Think Like a Contractor: Designing for Constructability

How Engineers Think (And Why Architects Should Care)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443455/fan_mail/new] Architects and engineers think differently — and that’s a good thing. In this episode of Developing Designers, we explore how engineers evaluate a design the moment they see it — from mechanical room location and ceiling space to glass walls and structural constraints. We discuss: * What engineers look at first in a building layout * Why ceiling height is never “just ceiling height” * Common misunderstandings between architects and engineers * Why early communication in schematic design matters * Mentoring young engineers to speak up * Lessons learned from construction when you don’t push hard enough If you’re part of a design team, this episode will help you collaborate more effectively — and avoid costly mistakes.

From College to Cross-Discipline: A Young Engineer’s Perspective

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443455/fan_mail/new] What’s it really like going from college to your first real project — inside a fully integrated architecture & engineering firm? In this episode of Developing Designers, Brooke shares her experience as a mechanical engineer three years into her career — from feeling intimidated at 21 to confidently coordinating across disciplines in a pod-style environment. We discuss: The jump from theory to real-world HVAC design Learning on the job without having taken HVAC in school How pod culture accelerates growth The power of in-person communication Coordination between mechanical, electrical, structural, and plumbing Lessons learned from real project stress Why culture matters more than remote convenience If you’re a student, emerging engineer, or firm leader thinking about team structure — this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at: https://eapc.net/podcast

Think Like a Contractor: Designing for Constructability

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443455/fan_mail/new] In this episode of Developing Designers, Jim sits down with EAPC’s Director of Design Process to talk about something every young designer eventually faces — the reality of construction. From the “4-inch rule” to reviewing shop drawings that saved a project from a costly mistake, this conversation dives into: Why constructability matters more than you think The importance of documentation and note-taking How to handle conflict on-site without guessing What contractors actually respect in a designer Why internships in construction can change your career If you're early in your architecture or engineering career — or mentoring someone who is — this episode is packed with practical wisdom you can apply immediately. 🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at: https://eapc.net/podcast [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbGd3OE5HT3g4bjBWdjN3eENxZWNiYzFkUU9lZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttcmlNdExnWU1nZ1ZEbmVJTER2bng5RjFxTEwyZm8tc3QxdVByVVdHVXJHLU1sTGxYd3AzR01WaTBjNG0teWRwWjVjRE9vSW9vbDRHcVBZbWxoZ01IaUo3UjdCRUl0T1BneWVXczFSSXpyZlhIaXVUNA&q=https%3A%2F%2Feapc.net%2Fpodcast&v=pYqMOX-ApMs]

Thrown Into the Fire: How Young Architects Really Learn on the Job

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443455/fan_mail/new] What happens when a young architect is thrown straight into real responsibility — before they feel ready? In this episode of Developing Designers, we talk with Chase Moser, a recent architecture graduate just a few years into his career, about learning architecture the real way: by doing. From being handed unexpected responsibility on a construction site to managing real projects, Chase shares what it’s actually like to transition from school into professional practice. This conversation dives into the reality of learning on the job, navigating construction challenges, asking questions (even when it feels uncomfortable), and growing confidence through real-world experience. We cover: The shock of moving from architecture school to practice Why school doesn’t fully prepare you for real deadlines, budgets, and construction Being “thrown into the fire” on a construction management role Learning to work with contractors and solve problems in real time Taking on your first major project and growing responsibility Adapting to client changes and project challenges Balancing licensure, work, and major life changes Advice for students and recent grads entering the profession This episode is perfect for architecture students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals wondering what the first few years really look like — and why saying “yes” to opportunity matters. 🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at: https://eapc.net/podcast [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbGd3OE5HT3g4bjBWdjN3eENxZWNiYzFkUU9lZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttcmlNdExnWU1nZ1ZEbmVJTER2bng5RjFxTEwyZm8tc3QxdVByVVdHVXJHLU1sTGxYd3AzR01WaTBjNG0teWRwWjVjRE9vSW9vbDRHcVBZbWxoZ01IaUo3UjdCRUl0T1BneWVXczFSSXpyZlhIaXVUNA&q=https%3A%2F%2Feapc.net%2Fpodcast&v=pYqMOX-ApMs]

Great Architects Aren’t Managed — They’re Mentored

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443455/fan_mail/new] What does real mentorship in architecture actually look like — and why does it matter so much? In this episode of Developing Designers, host Jim Tyler sits down with Whitney Burgess, an architect at EAPC and an architecture studio instructor at North Dakota State University, to explore mentorship from both the academic and professional perspectives. Whitney shares why mentorship goes far beyond management, how understanding personality types helps young designers flourish, and why allowing people to fail — safely — is essential for long-term growth. From mentoring students in studio to guiding young professionals in a firm, this conversation highlights how strong mentorship builds confidence, leadership, and better design teams. We cover: The difference between mentorship and management Why mentorship is critical in both school and practice Adapting mentorship to different personalities and learning styles Letting young designers fail — and why it’s necessary How mentorship helps bridge the gap between interns and senior staff Advice for students and young professionals on seeking mentorship How mentoring others shapes stronger leaders Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable insight into how mentorship shapes careers — and firms. 🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at: https://eapc.net/podcast [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbjRaRDNsS0hsSlI2TzBZSzE3elBoREtIRlhmUXxBQ3Jtc0tuX08wSGZsVjhNbnE2b3o1LTJOeW9fQ2ttYWxXTy1ReGU2YjVodlZyV0Y5amdMYzd4TElVWEhzOEFUbFgtOUJGbzhFRXV1VTY0dTBoQTMySlJMSnJlQjBscngwbXBXY19QZjJSVTFLeGtTWkZxdkRhdw&q=https%3A%2F%2Feapc.net%2Fpodcast&v=ypDWy9EQSjI]