mentorDINO is the podcast for AEC professionals who want more than just a job titleβthey want a fulfilling, flexible, and future-ready career.
Hosted by Katelyn Rossier, AEC mentor and founder of the mentorDINO Academy, this show features real conversations with architects, engineers, and construction professionals whoβve navigated the twists, turns, and pivots of the industry. Each episode is packed with practical advice, honest insights, and career wisdom you wonβt find in textbooks.
Whether youβre just starting out, considering a career shift, or looking to level up, mentorDINO gives you the clarity, confidence, and community to take your next step with purpose.
You can expect inspiring career stories and pivots from across the AEC world; lessons learned from real-world experience; and actionable advice for exams, firm culture, and career growth.
This isnβt just a podcast. Itβs your weekly dose of mentorship, momentum, and mindset for building a career youβre proud of.
Subscribe now and start shaping your AEC journey with intention.
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58: Architect Specializing in MENTAL & BEHAVIORAL Health Design - Stephen Parker
Episode 58
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 β’ Duration 50:12
Katelyn interviews Stephen Parker, a Mental and Behavioral Health Planner Specialist at Stantec. Stephen shares his personal journey into the field of mental health design, influenced by his family experiences and a desire to improve environments for those with mental health challenges. He discusses the evolution of mental health design over the past decade, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that promote dignity and hope. The conversation also touches on the role of empathy in design, the importance of engaging with end users, and the pathways to becoming a subject matter expert in behavioral health architecture.
In this conversation, Stephen Parker discusses the multifaceted nature of designing for behavioral health, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and the lessons learned during the pandemic. He shares insights on navigating conflicts in design, the diverse project types he encounters, and the significance of considering multiple stakeholders in healthcare environments. Stephen also reflects on how his experiences as a parent have influenced his design perspective, and he offers valuable advice for young professionals entering the field.
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
57: Challenging Gender Norms & Biases in Construction - Barb Allen
Episode 57
Thursday, November 21, 2024 β’ Duration 01:20:37
Barb Allen, a trailblazer in the construction industry known as Construction Barb. Barb shares her journey from being the first female jobsite superintendent at J.A. Dunn construction to transitioning into office roles and ultimately advocating for women in construction. The conversation delves into the challenges of gender bias, the importance of communication, and strategies for career advancement in a traditionally male-dominated field. Barb emphasizes the need for change in the industry to accommodate the younger generation and discusses her pivot to educating others about unconscious bias and advocating for women in construction.
In this conversation, Barb Allen discusses the challenges women face in the construction industry, including gender blindness, networking barriers, and the importance of self-advocacy. She introduces the concept of the 'double-wide ladder' to leadership, highlighting the unique obstacles women encounter. Barb also emphasizes the need for proper PPE designed for women and shares her initiative, the 14%ers box, aimed at empowering women in construction. The discussion concludes with advice for young professionals on how to navigate their careers effectively.
48: How to RECLAIM Building Products on your Projects - Andrew Ellsworth
Episode 48
Thursday, September 19, 2024 β’ Duration 57:21
Andrew Ellsworth, founder and CEO of Doors Unhinged, discusses his company's mission to reclaim and resell commercial door systems as zero carbon and lower cost alternatives to new doors. He shares his background in sustainability and architecture, as well as the inspiration behind starting the business. Andrew explains why doors were chosen as the focus of the company and the challenges and opportunities in the commercial material reuse industry. He also discusses the process of finding and preparing reclaimed doors for projects, the importance of documentation and specifications, and the future plans for the business.
In this conversation, Andrew and Katelyn discuss the challenges and opportunities of material reuse in the construction industry. They explore the importance of sustainable practices and the need for a shift in mindset towards reusing materials. Andrew shares his experience with Doors Unhinged, a company that specializes in reclaiming and repurposing doors, and discusses the potential for expanding material reuse to other products like structural steel and aluminum storefronts. They also touch on the role of architects in promoting sustainable design and the importance of breaking rules and pushing boundaries to drive innovation.
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
Graciela Carrillo, architect and senior manager at Nassau Boces in Long Island, New York, shares her journey from Colombia to the United States and her experiences in the architecture field. She discusses her work in both the private and public sectors, the challenges of obtaining a work visa and green card, and her involvement in professional organizations like AIA. Graciela also talks about her role as the president of AIA Long Island during the COVID-19 pandemic and her efforts to support women in architecture.
Graciela is actively involved in various organizations, including the Women in Architecture committee and the Immigrant Architects Coalition (IAC). The Women in Architecture committee hosts events and provides scholarships for women in architecture. The IAC was formed to support immigrant architects and provide resources and mentorship. They have published two books, 'City Shapers: Stories of Immigrant Designers' and 'Prospering in the US: A Handbook for Immigrant Designers.' Graciela emphasizes the importance of asking questions, being humble, and working on soft skills and networking for professional growth.
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
46: Network & Connections is the KEY for ACQUIRING CLIENTS - Kelsey Ahumada
Episode 46
Thursday, September 5, 2024 β’ Duration 42:13
Kelsey Ahumada, Managing Principal at Portica Architecture, shares her journey in the architecture industry and the process of starting her own firm. She discusses her experience with licensure exams, the challenges she faced, and the importance of perseverance. Kelsey also talks about the different firm sizes she worked for and the lessons she learned from each. She emphasizes the significance of branding and hiring a branding agency to create a professional image for her firm. Kelsey plans to grow her firm and offers advice for young professionals starting their careers.
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
45: Just Take a LEAP and Start Your Own Firm - Jenny Peysin
Episode 45
Thursday, August 29, 2024 β’ Duration 47:50
Jenny Peysin, Principal of Jenny Peyson Architecture, shares her journey from studying fine art to becoming an architect. She discusses her experience working on high-profile projects like renovating Carnegie Hall and working on high-end residential projects in the Hamptons. Jenny also talks about her firm's volunteer work in Ukraine and the challenges of working in different areas of New York City. She offers advice for starting a career in a small firm and shares her passion for sustainable design, including her own passive house project.
Jenny Peysin shares her experience starting her own architecture firm while balancing family life. She emphasizes the importance of finding a mentor and networking with other professionals in the field. Jenny also discusses the challenges of hiring employees and managing workload during slow periods. She highlights the flexibility and autonomy that comes with running your own firm, but acknowledges the need for a support system and community. Jenny offers advice for young professionals starting their careers, encouraging them to explore different aspects of the job and to not be afraid to take risks.
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
44: Broad Interests Leaving an IMPACT on Architecture - Kate Reggev
Episode 44
Thursday, August 22, 2024 β’ Duration 53:14
Kate Reggev, an architect and owner's rep, shares her experience and journey in the architecture and project management field. She discusses her work as an owner's representative, managing design and construction projects for clients. Kate also talks about her passion for historic preservation and her writing on architectural history and women in architecture. She provides insights into working at different-sized firms and the transition from architecture to project management. Kate highlights the differences between project managing on the construction side and the architect side, emphasizing the broader scope and longer duration of projects as an owner's rep.
In this part of the conversation, Kate discusses the role of a construction manager (CM) or owner's representative (owner's rep) in the project lifecycle. She explains that CMs listen to the client's needs and provide recommendations based on their experience, while also respecting the client's input. The CM's involvement in a project typically ends when construction is completed, although they may assist with post-occupancy needs and capital planning. Kate also talks about balancing multiple projects as a CM and the advantages and challenges of working on both small and large projects.
Additionally, she shares her experience as an adjunct assistant professor at Columbia University, where she co-teaches a foundational preservation class. She highlights the multidisciplinary nature of preservation and the diverse backgrounds of students in the program. Lastly, Kate offers advice for young professionals, emphasizing the importance of seeking advice, advocating for oneself, and building a network of mentors.
43: Turning Career CHALLENGES into a Mission to Help the Industry - Katelyn Rossier
Episode 43
Thursday, August 15, 2024 β’ Duration 01:01:46
Turning Career CHALLENGES into a Mission to Help the Industry - Katelyn Rossier
Katelyn Rossier, the founder of mentorDINO, shares her journey in architecture and the motivation behind starting mentorDINO. She discusses her experience in overcoming challenges, including struggling with reading and writing, facing difficulties in getting into architecture schools, and dealing with burnout. Katelyn highlights the three types of burnout she has experienced: overwork burnout, boredom burnout, and helplessness burnout. She emphasizes the importance of understanding burnout and supporting others in the profession. The core why behind mentorDINO is to fill the gaps in architectural education and professional development, providing resources and support for young professionals.
In this conversation, Katelyn discusses the importance of delegation, trust, and mentorship in the architecture profession. She shares her experiences and lessons learned, emphasizing the need for technical detail knowledge and teaching skills. Katelyn explains how mentorDINO, her platform, aims to provide professional development resources and support for young professionals in architecture. She talks about the different components of mentorDINO, including the podcast, workshops, and the mentorDINO Network. Katelyn also offers advice for young professionals, highlighting the importance of building a network and continuously learning.
Takeaways
β’ Katelyn Rossier shares her journey in architecture and the challenges she faced, including struggling with reading and writing and difficulties in getting into architecture schools.
β’ She discusses the three types of burnout she has experienced: overwork burnout, boredom burnout, and helplessness burnout.
β’ Understanding burnout and supporting others in the profession is crucial to prevent and address burnout.
β’ The core why behind mentorDINO is to fill the gaps in architectural education and professional development, providing resources and support for young professionals. Delegation and trust are crucial in the architecture profession. Building trust with professionals allows for effective delegation and ensures tasks are completed accurately.
42: Time to Bring CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT Strategies to the Design Side - Tara Labosky
Episode 42
Thursday, August 8, 2024 β’ Duration 52:47
Tara Labosky, architect and principal of Luzerne Consulting, shares her journey from architecture to construction management and starting her own firm. She discusses the importance of understanding the full scope of projects and helping smaller clients. Tara emphasizes the value of studying construction management and how it provides a well-rounded understanding of the construction industry. She also teaches various construction management courses, including planning and scheduling, construction claims and changes, and building information modeling. Tara's students come from diverse backgrounds and pursue different career paths within the construction industry.
Tara Labosky discusses the importance of understanding construction management practices in the design side of architecture. She emphasizes the need for architects to plan projects effectively, consider resources and staff availability, and manage risks. Tara also highlights the significance of strategic management and setting clear expectations for clients. She shares her experience as a business owner and offers advice for young professionals, including the importance of participation, continuous learning, and preparation.
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
41: Taking the leap STARTING your own firm - David Stumpf
Episode 41
Thursday, August 1, 2024 β’ Duration 01:09:28
David Stumpf, founder and managing principal of David Stumpf Architecture, shares his journey in the architecture industry and the challenges he faced along the way. He discusses the importance of practical skills in architecture education and the need for architects to understand construction management. David also talks about his experiences working for different firms and the lessons he learned about teamwork and working with good people. He shares his decision to start his own firm and the catalyst that pushed him to take the leap.
David Stumpf started his own architecture practice in Pittsburgh to fill a gap in the market. He strategically positioned himself on the east side of the city, where there was a lack of architects. He initially took on low-paying projects to establish his name and reputation. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated his decision to start his practice, and he embraced the challenge head-on. Stumpf advises young professionals to focus on marketing strategies, such as social media and networking, to build their brand and attract clients. He also emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and not being afraid to stumble and grow.
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
https://www.mentordino.com/network/
πJoin the discussion and learn by finding me through: π
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
https://www.mentordino.com/network/
πJoin the discussion and learn by finding me through: π
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
A licensed Architect and founder of mentorDINO. I help early and mid-career design professionals have the technical knowledge, professional development skills, and resources they need to not only have successful projects but also be able to step into leadership roles with confidence! The AEC industry doesnβt have to be sink or swim!
How do I do this? Through a community style learning where we learn from others, learn together, and grow out networks. It is called the mentorDINO Network! Check out my website to learn more or feel free to reach out to me directly.
https://www.mentordino.com/network/
πJoin the discussion and learn by finding me through: π
Your questions, your challenges, your career. We want to hear it all. Leave your comments or questions in any video, and we'll find professionals to tackle those topics. Plus, we're bringing panel discussions to get multiple perspectives. What subjects are you itching to explore?
π Help Us Help Othersπ
Love the conversations? You can now support the mentorDINO podcast and my mission through this support link. I really appreciate your support in keeping these conversations going to improve the industry. https://mentordino.captivate.fm/support
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