In this episode of the Matthew Byrd Podcast, we sit down with Jorge Quiroz, Founder & CEO of PDBM Consulting, to explore an extraordinary journey that spans architecture, technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

From growing up in Peru and struggling with hand drafting, to discovering AutoCAD, helping shape BIM standards for the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, and ultimately launching his own consulting firm, Jorge shares the lessons, failures, and values that shaped his career.

This conversation goes far beyond software.

We dive deep into:

• How BIM and digital twins actually create value for owners

• Why standards matter more than tools

• The real challenges of technology adoption and change management

• What digital twins mean across design, construction, and operations

• The future of AI, IoT, robotics, and predictive maintenance

• Entrepreneurship, risk, and building a company with integrity

• Leadership, kindness, and doing the right thing — even when it’s hard

Jorge offers rare insight from decades of experience working with some of the most complex infrastructure projects in the world, including major airport redevelopment programs. He also shares deeply personal stories that shaped his leadership philosophy and why passion, empathy, and people will always matter more than technology alone.

Whether you’re an owner, engineer, contractor, technologist, or early-career professional, this episode will challenge how you think about innovation, success, and the impact of your work.

🎧 If you’re passionate about the future of the built world — this episode is for you.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Passion, Purpose & Introducing Jorge Quiroz
01:00 Why Passion Matters in Your Career
02:05 Jorge’s Current Role & BIM Implementation Overview
03:00 Early Career: Studying Architecture in Peru
04:10 Discovering AutoCAD & Falling in Love with Technology
06:10 Hand Drafting vs. Digital Design (Early Tech Adoption)
07:00 Starting a CAD Business in Peru
08:00 Moving to New York & Early Career Struggles
09:10 First Job in the U.S. & Learning Industry Language
10:10 Working with the Port Authority of NY & NJ
11:15 Developing BIM Standards for Large Infrastructure Projects
13:00 Owner-Driven BIM & Long-Term Asset Thinking
14:10 Airports as a Core Area of Expertise
15:00 The Decision to Start PDBM Consulting
16:30 Entrepreneurship, Risk & Family Support
18:00 Passion as a Driver for Business Success
21:00 Work-Life Balance as a Founder
23:00 Building Trust & Flexibility with Teams
26:00 Hiring, Scaling & Lessons from Past Failures
28:00 Major Projects: Newark Airport & Miami International Airport
33:00 Why BIM Standards Matter for Owners
35:00 Owners Receiving Models — But Not Using Them
36:00 Defining Digital Twins (Design, Construction & Operations)
40:00 Digital Twins for Operations & Maintenance
44:00 ROI, Cost Savings & Predictability in Projects
47:00 Challenges of Keeping Digital Twins Updated
49:00 Scaling BIM: People Over Software
53:00 Change Management & Finding BIM Champions
56:00 Standing Out as an Innovator in Your Career
58:00 The Future: AI, IoT, Robotics & Digital Twins
01:03:00 Will AI Replace Jobs in BIM & Construction?
01:08:00 Advice for Young Professionals
01:10:00 Legacy, Leadership & Doing the Right Thing
01:12:00 A Childhood Story About Kindness & Values
01:15:00 Final Thoughts & Closing