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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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What really happens when architecture school ends and real work begins?

In this episode of Developing Designers, we sit down with Izzy, a recent architecture graduate, to talk candidly about the transition from academia to professional practice. From navigating architecture school during COVID to being thrown into real design work earlier than expected, Izzy shares what surprised her most, what school didn’t fully prepare her for, and what helped her grow in her first year and a half at a firm.

We cover:

How COVID changed the architecture school experience
The reality of mentorship, studio culture, and working remotely
What your first year at a firm actually looks like
Why soft skills matter just as much as design skills
Handling critiques, client feedback, and public backlash
Time management, workload balance, and knowing when to speak up
Advice Izzy wishes she had heard as a student

This episode is a must-listen for architecture students, recent grads, and early-career designers trying to bridge the gap between school and practice.

🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at:
https://eapc.net/podcast

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What makes an intern stand out—and how young professionals can transition from student to full-time team member.

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What it’s like to step into the A/E world for the first time—and what you learn fast.