Design Development

Lizetta Fennesey is the General Manager of the Eastern Business Unit for Haley and Aldrich, a national environmental and geotechnical firm known for its expertise and substantial footprint across the United States. Her tenure at Haley and Aldrich has seen her rise through the ranks, beginning as a geotechnical engineer, evolving through project management, and overseeing substantial growth within the company. Lizetta boasts a rich professional history that includes a stint in real estate development, providing her with a unique perspective on creating customer value. Her leadership has been instrumental in the firm's growth from around 400 employees to approaching a thousand.

Episode Summary:

In this gripping episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes delves into the dynamic world of engineering and consultancy with the proficient Lizetta Fennesey of Haley and Aldrich. The conversation opens up pathways into the niche yet crucial realms of real estate development, underpinning the massive influence geotechnical expertise has on building the future's infrastructure.

Lizetta pulls back the curtain on the intricate operations of a geotechnical firm, shedding light on the strategic evolution of Haley and Aldrich. From its historical roots to its colossal rise as an industry champion, listeners are led through a journey marked by innovation, adaptability, and unwavering client focus. Join her as she discusses the balancing act of professional ambition with personal fulfillment, providing a masterclass in navigating career growth alongside the joys of parenthood and the diverse paths leading to professional achievement within the engineering sphere.

Key Takeaways:

• Comprehensive Understanding of Haley and Aldrich's Services: Lizetta discusses the various markets and sectors served by Haley and Aldrich, including implications of geotechnical work in construction.
• Importance of Contaminated Soils Investigation: The risks and due diligence associated with contaminated soils are central to real estate development and are thoroughly examined.
• Influence of Diverse Educational Backgrounds: From aspiring architect to geotechnical engineer, Lizetta’s personal career journey reveals the importance of educational choices on professional pursuits.
• Employee Ownership and Cultural Diversity: The episode uncovers how employee ownership serves as a retention tool and the emphasis Haley and Aldrich place on diversity and inclusion.
• Cultivating Leadership and Profound Learning: Insights into leadership development, personal mastery, and lean fundamentals as key to nurturing a productive and emotionally intelligent workforce.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

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Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

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Mike Kunz is a principal partner at Maugel DeStefano Architects, a well-established architectural firm with offices in Harvard, Massachusetts, and Portsmouth, NH. With a professional journey spanning over 25 years at the company, Mike Kunz started his career in architecture when emails and the internet were beginning to emerge. Having climbed the ranks within the firm from entry-level beginnings to eventual co-ownership and executive roles, Kunz's dedication exemplifies a 'started from the bottom' success story. An avid reader and enthusiast for personal growth, he also embraces practices like cold plunging for discipline and focus.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "Design Development," we dive into the intricate world of architecture with Mike Kunz of Maugel Destefano Architects. This show peels back the layers of leadership, company growth, and the foundational culture that drives a successful architectural firm. From discussing how to navigate ownership transition to leveraging business development and the impact of remote work, this episode is rich with insights from Kunz's robust experience.

Mike Kunz shares his journey, detailing how Maugel DeStefano Architects has navigated various economic downturns, embracing diversification as a strategy for resilience. The firm's growth, including a recent acquisition, is also unpacked, revealing a mindset geared towards continuous expansion while maintaining the heart of its successful business—client-centered design services. Discussions on the importance of healthy company culture and managing burnout highlight the human aspect of the architectural industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Diversification and client-centered services have been vital to Maugel DeStefano Architects' resilience in the face of economic downturns.
• The ownership transition process within the firm is a testament to the balance of growth aspirations and preserving core company values.
• Active business development and marketing strategies keep the firm's engine running, fueling constant growth.
• Acknowledging the importance of culture, Kunz emphasizes the organic development of a team-focused environment.
• Effective remote work management has been achieved by balancing in-office collaboration benefits and at-home flexibility.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

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Bill Weber and Mike Weber are the dynamic brother duo who have propelled Gaston Electrical Services to notable success in the electrical construction industry. Joining their father's business in the early 2000s, they acquired the company a few years later and embarked on a transformative journey. Under their leadership, Gaston Electrical Services saw exponential growth, skyrocketing from $6 million to over $140 million in revenue by 2022. Their roles as CEO and President respectively were instrumental in the company's acquisition by the public company EMCOR , an accomplishment that speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence and the fostering of an enduring legacy in the construction sector.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes sits down with Bill and Mike Weber to delve into the trajectory of their family business, Gaston Electrical Services, and the strategic growth that led to its landmark acquisition by EMCOR . From the company's modest beginnings to the cusp of industry leadership, we gain an insider's view into the challenges and accomplishments along their ascent.

The Webers share vital lessons on scaling a business, including the pivotal decision to hire an HR professional, investing in employee training and development, and navigating the complexities of growing from 100 to 400 employees. Their forward-thinking approach towards prefabrication and adapting to the evolving dynamics in the labor market illustrates the necessity of innovation in sustaining competitive growth. Integral to their progress has been the formidable relationship with Local 103, ensuring a steady supply of skilled labor.

Key Takeaways:

• Gaston Electrical Services grew from a $6 million to over $140 million revenue, highlighting the importance of strategic growth and reinvestment in the company.
• Implementing prefabrication and investing in technology are key factors in remaining competitive in the fast-paced electrical construction industry.
• Nurturing talent within the company, particularly in creating exceptional field managers and executives, is crucial for scaling a business.
• Building a strong relationship with labor unions like Local 103 can significantly streamline recruitment and provide a skilled workforce.
• Succession planning and considering structure for enterprise value are embedded in the company's philosophy from early on.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

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Hannes Blass is the CEO of Rothoblaas USA, a multifaceted company that provides a wide range of products for the construction industry, including fasteners and connectors, building envelope products, acoustics, safety equipment, and tools. Founded in the Alps of Italy in 1991, Rothoblaas has expanded to service over 100 countries with employees in about 70 of them. Hannes has been responsible for the company's tremendous growth in the US market since their first project in Montana in 2011. Under his leadership, the company maintains a forward-thinking approach and invests heavily in its people, contributing to its growth-oriented strategy.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes welcomes Hannes Blass, Rothoblaas USA's CEO, whose company's origins trace back to the scenic Italian Alps. With a knack for innovation and serving a global market, Rothoblaas has established itself as a dominant player in the realm of construction, particularly in the mass timber and building practice sectors. This snapshot delves into the inspirational climb of a company that began with two brothers and a truck and became a global phenomena with over 5000 SKUs.

A highlight of the episode includes Hannes' personal journey. Crafting a narrative from sweeping warehouse floors to spearheading the company's expansion into new territories. The story of Rothoblaas is a testament to strategic vision and adaptation, showcasing a transformation from tool resellers to innovators and thought leaders in the construction supply industry. Key moments reveal insight into the challenges of international logistics, cultural adaptability, and fostering a culture grounded in team unity and relentless improvement.

Key Takeaways:

• Rothoblaas started as a small tool importing business and evolved into a global leader in building products, emphasizing mass timber.
• Hannes Blass played a pivotal role in expanding the company's footprint, navigating challenges like cross-continental logistics and cultural barriers.
• The company invests in close relationships with its clients, differentiating itself by emphasizing in-person connections over remote sales.
• Rothoblaas is committed to continuous innovation, expanding product lines, and improving logistics to cater to growing markets like the US.
• The podcast underlines the importance of adaptability in growth, both from an organizational and individual leadership perspective.

Tune in to the full episode to witness the inspiring evolution of Rothoblaas and gain a deeper understanding of what drives innovation and growth in the fast-paced world of construction. Stay connected for more engaging and informative sessions here at Design Development.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

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Don Briggs is a seasoned veteran in the real estate development industry, with a robust career spanning nearly three decades. He co-founded and serves as the managing partner at Hg 80. Previously, Don was the director of development for Federal Realty Investment Trust and played a pivotal role in creating iconic retail-anchored mixed-use developments, including Assembly Row in Greater Boston. An Army brat with roots in various parts of the United States, Don studied architecture, moved into construction, and ultimately found his passion in development. He's respected for his ability to engage with a broad spectrum of disciplines, from design to politics, and for creating immersive, walkable places in first-tier suburbs around major cities.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Design Development, the rendezvous with Don Briggs unfurls a tapestry of industry insights from the realm of real estate development, design, and construction. Our host, Renz Hayes, invites listeners on a journey beside the co-founder and managing partner at Hg 80, who possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of the development sector, particularly in the vertiginous climbs of mixed-use space.

Don Briggs shares his compelling narrative, beginning as an Army brat and self-professed lifelong learner, leading up to his status as an influential figure in real estate development. His architectural background and construction experience paved the way for a prestigious career in REITs. The conversation delves into the philosophy and the fine mechanics of creating large-scale, retail-anchored, mixed-use developments, with a spotlight on iconic projects like Assembly Row.

• The intricacies of Don's strategic moves, such as navigating the complexities of physical properties in shifting markets, reveal a deliberate approach to development.
• Insights into the transition from private enterprises to publicly traded REIT structures detail how financial strategies fuel large-scale projects.

Key Takeaways:

• Don Briggs brings unique insights from his rich experience in creating retail-anchored mixed-use developments.
• The episode uncovers the importance of community-focused projects that invite human interaction and create neighborhoods.
• The show explores the challenges and strategies entailed in real estate development amid economic contractions and expansions.
• Discussion on the role of capital allocation and real estate execution underlines future trends and opportunities in development.
• The multidisciplinary approach in real estate is emphasized, requiring skills in design, politics, finance, and community engagement.

To grasp the entirety of wisdom shared by Don Briggs about the art and science of property development, tune in to the full episode of Design Development. Stay connected for more enriching dialogues that bring to light the leaders shaping our built environment.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

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Anthony Amenta is a Founding Member and Principal at Amenta Emma Architects, a full-service architecture firm headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut, with branch offices in New York and Boston. Approaching 40 years in business, Anthony has led his firm through a landscape of changes, ensuring growth and market resilience. Under his guidance, Amenta Emma has cultivated a reputation for creating inspiring spaces and building strong client relationships.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "Design Development," host Rens Hayes sits down with Anthony Amenta, the seasoned architecture professional whose almost four decades in the business offer a wealth of industry insights. Rens and Anthony explore the entrepreneurial journey of establishing and growing a successful architecture firm in changing markets.

Anthony discusses Amenta Emma's beginnings, their mission to create inspiring spaces, and the strategic expansion to new cities like New York and Boston. With a deep dive into geographic expansion, business development, and company culture, the conversation uncovers lessons on client concentration risk, navigating recessions, and the power of personal connections in business growth endeavors.

• Establishing A Firm: Anthony reflects on the early days of Amenta Emma, revealing the strategies and challenges they faced initiating their business in Hartford.
• Growth and Expansion: The episode delves into the firm's growth, including the strategic decisions leading to their geographic expansion to Boston and New York.

Key Takeaways:

• Insights into the entrepreneurial journey of starting and growing an architecture firm, highlighting the significance of building relationships and adapting to market changes.
• Lessons on managing client concentration risk and the importance of diversifying projects to ensure firm stability and longevity.
• The strategic approach to geographic expansion, emphasizing the need to understand local markets and build networks.
• The impact of a company's culture on employee satisfaction and client relations, and the ongoing need to challenge and provide growth opportunities for team members.
• The value of mentorship in business development and the importance of continuous learning within an organization.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

Michael D'Angelo, the founder of MDLA is a landscape architect and entrepreneur based in the Greater Boston area, highlighted for his expertise in various sectors including high-end single-family, corporate office, multifamily developments, and even golf course design. He is the driving force behind MDLA, a landscape architecture company with offices in Greater Boston and Connecticut. With a career that began in a blue-collar family environment, his early work experiences, such as caddying at a local golf course and maintaining a 200-acre estate, seeded his passion for landscape architecture. D'Angelo also brings valuable insights from his studies in landscape architecture and community planning at the University of Rhode Island, along with additional coursework in commercial real estate development.

In this conversation, Mike D'Angelo, the founder of MDLA , shares his journey in the architecture field and the growth of his business. He discusses his early work experience as a caddy and working on a large estate, which sparked his interest in landscape architecture. Mike talks about the challenges he faced in the industry and his decision to start his own business. He emphasizes the importance of building a portfolio and networking to grow the business. Mike also discusses trends in landscape design, his commitment to business development, and the projects he is proud of. In this conversation, Mike from MDLA discusses some of the notable projects his firm has worked on, including a golf course renovation in Florida and the Fairfield Beach Club project in Connecticut. He also shares insights into how they start conversations with clients and navigate budget discussions. The conversation highlights the differences between residential and commercial projects and the importance of understanding budget constraints. Mike also shares his future vision for MDLA and recommends the book 'Never Eat Alone' for building relationships and networking.

Takeaways

• Building a portfolio is crucial for success in the architecture field.
• Networking and building relationships are essential for business growth.
• Being adaptable and open to exploring different career paths can lead to new opportunities.
• Having mentors and seeking guidance from experienced professionals can provide valuable insights and lessons learned.
• Creating unique and innovative designs is important in the competitive landscape architecture industry. MDLA has worked on notable projects such as a golf course renovation in Florida and the Fairfield Beach Club project in Connecticut.
• When starting a conversation with a new client, MDLA focuses on understanding the client's program and preferences before presenting three or four design concepts.
• For residential projects, MDLA aims to balance creativity with budget considerations, while commercial projects are more confined to budget constraints.
• Building relationships and networking are important aspects of the landscape architecture industry, as highlighted in the recommended book 'Never Eat Alone'.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

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Jason Forney is the Principal and Partner at Bruner/Cott Architects. He was named a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects in 2020 and has had a significant impact on the industry. Bruner/Cott Architects is a 50-year-old firm that specializes in a diverse range of building types, including higher education, cultural facilities, and multifamily housing.

Summary:
Jason Forney, Principal and Partner at Bruner/Cott Architects, discusses the firm's history and their focus on sustainability and repurposing existing buildings. He shares insights into the process of repositioning mill buildings and the challenges and opportunities that come with it. Jason also talks about his journey as an architect and the skills necessary for growth and leadership in the industry. He highlights the importance of empathy, clear communication, and the ability to relate to others. The episode concludes with a discussion on the ownership transition at Bruner/Cott Architects and the firm's plans for the future.

Key Takeaways:

• Repurposing existing buildings is one of the best means of sustainable design and construction.
• Understanding the goals and objectives of a project is crucial before starting the design process.
• The process of repositioning an existing mill building involves understanding its strengths and weaknesses and finding the right balance between preserving historic elements and incorporating modern design.
• The ownership transition at Bruner/Cott Architects was a gradual and well-planned process, allowing the new generation of leaders to build on the firm's established reputation while bringing in new ideas and approaches.
• Sustainability is a key focus for the firm, and they strive to incorporate sustainable design principles into every project, from energy efficiency to the use of healthy materials.
• Reusing existing buildings is a sustainable approach that can significantly reduce carbon emissions and create unique and dynamic spaces.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

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Scott Steiding is the former principal and head of marketing and sales at Morrison Hershfield, a 1000-person engineering firm with multiple locations. He has extensive experience in the engineering and construction industry, particularly in the expansion of wireless networks. Scott is currently the founder of Productive Pursuits, a consulting business focused on improving sales and marketing effectiveness in the architecture and engineering industry.

Summary:
Scott Steiding shares his journey  from his early days developing wireless networks and critical facilities to sales and marketing. He discusses the unique challenges and opportunities in the architecture and engineering industry, including the seller-doer model and the importance of aligning marketing and sales efforts. Scott also highlights the value of understanding clients' needs and delivering exceptional service to build long-term relationships. He emphasizes the need for firms in the industry to improve their sales and marketing practices and leverage technology to streamline processes and capture valuable data.

Key Takeaways:

• The architecture and engineering industry is fragmented, with a few large and many small firms.
• Professionals in the industry are often more focused on their technical work than on sales and marketing.
• Clients in the industry are smart and sophisticated, and they value the quality and reputation of the firm.
• Differentiating oneself in the industry can be challenging, but delivering exceptional value and service can help build long-term relationships.
• The seller-doer model is common in the industry, where professionals are responsible for both selling and delivering the work.
• Implementing a net promoter score system can provide valuable feedback and help improve the client experience.
• Pricing in the industry can be challenging to manage, but leveraging data and market conditions can inform pricing decisions.
• Firms should continuously test the market, adjust pricing to capture value, and account for increasing costs.
• There is a need for improved sales and marketing practices in the industry, and technology can play a crucial role in streamlining processes and capturing data.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

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Ed Dann is a tenured business development professional in the construction industry. He has worked for various companies and has a diverse background in sales and business development. Currently, he is Vice President of Business Development, Congress Construction, a 70-year-old development and construction firm. Ed Dann has over 30 years of experience in the industry and has built a successful career by establishing strong relationships and identifying opportunities for growth.

Summary:
Ed Dann shares his insights and experiences as a business development professional in the construction industry. He discusses the responsibilities of a business development professional, the difference between business development and sales, and the importance of building and maintaining relationships. Ed also talks about the challenges of estimating in the construction industry and the importance of client alignment. He emphasizes the need for resilience and a long-term perspective in business development. Ed highlights the value of chance encounters and the importance of networking outside of the work environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Business development involves establishing relationships, identifying opportunities, and earning the right to ask for business.
• Congress Construction differentiates itself by focusing on negotiated work and leveraging off-market opportunities.
• Resilience and a positive mindset are crucial in the face of challenges in the construction industry.
• Building and maintaining relationships is a key aspect of business development.
• The role of a business development professional is to drive revenue for the company and support the goals and dreams of the team. Over-communicate and be transparent with clients to build trust.
• Evaluate clients' ability to see projects through to the end.
• Maintain relationships and protect client trust when transitioning between companies.
• Target specific clients and focus on repeat work for long-term success.
• Demonstrate competency in new markets to build credibility.
• Attend industry events and create chance encounters to expand your network.
• Have a long-term view and stay consistent in your business development efforts.
• Read books and listen to podcasts on leadership and business development for further learning.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.