mentorDINO

Mechanical Engineering - Career, Pathways, & Leadership

Nancy Kohout, Principal Mechanical Engineer at Smith Group, shares her journey from studying mechanical engineering to becoming a leader in the industry. She discusses the different paths within mechanical engineering and the importance of gaining practical experience. Nancy also talks about the transition from a smaller firm to a larger integrated firm and the benefits of ...

How to be a Mutlidisciplinary Designer

Liz Sydnor, architect and principal of Sydnor Design LLC, shares her career journey and the decision to start her own business. She discusses the challenges of working remotely and the importance of finding what works best for you. Liz also talks about her transition into graphic design and branding, and the freedom it has given her to explore different creative endeavors. She emphasizes the va...

Never Let One Role Define You with Evelyn Lee

Evelyn Lee, founder of Practice of Architecture and Co-host of the podcast Practice Disrupted. She shares her journey from traditional architecture practice to strategy consulting and tech. She discusses the importance of learning from outside the industry and staying connected to diverse networks. Evelyn offers advice for professionals looking to pivot their careers and emphasizes the n...

What if you could be BEHIND THE WEEK of this!?!

Brenna Moore, a heavy equipment operator, shares her journey in the construction industry and the benefits of pursuing a career in the trades. She discusses her apprenticeship program, the different types of equipment she operates, and the opportunities for growth and development in her field. Brenna also talks about the challenges and changes she has observed as a female in a male-do...

COMMUNICATION is the HEART of Business with John Aiello Jr.

John Aiello Jr., President of Cascade Construction Products, shares his journey from joining his father's business to becoming the president. He discusses the transition from manufacturing to being a product rep and the benefits of having a deep understanding of both sides. John also talks about the challenges of being a product rep, including filling up sales calls. He pro...

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 importance of hands-on experience. David also highlights the differences between AV, data, and telecom specialties and the personal preferences...

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 project types. He discusses the challenges and benefits of being a generalist in the field and offers advice for professionals navigat...

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 a project engineer and project manager. Matt also talks about his transition to the role of Director of Construction and the challenges and ...

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 to engineering. Jennifer also talks about her experiences working for restoration contractors, consulting firms, and finally joining G...

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 work on international projects. Ilya also talks about starting his own practice, +Lab Architects, and the focus on resilience a...

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 mentors in his professional development.

Mike also talks about his interest in writing and how he started sharing his ideas and expe...

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 the rules and needs of different project types. She emphasizes the value of collaboration and recommends seeking knowledge and educatio...

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 the challenges that architects face when they neglect them. He also shares insights on changing firms and the value of mento...

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 of networking and building connections, as well as the challenges and rewards of transitioning from an employee to a business owner. He ...

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 engineers and the challenges of being a fully remote engineer. Luis shares his involvement with organizations like Engineers Without Border...

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 gained from collaborating with contractors. Mandy also talks about starting her own firm, being one of the few wome...

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 role of AI and visual education in marketing, as well as the need for collaboration and respect between marketing teams and other stakeholders. Sh...

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 disciplines in civil engineering projects and the importance of involvement in professional organizations....

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 education, and the benefits of joining NOMA. Beresford also highlights his role in the AIA Young Architects Forum and his current position as the editor in ...