Space to Build

Natasha Ozybko is the Principal Consultant at Ozybko Consulting Group and the Co-Founder of MOXY:  The Voice of Women in Infrastructure.In this episode, we get vulnerable.  And I am just going to leave it at that.  Yes, you just have to listen to find out what we share.How to connect with Natasha?LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashaozybko/Website:  https://www.themoxyvoice.com/home/This episode was sponsored by BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc.Website:  https://www.bond-civilutility.comLinkedIn:  htpps://www.linkedin.com/company/bond-civilutilityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bondcivilutilityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bondcivilconstruction/This episode was produced by Kathryn Tinnesz.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

This episode features the confident and inspiring Julie Laughton, CEO of Julie Laughton Design Build and JLGC. We Discuss:The value in understanding design and construction4 tips for streamlining how you operate as a project managerHow to start your own project management servicesWant to connect with Julie?https://www.julielaughton.com/contact/This episode was sponsored by BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc.Website:  https://www.bond-civilutility.comLinkedIn:  htpps://www.linkedin.com/company/bond-civilutilityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bondcivilutilityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bondcivilconstruction/This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Jan Burse is a technical operations manager in global security integration.In this episode, we cover what shipfitting, drafting, and security integration have in common.Tune in to hear her lessons learned and transferable skills that have led her to her current role in construction!Want to connect with Jan?Send her a message at janburse@icloud.com!This episode was sponsored by BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc.Website:  https://www.bond-civilutility.comLinkedIn:  htpps://www.linkedin.com/company/bond-civilutilityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bondcivilutilityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bondcivilconstruction/This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Megan Ross is a project manager, puzzle solver, and caffeine lover.  She sits on boards of multiple professional associations and gives her time to her Alma Mater.In this episode, we cover:4 tips for networking and building your career as someone in operations.Problem solving vs puzzle solvingPassing the torch and its benefits.Moving forward from generational habits.Want to connect with Meg?  IG  - @BuilderMegLinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg13ross/ This episode was sponsored by BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc.Website:  https://www.bond-civilutility.comLinkedIn:  htpps://www.linkedin.com/company/bond-civilutilityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bondcivilutilityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bondcivilconstruction/This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Meet today’s guest on the Space to Build podcast:  Erin Comeaux is a hardworking, honest, and vulnerable mother in construction who works as a Team Leader or more commonly, a Project Executive, for Impetus.  Impetus is 200-person, $200 million/year commercial construction company with offices in New Orleans and Nashville. They specialize in hospitality work as well as historic preservation and adaptive reuse projects, and 90% of their work is negotiated due to their high-quality focus on the delivery of design.   And wait until we talk about how they have structured their team for success!In this episode, we cover:The Team of Teams approach in management.How to lead honest meetings more efficiently.How to establish trust as an employer and as an employee.Want to learn more about Impetus and Erin?  https://buildimpetus.com/about/people/This episode was sponsored by BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc.Website:  https://www.bond-civilutility.comLinkedIn:  htpps://www.linkedin.com/company/bond-civilutilityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bondcivilutilityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bondcivilconstruction/This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.Interested in starting your own podcast?  I got you covered!  Message me at kathryn@spacetobuild.co for more information!spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Meet today’s guest on the Space to Build podcast:  Jennifer Wilkerson is the VP of Innovations and Advancements at NCCER and Host of The Builder's Table Podcast.  (This episode is a crossover.  Find my episode on their podcast - Ep 25.)In this episode, we cover:Just-in-Time Training SolutionsWomen in Construction StatsWays we can all help recruit and retain women in our industry.How that actually benefits the Men in Construction too!Connect with Jennifer to learn more:  jwilkerson@nccer.orgDid Ambition Theory sound familiar?  We had the Owner, Andrea Janzen on our show last season:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/0uqvzMJ3i48knvroPHRdEv?si=9cecc76c0dec496aThis episode was sponsored by BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc.Website:  https://www.bond-civilutility.comLinkedIn:  htpps://www.linkedin.com/company/bond-civilutilityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bondcivilutilityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bondcivilconstruction/This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.Interested in starting your own podcast?  I got you covered!  Message me at kathryn@spacetobuild.co for more information!spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Meet today’s guest on the Space to Build podcast:  Katie Garner is a real estate agent and a mother to a little girl.In this episode, we cover:Pregnancy & Career Building - There are so many overlaps between real estate and construction here!  Just listen to my intro for a taste of it!Structuring Life for Success - She transformed her life from "on a whim" to structured and efficient.  Who doesn't need that!Real Estate Tips & Tricks - For the first time home buyer and for the property investor!Connect with Katie to learn more:Instagram @yourrealtorkatie |  www.yourrealtorkatie.comThis episode was sponsored by BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc.Website:  https://www.bond-civilutility.comLinkedIn:  htpps://www.linkedin.com/company/bond-civilutilityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bondcivilutilityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bondcivilconstruction/This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.Interested in starting your own podcast?  I got you covered!  Message me at kathryn@spacetobuild.co for more information!spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Meet today’s guest on the Space to Build podcast:  Aimee Arsenault is the founder of Transmit Safety; a boutique health and safety consulting firm based out of Edmonton, Alberta with a few noted acronyms behind her name (BA, CRSP, CHSC). In 2023, Aimee has been recognized as one of the Top Women in Safety!In this episode:Amy's diverse roles in construction and her journey of accumulating valuable experience.Her pivotal transition into health and safety.Spotlight on common gaps in health and safety policies, with a focus on contractor management programs.The challenges safety professionals face, especially the "stickler" label.The flexibility and effective communication needed to resolve conflicts between field and office personnel.Amy shares her go-to conflict resolution strategies.Connect with Aimee to learn more:https://transmitsafety.comTo hear the cross-over episode, check out her podcast - Transmit Safety, Episode 30!This episode was sponsored by BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc.Website:  https://www.bond-civilutility.comLinkedIn:  htpps://www.linkedin.com/company/bond-civilutilityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bondcivilutilityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bondcivilconstruction/This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.Interested in starting your own podcast?  I got you covered!  Message me at kathryn@spacetobuild.co for more information!spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Meet today’s guest on the Space to Build podcast:  Dr. Nakisa ‘Niki’ Alborz is a LEED-accredited professional in Building Design and Construction and a Project Management Professional.She has 20+ years of operational, academic, and administrative experience in the construction industry.One of her key focus areas includes the advancement of Technology, Learning, and Innovation in the AEC space. She also enjoys her volunteer work with AACE International as part of the Board of Directors as the Education Director and STEAM curricula development and participation with the United Nations Association of Greater Boston. She is currently in an inaugural role at BOND Civil & Utility, as the Technology, Learning and Innovation Manager.In this episode:The value of interdisciplinary thinking and collaboration in career development.How a role in project controls led Niki to game design and the importance of user-friendly experiences.Taking web-based training to the next level – Virtual RealityLearn how to approach management for new opportunities.Connect with Dr. Niki Alborz on LinkedIn for more insights!LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/drnakisaalborzTune in to the full episode for an inspiring career story! This episode was sponsored by BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc.Website:  https://www.bond-civilutility.comLinkedIn:  htpps://www.linkedin.com/company/bond-civilutilityFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bondcivilutilityInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bondcivilconstruction/This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.Interested in starting your own podcast?  I got you covered!  Message me at kathryn@spacetobuild.co for more information!spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Today our guest is Ali Shojaei, an Assistant Professor at Virginia Tech.Throughout this episode, we discuss his career path from Iran, to the UK, and then the US.  We also talk about the future of construction, Industry 4.0!Want to find out more?https://www.mlsoc.vt.edu/faculty/shojaeihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/a-shojaei/This episode was sponsored by the Virginia Center for Housing Research.This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Today our guest is Alexander S. Brand, Ph.D., P.E., is an Assistant Professor in the Charles E. Via, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Virginia Tech. Throughout this episode, we discuss his role in our industry, the staggering stats of concrete's carbon footprint, what is being done now to offset it, how 3D concrete printing ties into it, and the future of concrete.Stay to the end of the show to catch a little bonus question not included in the main interview.Want to find out more?  https://brand.cee.vt.edu/This episode was sponsored by the Virginia Center for Housing Research.This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Today our guest is Craig Meadows, Chief Construction Officer at Habitat for Humanity Peninsula & Greater Williamsburg & Owner at Multi-Tech Builders.In this episode we discuss the history of reinforced concrete in the residential sector including fun facts about Frank Lloyd Wright, we introduce you to 3D concrete printing and share with you how it came to Virginia.If you are interested in connecting with our guest, Craig Meadows, you can find him on TikTok @cmeadows3!This episode was sponsored by the Virginia Center for Housing Research.This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Nadean Carson is a self-professed stormwater nerd who got her start working in stormwater compliance in the Air Force!She quickly realized how important stormwater pollution prevention was to the ecosystem and has since started her own business, Oya Construction, a radical change maker in the stormwater field. We chat about:Her philosophies in life and her background in stormwater. Helpful tips for navigating stormwater management, not just onsite, but in the design phase.Nadean and I also crafted a free glossary for you - 25 Stormwater Terms You Must Know. If you're interested, shoot me an email at kathryn@spacetobuild.co to receive your copy today.If you would like to connect with Nadean Carson, find her at:www.oyaconstruction.com  www.linkedin.com/company/oya-construction-llchttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nadeanc/This episode was edited by Kathryn Tinnesz.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Welcome to the latest bonus episode of the Hallway Moments Mini-Series on the Space to Build podcast. In this episode, Andrew McCoy and I are joined by Chris Thompson, the Director of Strategic Housing at Virginia Housing and we talk about all things housing and community development. Chris is a dedicated professional in the field of housing and community development, working tirelessly across Virginia to increase housing production, support innovation, and partner with community leaders and organizations to create quality, affordable housing options for everyone.Throughout this episode, we discuss various topics related to housing policies, affordability, and community needs, as well as Chris's current work in affordable housing and his goals for the future. We also explore the available resources for potential homeowners, renters, and developers.If you're interested in connecting with Virginia Housing, be sure to check out their website at www.virginiahousing.com. You can also find them on social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram under the handle @virginia housing.To get in touch with Chris directly, you can email him at chris.thompson@virginiahousing.com or call him at 804-551-5950. Don't miss out on this informative conversation! Today's episode is sponsored by the Virginia Center of Housing Research, https://www.vchr.vt.edu/.If you would like to learn more about your potential involvement with the Decathalon mentioned at the end of this episode, please email:  Dr. McCoy at apmccoy@vt.edu for more information.This episode was edited by KT Podcasting.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuildSubscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

This episode's guest is Brittany Gentilhomme.  She is 27 years old assistant superintendent that has been working in construction for 3 1/2 years. She aspires to be able to run projects as the lead super one day.In this episode she shares all of the opportunities she pursued before following in her father's footsteps and pursuing a career in construction. We also talk about:Transferable skills from other industries, include the fashion industry.The financial freedom construction has offered her at an early age.A quick tip for how she finishes drywall corners.As a young woman in the field, Brittany hopes to be an example to other young women who want to work in non-traditional careers. She also recently bought her first house and has been doing a complete renovation on it in her spare time. If you would like to connect with her:Instagram - @builderwithabowLinkedIn - Brittany GentilhommeIf you would like to read a sample of her writing:Check out the featured post in her LinkedIn Bio!Or click here!spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Meet Kabri Lehrman-Schmid!  She is the mother of two and project superintendent for a large national GC and a huge advocate for psychological safety in construction.We not only talk about our path into the industry and what her day-to-day looks like, but we cover what psychological safety means and how we can create a more inclusive environment at work. Kabri also shares her personal success stories to inspire and guide you to do the same on your job site. And if you wanted to learn more about the integrated project delivery method, we cover that too.  If you want to connect with Kabri, you can find her here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kabri-lehrman-schmid/This episode was supported by ThriveHQ.  If you are interested in purchasing her book, please check out here:  https://www.thrivehq.ca/hiring-secrets.  Use our code S2B10 for a 10% discount!This episode was edited by KT Podcasting.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Meet Kelsey Longmoore!She is the founder and dreamer behind Kilo Lima Code, an online Canadian building code resource library and community.Kelsey is a multi-passionate human figuring out life and what feeds her soul.Her niche in our industry is one many of us don't spend much time thinking about as a career path.Let's get behind the scenes of the Canadian building code community and learn:How Kelsey became a building code engineer and later transitioned into a design consultant role.The value of experiencing aspects of our industry from the opposite side.And how Kilo Lima will change the way Canada will understand the national building code.If you want to connect with Kelsey, you can find her here:https://kilolimacode.com/https://www.linkedin.comThis episode was edited by KT Podcasting.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Welcome to our Second Bonus Episode or Part Two of our Mini-series on the Space to Build podcast.  This mini-series is what my cohost, Andrew McCoy, and I have been calling The Hallway Moments.In today's episode, we bring out 3 student guests to discuss the Orange County Sustainability Decathlon.We get a unique look into each guests’ life and early professional career path and learn how sustainability and this next generation of construction professionals will influence the future of our industry.Our Guests:Polly Tolmachenko - An international student in her junior as a Construction Engineering and Management student at Virginia Tech.  She is the Creative Director of her Decathlon Team.Andrew Bates - A Junior at Virginia Tech studying Construction Engineering and Management and a Team Lead of the Decathlon Team.Seth Martin - A field-experienced student finishing his undergraduate degree and pursuing an accelerated master's program in Building Construction Science and Management.  A Team Lead in the construction and engineering, sustainability, and innovation portions of the Decathlon Team.If you would like to connect with the team or follow along, check out their social media accounts:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/orange-county-sustainability-decathlon-vt/TikTok - @vt_ocsd23Please head to the blog to learn more:  https://spacetobuild.co/blog/This episode was edited by KT Podcasting.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Meet Sharron with Halpert Life Safety Consulting!  You are about to find out what happens when a former kindergarten teacher changes gears and starts to work in construction, or more specifically in firestop.We chat about her:Her crazy career path into firestop consulting.The 101 of Firestop.Specific Scenarios to keep an eye out for on site.Resources if you want to learn more!If you want to connect with Sharron, you can find her here:Email:  sharron@halpertlifesafety.comPhone Number:  2012504193Social Media:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | TwitterWant the FREEBIE we reference:  Grab it here!Please head to the blog to learn more:  https://spacetobuild.co/blog/This episode was edited by KT Podcasting.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Today we are chatting with Tonia Rivers.  She is a mom, Founder and Executive Director of Mothers in Construction, Podcast Host of the Mothers in Construction Podcast, Motivational Speaker, Owner & President of WLS Construction Consultants LLC, and a 17-year construction professionalWe chat about her:Her transition from architecture school to constructionHer career path from estimator to working for the army corp of engineers and beyondThe benefits of taking on tasks before they are expected of youHer story leading into motherhoodThe Mothers in Construction PodcastIf you want more motherhood in construction stories, check out her podcast or pull up the Space to Build Blog.  Starting this month (March 2023), we will be featuring motherhood and pregnancy stories on the blog through the lens of mothers in our S2B community!Resources from this Episode:The book she references - What to Expect When You're ExpectingHer podcast episode she references - Episode 16 - My WhyIf you want to connect with Tonia, you can find her here:Tonia Rivers - LinkedInwww.mothersincon.org M.I.C. - LinkedIn | Instagramwww.wlsconconsultllc.comPlease head to the blog to learn more and check out the Trailblazing Mothers in Construction blog series:  https://spacetobuild.co/blog/This episode was edited by KT Podcasting.spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!