Breaking Ground: A Women in AEC Leadership Podcast

Mariah’s Story – Be Curious

In this episode of the Breaking Ground podcast, Mariah Meyer, President & CEO of BRR Architecture, shares perspective on leadership, perseverance, collaboration, and the importance of staying curious throughout your career. Mariah discusses how consistent growth, teamwork, and curiosity helped shape her career journey and leadership approach, while offering thoughtful insights for professionals navigating change and business growth. Connect with BRR Architecture on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brr-architecture/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/brr-architecture/] Have questions or want to get in touch? Email us at podcast@unanet.com [podcast@unanet.com] Disclaimer: Any resources or links shared in this episode are provided by our guest and are not endorsed by Unanet. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unanet.

Stephanie’s Story – Navigating Your Unique Path

In this episode of Breaking Ground, Stephanie Omdoll shares her journey navigating a unique path in the AEC industry and the lessons learned along the way. With 25 years of experience in marketing and communications within construction, Stephanie offers insight into how meaningful progress for women in AEC is being accelerated through active allyship and shared responsibility. This conversation explores the intersection of leadership, communication, and community—highlighting the importance of aligning people and purpose to drive lasting impact. The episode concludes with a call to action: engage, contribute, and help build a more inclusive and collaborative industry. Because in AEC, success is driven as much by relationships as it is by technical expertise. Have questions or want to get in touch? Email us at podcast@unanet.com     Disclaimer: Any resources or links shared in this episode are provided by our guest and are not endorsed by Unanet. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unanet.

Julia’s Story: Elevate Your Leadership

Women in Construction Week may have wrapped, but this year’s theme—Level Up. Build Strong.—continues to resonate across the AEC industry.  In this episode of Breaking Ground, Julia M. Harrod, P.E., F.NSPE—President and CEO of MWM DesignGroup—shares how investing in yourself and committing to continuous improvement can elevate your leadership at every stage of your career.  Drawing on her experience leading interdisciplinary teams across Texas and serving as NSPE’s 2025–2026 President, Julia offers practical insight into what it takes to grow as a leader, strengthen your profession, and build lasting impact.  Because leveling up isn’t a moment—it’s a mindset.  Featured Resource:  National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)  https://www.nspe.org [https://www.nspe.org/]  Connect with Julia & MWM DesignGroup:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MWMDesignGroup [https://www.facebook.com/MWMDesignGroup]  LinkedIn: MWM DesignGroup  Have questions or want to get in touch? Email us at podcast@unanet.com  Disclaimer:  Any resources or links shared in this episode are provided by our guest and are not endorsed by Unanet. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unanet.

Aya's Story: From AI Anxious to Top Influencer

AI is changing the AEC industry—but it can’t replace the human touch.  In this episode of Breaking Ground: Women in AEC Leadership, we’re joined by Aya Shlachter, Founder of MGS Global Group and a recognized AI thought leader in architecture. Aya shares her personal journey from feeling overwhelmed by AI to becoming a trusted voice helping firms navigate change with clarity and confidence.  She discusses AI as a tool (not a replacement), building community in the age of automation, navigating imposter syndrome, and why her milestone birthday led her to this reminder for every leader: don’t dim your light.  Featured Resource:  📘 AI for Architects Research Report  https://aiforarchitects.ai/c/researchreport [https://aiforarchitects.ai/c/researchreport]  Connect with Aya:  Instagram: @aya_shlachter  LinkedIn: Aya Shlachter  YouTube: @MGSGlobalGroup  Have questions or want to get in touch? Email us at podcast@unanet.com [podcast@unanet.com]  Disclaimer: Any resources or links shared in this episode are provided by our guest and are not endorsed by Unanet. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unanet.

Gayla’s Story: Tenure & Tenacity

In Season 2 Episode 2 of Breaking Ground: Women in AEC Leadership, hosts Reanna Dempsey and Sarah Brown welcome Gayla Nunn, Special Projects Manager at ABNA Engineering.  Gayla shares her professional journey and offers practical advice for women looking to grow their leadership impact in the AEC industry. From embracing opportunities to staying tenacious through challenges, her story highlights the power of persistence, confidence, and commitment.  🎧 Tune in to hear Gayla’s insights and get inspired to lead with purpose.  🔗 Connect with Gayla & ABNA:  • ABNA Engineering: https://www.abnacorp.com/ [https://www.abnacorp.com/]  • ABNA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abna-engineering/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/abna-engineering/]  • Gayla Nunn LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayla-nunn-19496710/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayla-nunn-19496710/]  • A Gayla Affair, LLC: https://www.agaffair.com/ [https://www.agaffair.com/]  Have questions or want to get in touch? Email us at podcast@unanet.com [podcast@unanet.com]   Disclaimer: Any resources or links shared in this episode are provided by our guest and are not endorsed by Unanet. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unanet.