The Trailblazers Presented by BST Global

Bridging the Built & Natural Environments With GHD’s Paul Murphy

In the latest episode of The Trailblazers podcast, GHD’s Chief Information Officer, Paul Murphy, and Eileen M. Canady, Chief Marketing Officer at BST Global, explore important AI and AEC industry topics, including:  * How GHD is upskilling its people across the firm  * Why humans should be in control when AI is involved  * How AI will link the built and natural environments  Paul talks about build-by-partner as a strategy and why creating specialty solutions from scratch is not always the best course of action for engineering firms. He also expresses his hope for a future in which AI-powered technology solves the most pressing and complex environmental problems to make our planet safer for humanity.  We also learn why Paul thinks being in leadership is like stand-up comedy and how that piece of wisdom has served him throughout his career. Find out what else Paul shares when you listen to the full episode.

Thinking Beyond Tech With Stantec’s Lalitha Krishnamoorthy

In this episode, Lalitha Krishnamoorthy, Vice President of Data & Artificial Intelligence at Stantec, joins BST Global’s Chief Marketing Officer, Eileen M. Canady, for a compelling discussion on the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the architecture, engineering and environmental consulting (AEC) sector.  Lalitha highlights a generational shift in the workforce, where emerging professionals are entering the field with AI already embedded in their education. She explains that these new designers and architects don’t need to be introduced to AI but instead should be given space to innovate with it. She outlines how Stantec is adapting its culture and infrastructure to support this new wave of AI-fluent talent.  The conversation also dives into the potential of neuro-symbolic AI to bring greater transparency and accountability to complex models, making them more understandable for project teams, regulators, and decision-makers alike. Looking ahead, Lalitha recognizes that AI is becoming less about technology and more about business and how it can help generate value.

Start Small to Win Big With Parsons Corporation’s Ricardo Lorenzo

It’s the second time The Trailblazers podcast is featuring Ricardo Lorenzo, Chief Technology Officer at Parsons Corporation. In this episode, Ricardo sits down with BST Global Chief Marketing Officer Eileen M. Canady to talk about the delicate balance between risk and reward in a rapidly changing technological environment. Ricardo explains his approach to risk management: think holistically. That means focus on the real-world implications, start early and small, include everyone from the beginning and always be transparent.    As the discussion continues, Ricardo reveals that firms can achieve big wins by using data they collect to bring unexpected value to their clients. His best piece of advice to AEC leaders is to let employees “go wild” but first establish guardrails to minimize risk. Ricardo also tells Eileen that he’ll choose passion over just about anything else when it comes to investing in people.

Building a Skills-Powered Organization With Arcadis’ Freek Matheij

In this episode, Freek Matheij, Global Director of Citizen Development & AI at Arcadis, joins Eileen M. Canady, Chief Marketing Officer at BST Global, for a dynamic conversation about empowering employees through citizen development and strategic upskilling. Freek shares how Arcadis is fostering a culture of innovation by encouraging staff to engage with coding and development tools within clear governance frameworks to ensure responsible use.  The discussion also explores Arcadis’ goal to become a skills-powered organization where employees are supported in shaping their career paths based on personal strengths and aspirations. This skills-first approach not only fuels individual growth but also gives leadership valuable insights into workforce capabilities. On the topic of AI, Freek underscores the power of turning the lens inward, focusing on how AI can enhance internal processes and productivity. As he puts it, “It’s really thinking about how you can use AI and how it amplifies your work.”  Listen to the full episode to hear more from Freek.

Storytelling With Gensler’s Joseph Joseph

On this episode of The Trailblazers, Joseph Joseph, Partner and Chief Digital Officer at Gensler, joins BST Global Chief Executive Officer Javier A. Baldor for an inspiring conversation in which he reveals the moving stories behind his approach to leadership, design and AI.  Speaking candidly about his personal journey, Joseph shares what fuels his passion for technology, design and meaningful innovation. He dives into the pivotal role digital transformation is playing in the AEC industry, the growing impact of AI and the importance of storytelling in shaping spaces that truly serve people.  Javier and Joseph also contemplate what the future holds for the built environment, maintaining that human experience must factor into every design decision. It’s a masterclass in resiliency, foresight and the power of storytelling.  Listen to the full episode to hear more of Joseph’s insights.