Women in AEC: Wine After Work

Guest(s): Norgerie Rivas, Licensed Architect (Houston, TX) — 10 years of experience in commercial design projects, co-creator of She Builds Podcast, passionate about uncovering the untold stories of women in architecture, engineering, and construction. Jessica Rogers, Marketing & Office Coordinator at an architecture firm in Miami, co-host of She Builds Podcast, advocate for women's representation and recognition across creative industries. In this episode, Bryce sits down with Norgerie and Jessica from She Builds Podcast — a show dedicated to shining light on the women who shaped the AEC industry long before diversity was a buzzword. Together, they unpack: The origin story of She Builds and how storytelling creates visibility and connection. What "the right fit" really means — and why it's not a destination, but an evolving relationship with your work. How autonomy, creativity, and purpose intersect in architecture and beyond. The power of legacy: honoring those who came before while paving a new path forward. If you've ever questioned your place in a structured industry or felt the pull between security and self-expression, this conversation will resonate deeply. She Builds Podcast : https://www.shebuildspodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shebuildspodcast/  

In this episode, Bryce sits down with Erin Fantozz to explore what "finding the right fit" really means in architecture and beyond. Erin shares her journey—from commercial A&D design to launching her own firm and building systems that support autonomy, growth, and meaningful leadership. Together they discuss: The tension between design passion and the structures that support it. How autonomy comes from systems, not isolation. What firms can do to attract and retain talent by offering clarity, culture, and career trajectories. Why defining your "fit" is less about the job title and more about alignment with values, people, and purpose. Connect with Erin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/efantozz/ Follow Bryce: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-batts-recruiter/  

In this special episode of Wine After Work, Bryce shares highlights from her recent METALCON presentation, "Unlocking Talent: Proven Strategies for Attracting External Candidates in 2025/2026." The AEC industry is facing a turning point — labor shortages, an aging workforce, and shifting expectations are redefining how firms attract and retain talent. In this solo episode, Bryce breaks down the data, the real challenges, and what top-performing firms are doing differently. You'll learn: Why speed and communication are your new hiring advantage The top 3 barriers keeping firms from landing great talent — and how to fix them How to redefine the ideal candidate beyond years of experience What "post and pray" hiring gets wrong (and what to do instead) Why retention is your new revenue strategy — the $500K problem every firm is ignoring How to build internal leadership pipelines through mentorship + sponsorship Actionable 2025/2026 talent acquisition tactics that firms can implement now Whether you're a firm leader, recruiter, or HR professional in AEC, this episode will leave you with practical tools to attract the next generation of talent — and keep them. 🎧 Listen now and take notes — this one's packed with insight. Connect with Bryce: 📘 The Career Architect → [Amazon Link] 💼 Career Collective 

In this episode of Wine After Work: Women in AEC, Bryce sits down with architect, advocate, and podcast host Caitlin Brady, the creative mind behind The Architectette Podcast. Caitlin shares her journey from launching her career in architecture to becoming a recognized leader and 2023 AIA|DC Emerging Architect Award recipient. She opens up about her experience working in Philadelphia, San Francisco, and D.C., and how a "digital nomad" year sparked the idea for The Architectette Podcast. Together, Bryce and Caitlin dive into: The importance of finding the "right fit" in your firm and career — and how that concept has shaped Caitlin's work and interviews. The realities of relocating across states as an architect and how to research and evaluate new opportunities before you move. The power of mentorship, representation, and storytelling in shaping the next generation of women in design. Why amplifying women's voices in AEC is crucial — and how podcasts like Architectette are changing the narrative. Whether you're an emerging designer, seasoned architect, or simply navigating your next career chapter, this conversation will remind you that you can define success on your own terms — and build a career that aligns with your values, vision, and voice. Connect with Caitlin Brady: 🔗 Website: architectette.com 🎧 Listen to The Architectette Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify 📸 Instagram: @architectettepodcast 🏛️ Firm: Ayers Saint Gross About Caitlin: Caitlin Brady, AIA, LEED BD+C, is an accomplished architect, project leader, and advocate for empowering women in the design and construction industry. With over a decade of experience, Caitlin excels in leading complex projects while fostering collaborative and innovative team environments. She has been recognized with the 2023 AIA|DC Emerging Architect Award and has spoken nationally on topics such as mentorship, leadership, and advocacy. Caitlin also hosts the Architectette Podcast, which amplifies the voices of women in architecture, sharing their stories and inspiring the next generation of designers.

How do you go from $80K/year to nearly $400K… and then turn that into a 7-figure business? This week on Wine After Work, I'm joined by Delaney William—former product manager turned entrepreneur, and founder of Elevated Tech. Delaney is the only coach teaching how to ethically stack remote jobs and use AI + automation to multiply income without starting a business or burning out. In this conversation, Delaney shares: His journey from $80K to $390K/year by stacking remote jobs. Why he walked away from it all to build a business that now generates $1M+ annually. How his team applied to over 100,000 jobs in one year, helping 120+ clients land roles at Google, Meta, Netflix, Airbnb, and more. Practical tips on using AI and automation to increase income and peace of mind. Why true success is about more than money—it's about aligning your career with mental health, fitness, and faith. Whether you're curious about job stacking, exploring AI tools, or rethinking what success looks like, this episode is packed with strategies and inspiration. ✨ Tune in to hear how Delaney is helping people unlock financial freedom and fulfillment—without the grind.  

This week on Wine After Work, I'm joined by Kasey D'Amato—business strategist, executive life coach, and aligned empire builder. With over 20 years of experience in pharmaceutical sales, dermatology, entrepreneurship, and real estate, Kasey has built multiple businesses, launched a global skincare brand, and created a multi-seven-figure investment portfolio—all while maintaining a thriving personal life. In this conversation, Kasey shares: The roadblocks that hold high-achievers back and how to break through them. Why self-mastery and emotional intelligence are just as important as strategy for business growth. How to redefine success so you don't sacrifice fulfillment in the process. The daily habits and mindset shifts that allow leaders to thrive in business and in life. Kasey's work proves that success doesn't have to come at the expense of your relationships, energy, or joy. If you're ready to align your ambition with fulfillment, this episode is for you. ✨ Tune in for strategies to build not just a business, but an empire—aligned with the life you actually want.  

In this episode of Wine After Work, I sit down with Emily, the visionary behind Milliman Design Studio, an interdisciplinary landscape architecture practice in Raleigh, NC. With over 12 years of experience, Emily has worked on complex international projects—ranging from parks and plazas to trails, resorts, and university campuses. We talk about how her work blends technical expertise with artistic vision, the role of community engagement in design, and why she believes landscapes should foster a deep connection between people and the environment. Emily also shares her journey from earning her MLA at Harvard GSD to being recognized by ASLA, the Boston Society of Landscape Architects, and the Sir Walter Raleigh Awards, as well as how she continues to weave art and teaching into her practice. If you're curious about how design shapes culture, or how thoughtful spaces can strengthen community bonds, this episode will inspire you. What you'll learn in this episode: Why landscapes are more than "outdoor spaces"—they're opportunities to tell stories and build connections. How Emily balances technical problem-solving with artistic expression in design. Lessons from working internationally and locally, from plazas to estates. The power of community engagement in shaping meaningful projects. How recognition and teaching have influenced her career journey. https://www.millimandesignstudio.com/    

In this special solo episode of Wine After Work, Bryce shares the heart behind her upcoming book The Career Architect. Just like a building needs vision, a foundation, and a blueprint, your career deserves intentional design. Tune in as Bryce explores: Why too many professionals "fall into" roles that don't align with their values Why women often leave mid-career — and what firms can do to change that How to uncover your core values and use them as a filter for every career decision The difference between mentorship and sponsorship — and why both matter A simple but powerful career audit you can do this week to get unstuck At the end of the episode, Bryce reads the introduction to The Career Architect and shares how you can support the launch. 👉 Become part of the launch team: https://forms.gle/T7tk86gSPEVxFLYX9

In this inspiring episode of Wine After Work, Bryce sits down with Charity — keynote speaker, author, and coach — to talk about the powerful shift from corporate executive life to thriving entrepreneurship. Charity shares her signature 4Ps Method (Power, Planning, Positioning, and Profits) and her Happy CEO framework, which has helped countless women accelerate growth while embracing joy and purpose. You'll learn: ✨ How to successfully transition from corporate leadership into entrepreneurship ✨ The 4Ps every woman needs to build a sustainable business ✨ Why positivity, resilience, and strategy are the cornerstones of success ✨ Practical ways to clarify your vision and set ambitious but achievable goals Whether you're dreaming about leaving corporate, already building your own business, or simply looking for a mindset reset, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired and equipped. 👉 Connect with Charity: https://charitybrown.biz/ 👉 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charity-brown-3539533a/

The engineering industry is staring down a projected shortfall of 600,000 engineers by 2027. Recruiting alone won't close the gap. Retention and equity have to be part of the conversation. In this episode of Wine After Work, Bryce sits down with Michele Heyward—civil engineer turned tech founder and CEO of PositiveHire—to talk about why engineers are leaving the profession and how firms can rethink workplace culture to keep them. We cover: Why 40% of women engineers leave between 10–20 years into their careers The persistent barriers to retaining women and underrepresented talent in engineering Why graduating more women engineers isn't solving the pipeline problem Practical steps AEC firms can take to make workplaces more inclusive and sustainable About Michele Heyward: Dirt road born and raised in rural South Carolina, Michele Heyward is a civil engineer turned tech founder on a mission to build a more equitable infrastructure future, one inclusive workforce at a time. As CEO of PositiveHire, she's helping AEC firms tackle two of their biggest challenges: the engineering talent shortage and the underrepresentation of women of color in technical roles. Michele holds a BS in Civil Engineering and an MS in Industrial Management from Clemson University. She spent over a decade in the energy sector as a construction project manager, where she helped build the power grid, breaking gender barriers in the field. Her career spans technical sales, technology transfer, and leading billion-dollar infrastructure projects. Recognizing that solving the engineering talent crisis means retaining the talent you already have, Michele launched PH Balanced, a proprietary software platform that helps AEC companies retain technical professionals, especially mid-level women of color engineers and scientists. As a 2024 LinkedIn Top Voice, Michele uses the platform to connect with industry leaders and share practical insights on how to close the gap between workforce needs and inclusive innovation. She believes the future of infrastructure starts with who's at the table—and she's here to make sure it's not the same few faces.

In this episode of Wine After Work, I sit down with Andrea Kanaris, a social scientist, social impact professional, and founder of All Things Social Impact. Andrea's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and purpose. From navigating toxic workplaces and a failed business to being made redundant at age 55, Andrea could have let those setbacks define her. Instead, she chose to design the future on her own terms building a platform that equips businesses and professionals with practical, actionable strategies to embed social responsibility and drive long-term value. Andrea shares: What it's like to be first-generation Australian, one of eight siblings, and the daughter of immigrant parents with traditional expectations. The lessons she's learned from navigating career challenges, undervaluation, and redundancy. How social impact work can move beyond compliance and become a true business asset. Why resilience, determination, and self-belief are the foundation of any successful career journey. Andrea is also the author of A Practical Guide to Social Impact Assessment for the Real World and host of a YouTube channel where she sparks important conversations with early- and mid-career professionals about the ups and downs of professional life. Tune in and be inspired by Andrea's story of perseverance, impact, and the power of designing a career on your own terms.

The "post and pray" era of hiring is over — and the AEC industry is feeling it more than ever in 2025. In this solo episode, Bryce Batts shares: ✅ Why top candidates are gone in 10–14 days ✅ What mid-career professionals and Gen Z are demanding beyond a paycheck ✅ How retention has become the new recruitment strategy ✅ The "Career Architect" mindset — and how it transforms hiring into a long-term investment And for the big news… Bryce reveals a project she's been quietly working on: her upcoming book The Career Architect: How to Build a Career That Aligns with Your Vision and Values, launching October 1st. Whether you're an AEC leader, hiring manager, or professional designing your own career, this episode is packed with insights you can put into action today. 🎧 Listen now and get a sneak peek into the future of hiring — and a framework that could change the way you think about careers.  

What if selling could feel fluid, simple, and easy, without the grind, burnout, or self-sacrifice? In this episode, I'm joined by Kirstin Carey, a neuroresilience specialist and serial entrepreneur who's built multiple six- and seven-figure businesses both brick-and-mortar and online. After healing from two autoimmune conditions brought on by years of overwork, Kirstin now helps high achievers master the trifecta of sales, resilience, and balance. With over 30 years of experience across industries—restaurants, health coaching, business consulting, and more—she's sold millions in products, services, retreats, and high-ticket coaching. We dig into: Why burnout is the hidden business killer (and how to avoid it) The truth about why selling feels hard (and what to do instead) How to build a business that doesn't just look good from the outside, but feels good on the inside The surprising role neuroresilience plays in consistent, confident sales If you've ever felt like building your business comes at the cost of your health, relationships, or joy, this conversation is your permission slip to do it differently. Linkedin Website

In this episode of Wine After Work, I sit down with the powerhouse that is Dee Davis a construction industry veteran, professional educator, Master Composter (yes, really!), Certified Energy Manager, and LEED AP. With over 25 years in construction and 15 years as an educator, Dee shares how she blends sustainability and professional development through her work at Yellowstone Professional Education. We talk about the importance of leading with integrity, staying curious, and why setting "big hairy audacious goals" isn't just encouraged — it's essential. Dee opens up about what drives her: nature, people, and the pursuit of knowledge. This is more than a career — it's a calling. We discuss: What it means to build with sustainability in mind Why education is key to evolving the construction industry The bold mission behind Yellowstone Professional Education How to lead with honesty, tenacity, and purpose What firms can do right now to future-proof their workforce Dee's Motto: "I exist to enlighten and inform others honestly and responsibly; accelerating skills, knowledge and helping to set and exceed big hairy audacious goals." If you're looking to bring heart, strategy, and sustainability into your leadership or your firm, this episode is for you. 🔗 Learn more about Dee at [Yellowstone Professional Education].

What if your leadership legacy wasn't about the perfect metrics or flawless PowerPoints, but about the ripple effect you create in the lives of those around you? In this episode of Wine After Work, I sit down with Lisa Even, a keynote speaker, author of Joy Is My Job, and host of the Have Good Ripple Effect podcast. Lisa is on a mission to help leaders and organizations spark engagement, connection, and thriving cultures through what she calls the Good Ripple Effect. We talk about: 🍷 How leaders can build cultures people choose to engage with. 🍷 What it really means to create a positive ripple at work (and at home). 🍷 Simple, actionable ways to bring more joy into your leadership style. If you've been looking for fresh inspiration to lead in a way that truly makes an impact, this conversation is for you. 👉 Tune in and let's create some good ripples together!   https://lisaeven.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-even-have-good-ripple-effect-0778b112/ https://www.instagram.com/lisaeven_/      

Why Finding Talent in AEC Is Harder Than Ever (And What to Do About It) Have you noticed how hard it is to find great talent right now? You're not imagining it—the AEC industry is feeling a real talent squeeze. In this solo episode of Wine After Work, I break down what's really happening in today's talent market, why it matters, and what you can do about it. Here's what we cover: The big-picture forces behind the talent shortage in AEC What top talent actually wants in 2025 (it's more than just money) The hiring challenges firms are facing right now  What smart firms are doing differently to attract and retain the best Actionable steps you can take to make your firm a talent magnet After 25 years in recruiting, I've never seen a time when talent expectations and firm expectations were so misaligned—and that's actually an opportunity if you're willing to adapt. 👉 Tune in and let's make sure your firm doesn't just survive this market, but thrives in it.

In this episode of Wine After Work, I sit down with Jim Riney, a seasoned recruiter and talent acquisition leader who has spent 25 years in the AEC industry. Jim's journey is remarkable—starting at an agency, moving into corporate at a national firm (later acquired by a global giant), and spending several years shaping talent acquisition operations before joining Freese and Nichols. Four years ago, Jim joined Freese and Nichols to do something unprecedented in their 130-year history: build their first talent acquisition team from the ground up. Today, he leads a team of eight with an ambitious mission—to hire 350 people this year—all while shaping a culture that attracts and retains top talent in a competitive market. Pour a glass, tune in, and discover: What it takes to build a high-performing TA team from scratch in a legacy firm How Jim and his team approach hiring at scale without losing the human touch Lessons learned over 25 years in AEC recruiting and why culture matters now more than ever Listen in and get inspired by Jim's vision for the future of hiring in our industry.

In this powerful episode of Wine After Work, Bryce sits down with Marcia Dawood — early-stage investor, TEDx speaker, podcast host, and author of Do Good While Doing Well. As a venture partner at Mindshift Capital and Chair Emeritus of the Angel Capital Association, Marcia brings a wealth of insight into what it means to invest with impact, support women-led startups, and champion innovation in spaces that need it most. Marcia also serves on the SEC's Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee and is an associate producer of the award-winning documentary Show Her the Money, a film that pulls back the curtain on how (and why) funding for women founders remains unequal — and what we can do about it. Grab a glass and join us as we talk about: 🍷 Why angel investing isn't just for the ultra-wealthy 🍷 How to align your values with your investment decisions 🍷 The real barriers facing women in entrepreneurship 🍷 What inspired Do Good While Doing Well 🍷 The behind-the-scenes journey of Show Her the Money Connect with Marcia: 🔗 Website: https://www.marciadawood.com📚 Book: Do Good While Doing Well – [Available on Amazon] 🎥 Documentary: Show Her the Money🎧 Podcast: The Angel Next Door 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marciadawood  

This week on Wine After Work, I'm joined by Arivee Vargas — award-winning executive coach, bestselling author of Your Time to Rise, host of the Humble Rising Podcast, and a fierce champion of empowering women to break free of limiting beliefs. Arivee draws on nearly two decades of legal and corporate executive experience to guide high-achieving lawyers and corporate leaders toward more confidence, clarity, and fulfillment. We talk about: ✅ How to unlearn the beliefs that hold you back ✅ Practical ways to protect your energy and time ✅ Lessons from her career pivot from law to executive coaching ✅ Work-life harmony as a leadership strategy ✅ Her journey as a first-generation Latina breaking barriers Arivee's insights will inspire you to think bigger, dream bolder, and create the career and life you truly want. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 📚 Your Time to Rise (Arivee's book): Grab it here🛠️ Free Boundary Toolkit: Claim it here🌟 More resources + coaching programs: ariveevargas.com💌 Join Arivee's empowering email community: Sign up here Follow Arivee: Instagram: @ariveevargas LinkedIn: Arivee Vargas

In this solo episode, Bryce breaks down key takeaways from the article "Building Tomorrow's Crew: Strategies to Recruit and Retain Young Talent in Construction," and pairs it with real-world insights from her consulting work across the AEC industry. From labor shortages to leadership engagement, she shares why the future of hiring in AEC depends on smart, strategic moves today. You'll learn how to reach younger talent, why tech and transparency matter more than ever, and how to future-proof your talent pipeline. What You'll Learn: Why the labor shortage is an AEC-wide issue (not just construction) The role of authentic branding and showcasing your culture How tech, flexibility, and transparent job ads attract younger talent Why parents and career centers are today's gatekeepers The importance of offering career growth—not just a paycheck Simple ways leaders can re-engage younger teams How to make HR tech your strategic advantage Mentioned in this Episode: Tips on creating a future-focused hiring strategy Insights from firms actively improving their talent pipelines Listen now to build a stronger, smarter talent strategy for the future of your firm. www.mycareercollective.com www.brycebatts.net