCIENCE with Jennifer Keegan Jennifer Keegan, Director of Building and Roofing Science at GAF, shares her career journey and insights into the building science industry. She discusses her education background and how she transitioned from architecture…
Resilience Design is People, Adaptable, and Sustainable with Illya Azaroff. Illya Azaroff, architect and founding principal at +Lab Architects PLLC, shares his career journey and experiences in the architecture industry. He discusses his background growing up in Nebraska and his decision to move overseas to…
MENTAL HEALTH for ALL design professionals with Mike LaValley Mike LaValley, an architect and associate at Trautman Associates, shares his journey from education to his current career. He discusses his passion for architecture and design, his experiences working at different firms, and the importance of…
Tara Pakler, a Specification Sales at LaFace McGovern Associates, shares her journey in the lighting industry. She started in commercial design but fell in love with lighting while working in a lighting showroom. Tara discusses the process of lighting restoration and the importance of understanding…
In this episode, Bob Bailey, an architect and specifications writer, shares his career journey and advice for young professionals. He discusses his transition to becoming a full-time specifier and the enjoyment he finds in writing specifications. Bob emphasizes the importance of specifications in projects and…
Paul Steidl, architect and co-founder of Build Casa, shares his journey from working in architecture firms to starting his own company. He discusses the importance of internships, pursuing a dual degree, and the value of working before completing a master’s degree. Paul emphasizes the significance…
In this episode, civil engineer Luis Duque discusses his career path and experience as a bridge engineer. He explains the different branches of civil engineering and how civil and structural engineers work together on bridge projects. He also provides insights into the certification process for…
Mandy Freeland, an architect, educator, and firm owner. Mandy shares her educational journey, starting with an associate’s degree in architecture and later obtaining a bachelor’s degree in communications and public relations. She discusses her experience working for a design-built company and the valuable insights she…
Alyce Anderson, CEO and founder of Wonderstruck, discusses her background in construction and how it led her to start her own marketing firm in the AEC industry. She emphasizes the importance of technical knowledge and project management skills in AEC marketing. Alyce also highlights the…
Dani Schroeder, a transportation engineer, shares her journey and experiences in the field of civil engineering. She discusses the different avenues within transportation engineering, the education process for civil engineering, and the steps to becoming a professional engineer. Dani also highlights the collaboration with other…
Beresford Pratt, Senior Design Manager of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, shares his career journey as an architect and his involvement in various organizations such as NOMA, United Way, and AIA. He discusses his pivot from private to public sector, the importance of creative…
Steve Albert, Senior Project Manager at UPMC, shares his journey from being an architect in a firm to working on the owner side. He discusses the factors that influenced his decision to make the transition and highlights the importance of being open to different project…
Melody Fontenot, a licensed architect and senior specifications writer, discusses her journey to becoming a spec writer and her current role at Conspectus Incorporated. She explains the features and benefits of Conspectus Cloud, a software platform for editing and collaborating on specifications. Melody emphasizes the…
What does a building Electrical Engineer do? Welcome to the mentorDINO Interview Series!   Nick Votaw, an electrical engineer, shares his career path and the importance of hands-on experience in the field. He discusses the process of becoming a licensed electrical engineer and offers advice…
Corey Squire, associate principal and sustainability director at BORA Architects, discusses his journey in architecture and sustainability. He shares his experience working in sustainability consulting and his current role at BORA. Corey also talks about his recently published book, ‘People, Planet, Design,’ which provides a…

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