Design Development

Zach WatersZach Waters is the founder and CEO of Black Swan Risk Management, a specialized risk management firm dedicated exclusively to architects and engineers. With a professional background that intersects between legal tenets, insurance practices, and contract negotiation, Zach has become a well-versed expert in managing the intricacies related to risk in the architectural and engineering sector. His company aims to simplify the complexities of risk management and empower their clients to navigate through unpredictable and severe events.Episode Summary: In this episode of Design Development, hosted by Rens Hayes of H+O Structural Engineering, the focus is on real estate development, design, construction, and professional liability insurance. Zach Waters, CEO of Black Swan Risk Management, shares his expertise on liability insurance, risk management, and essential contract details for AE firms. Zach begins with riveting examples of professional liability insurance cases, such as the Millennium Tower incident and a devastating bicycle accident, showing how exposure can lead to unforeseen liabilities even in seemingly unrelated events. The discussion transitions to emphasize the importance of understanding and negotiating contract languages like limitation of liability and the notable differences between 'at fault' and 'exposure'. He stresses the importance of understanding contract language, like limitation of liability, and the risks of poorly reviewed agreements. Zach also covers cyber insurance, construction risk management, and the significance of clear scopes of work. Key Takeaways:Exposure vs. Fault: Understanding that exposure to claims can lead to significant financial burdens even without direct fault.Importance of Limitation of Liability: How capping your liability through specific contract clauses can protect your business from massive financial hits.Contract Language: The critical role of precise contract language in ensuring your insurance policy covers potential liabilities.Cyber Insurance: The growing importance of cyber insurance in safeguarding against modern digital risks and how even small firms are vulnerable.Risk Management Practices: Integrating comprehensive risk management strategies within firms to avoid long-term detrimental impacts.Resources:Black Swan Risk Management: Black Swan Risk Management WebsiteZach Waters' LinkedIn: Zach Waters on LinkedIn'The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable' by Nassim Nicholas Taleb'Atomic Habits' by James Clear'Start with Why' by Simon SinekThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Tony Coskren is the Executive Managing Director at Newmark, with a 17-year career in commercial real estate specializing in industrial and logistics markets. Tony has extensive experience working with billion-dollar institutions, top-tier companies like Amazon, FedEx, and Walmart, and local tenants. As a former Division-1 athlete and hockey player, Tony's competitive spirit drives his expert navigation and success in the high-stakes world of industrial real estate.Episode Summary:Welcome to another inspiring installment of "Design Development" hosted by Rens Hayes. Today, we dive deep into the industrial real estate market with Tony Coskren, the Executive Managing Director at Newmark. Tony's exceptional career spans 17 years in commercial real estate, focusing on industrial and logistics sectors. Tony navigates us through his robust journey from initial sales roles to landing significant deals with giants like Amazon and FedEx.Tony shares critical insights on the complexities of the Boston industrial real estate market, including the challenges of land scarcity and entitling projects, explained through noteworthy deals like the redevelopment of an old Lucent Technologies site and transforming the AstraZeneca campus for Amazon Robotics. We also get a glimpse into Tony's personal life, learning how his competitive edge was honed through collegiate and family hockey experiences.Key Takeaways:The Complex World of Industrial Real Estate: Tony discusses the intricacies of brokering deals for clients like Amazon and FedEx, highlighting the challenges in a congested market like Boston.Entitlement and Redevelopment: The importance of identifying underutilized sites, entitling them, and successfully redeveloping them for high-value use, impacting community and logistics.Skills from Sales to Real Estate: Tony's transition from tech sales at EMC to real estate, demonstrating the pivotal role of cold-calling, persistence, and strategic networking in building his career.Personal Background: How Tony's experience as a D1 hockey player and his tight-knit, competitive family life shaped his professional approach.Real Estate Dynamics and Trends: The shift in industrial real estate from underappreciated assets to critical components in supply chain optimizations given rising e-commerce demand.Resources:NewmarkAll In Podcast (available on major podcast platforms)Mention of Hillwood Development Company LLCTony Coskren on LinkedIn: Tony CoskrenThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Jordan Wilson is a seasoned expert in tax credit consulting, currently serving as Director of Business Development at Corporate Tax Advisors (CTA). With a background in payroll, HR technologies, and tax incentives, Jordan specializes in research and development (R&D) tax credits, cost segregation studies, and energy tax credits. His knowledge and practical approach help businesses navigate the complexities of tax strategies to optimize their financial outcomes.Episode Summary:Welcome to another episode of Design Development, hosted by Rens Hayes. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of lucrative tax credits with tax expert Jordan Wilson from Corporate Tax Advisors. The episode aims to demystify the often-confusing landscape of taxes for business leaders, especially those in real estate development, design, and construction.Jordan elucidates the foundational aspects of tax credits, focusing on how these can supercharge a company's capital for growth. With an emphasis on real estate design and construction, the conversation touches on R&D tax credits, energy tax credits, cost segregation studies, and training and development credits. Architects, engineers, contractors, and business owners in these verticals will find actionable insights to maximize their financial efficiency and foster innovation within their organizations.Key Takeaways:Understanding R&D Tax Credits: R&D tax credits incentivize U.S.-based employers to innovate and improve products or processes, offering significant financial advantages for businesses involved in design and development.Difference Between Tax Experts: General accountants and specialized tax consultants serve different roles; specialized consultants focus on high-value tax credits and strategies that generalists might overlook.Impact of Section 174: The new 174 legislation requires amortizing R&D expenses over five years, significantly influencing corporate cash flow and tax strategies.Cost Segregation Studies: Accelerating depreciation through cost segregation can drastically improve short-term cash flow for commercial real estate owners.Energy Tax Credits: With evolving green energy regulations, architects and engineers can use energy-efficient designs to capture significant tax deductions, thereby reducing project costs.Resources:Corporate Tax Advisors: WebsiteBooks Mentioned:Intangible Enterprise by KP ReddyAs a Man Thinketh by James AllenContact Jordan Wilson: jordanw@corporatetaxadvisors.comThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Justin MacEachern is the Vice President and Business Unit Leader for Massachusetts and Northern New England at Gilbane, a global leader in construction and real estate development. A graduate of Worcester Polytechnic Institute with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, Justin boasts a diverse career in both high-end residential construction and commercial real estate development. His extensive experience includes significant roles both on the construction side at Gilbane and on the real estate development side with Boylston Properties.Episode Summary:In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes speaks with Justin MacEachern, Vice President and Business Unit Leader at Gilbane, about his unique career journey and valuable insights into the construction and real estate development industry. MacEachern, who started with a focus in biomedical engineering, shares how he transitioned into construction and developed a passion for the field.They discuss key projects like Shattuck Hospital and Arsenal Yards, exploring the complex balance of schedule, budget, and stakeholder management in large-scale developments. MacEachern also emphasizes the importance of understanding the perspectives of both developers and general contractors.The conversation further delves into leadership, the significance of company culture, and the role of training in sustaining Gilbane's small-company feel despite its global presence. MacEachern offers advice for industry newcomers, stressing the value of persistence, mentorship, and continuous learning.Key Takeaways:Empathy and Curiosity: Understanding the pressures and challenges faced on both sides of the GC and developer relationship can lead to more successful project outcomes.Culture of Trust: Gilbane prioritizes creating a family-like atmosphere, empowering employees to make decisions without fear of reprisal.Strategic Planning: Effective strategic planning, which involves forecasting future trends and maintaining market diversity, is crucial for sustained business success.Job Readiness: Young professionals should show eagerness to learn and grow, demonstrating their ability to absorb information and adapt.Gilbane University: Continuous training and development are integral parts of Gilbane’s strategy to keep employees up-to-date with industry advancementsResources:Gilbane: WebsiteSimon Sinek: Leaders Eat LastFor more valuable insights into real estate development, design, and construction, make sure to listen to the full episode and stay tuned for additional episodThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Keith Shaw is the President of Delphi Construction, a leading construction firm in Massachusetts. His career began in vocational school, bypassing college for hands-on work. After founding his own construction business in his early 20s, Shaw joined Delphi, advancing from superintendent to COO and now President. His leadership and strategic vision have been vital to Delphi’s growth, especially in the multifamily, healthcare, and education sectors.Episode Summary:In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes interviews Keith Shaw, President of Delphi Construction. They discuss Shaw’s career journey from vocational school to leading one of Massachusetts' top construction companies. The conversation covers leadership development, building a sustainable business, and adapting to industry changes, including the shift from authoritative to collaborative leadership.Delphi Construction specializes in multifamily, healthcare, and education sectors, working mainly with non-profits. Shaw details Delphi’s approach to “building responsibly” by fostering team collaboration, emphasizing sustainability, and focusing on community impact. The episode also explores Delphi’s growth strategies, including self-performance for better margins and quality control, and the importance of developing future leaders.Key Takeaways:Leadership Development: Identifying and nurturing future leaders with humility is vital for scalability.Leadership Transition: The industry is shifting from an authoritative style to a collaborative, team-focused approach.Organic Growth: Delphi focuses on sustainable growth by enhancing its people’s skills.Operational Improvements: Training and processes are crucial for consistent, quality project delivery.Industry Challenges: The episode touches on COVID-19’s impact and adapting to ongoing industry challenges.Resources:Delphi Construction: Delphi Construction WebsiteExtreme Ownership by Jocko Willink: Book LinkTurn the Ship Around! by David Marquet: Book LinkMaxwell Leadership Executive Podcast: Listen HereTune in to this inspiring conversation and discover how Delphi Construction merges leadership, sustainability, and strategic growth for long-term success. For more valuable industry insights, don't miss future episodes of Design Development!Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Clifton Harness is Co-founder and CEO of Testfit Inc., an innovative company revolutionizing the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) spaces with generative design. Clifton's background spans a variety of experiences from working in his family's entrepreneurial real estate business to earning an architecture degree from the University of Texas. He also has experience in high-density residential development through his role at Streetlights Residential, a prominent design-build development firm.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Design Development, hosted by Rens Hayes, co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering, we delve into the world of generative design in the AEC space with Clifton Harness, co-founder and CEO of TestFit. Clifton narrates his journey from growing up in an entrepreneurial real estate family to co-founding TestFit, highlighting key experiences that shaped his innovative mindset. This episode is a must-listen for professionals keen on understanding how software can streamline the ideation and development phases in commercial real estate.Clifton shares his insights on the challenges he faced in architecture and real estate development, leading to the creation of TestFit. The conversation covers the fascinating origin story of TestFit, detailing how Clifton's partnership with his college roommate, Ryan, kick-started this groundbreaking venture. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how TestFit is fundamentally changing the way developers, architects, and contractors approach site planning, unit mix calculation, and cost estimation. Clifton also touches upon the company's roadmap, including future advancements in generative design and the integration of zoning data.Key Takeaways:Innovative Solutions: Clifton Harness and his partner recognized a significant problem in the architecture and real estate development processes, leading them to develop TestFit, which automates repetitive and time-consuming tasks like unit mix calculation and parking layouts.Empowering Users: TestFit's generative design features empower users by providing up to 30,000 risk-adjusted site plan options within seconds, revolutionizing how projects are evaluated and conceptualized.Market Integration: TestFit caters primarily to American multifamily and industrial developments, but also offers tools for hotels and office projects, demonstrating its versatility.Zoning and Data Integration: The software incorporates invaluable data layers, including FEMA floodplain data and comprehensive zoning information through a partnership with Zoneomics.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

A licensed engineer with entrepreneurial spirit, Rens Hayes has a robust background in steel construction, structural engineering and business operations. He co-founded H+O Structural Engineering with Jeremiah O'Neill and has led the company to significant growth through innovative approaches and a commitment to company culture. Rens is also deeply involved in educational pursuits, continually seeking knowledge to grow the business and inspire his team.Ken SanginarioKen Sanginario is the host of the Value Growth Podcast and a mentor to many business leaders through his Certified Value Growth Advisor (CVGA) platform. He specializes in teaching the principles of value growth and has played a significant role in guiding businesses to achieve sustainable success.Episode Summary:In this episode, Rens shares the journey of building H+O Structural Engineering from the ground up, underscoring the principles of value growth that have propelled the firm toward national expansion.Starting from Rens' initial experiences helping run his father's steel fabrication business, the episode delves into how these early lessons, coupled with strategic educational pursuits like the CVGA, laid the foundation for H+O's mission and vision. Discussions cover building a company culture rooted in transparency and empowerment, which are encapsulated in H+O's commitment to "a better experience" for both employees and clients. Also highlighted are the core values that drive decision-making and behavior at H+O, making the firm a standout in a competitive field.Key Takeaways:Importance of Core Values: Establishing mission, vision, and core values is crucial for aligning the entire organization and driving consistent decision-making.Open Book Financial Management: Rens emphasizes the power of transparency in building trust and making financial health a collective responsibility among employees.National Expansion: H+O's vision includes national growth and acquiring other firms to create a better work environment and superior client service on a larger scale.Notable Quotes:"Open book financial management... it's crazy to me that it's not more commonplace.""The power of short, concise statements... programming the subconscious of everyone on what's actually important.""What about your company being hard to find? Or why would good people know that there's something worth chasing at your company?"Tune in to this episode to discover more about how Rens Hayes is shaping the future of structural engineering and learn invaluable business insights. Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Samira Ahmadi is the founding principal of enviENERGY Studio, a firm dedicated to making energy efficiency and sustainability accessible to all. With a background in architecture and a specialized master's degree in Building Performance and Diagnostics from Carnegie Mellon University, Samira has positioned her company at the forefront of the energy and sustainability sectors. She is also deeply committed to educating the next generation of sustainability experts through internships and co-ops, particularly from Northeastern University.Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes, co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering, dives deep into the rapidly evolving world of energy and sustainability with Samira Ahmadi, the founding principal of enviENERGY Studio. Celebrating their eighth anniversary, enviENERGY focuses on making energy efficiency and sustainability simple and accessible for both local and national projects. Samira shares her mission and the driving force behind her company, discussing the intricacies of energy codes and the latest advancements in the field.The conversation covers various essential aspects, such as the complex relationship between building design and energy efficiency. Samira sheds light on the significant changes in energy codes, emphasizing the importance of integrative design and energy modeling. The episode also delves into different market sectors like life sciences and multifamily housing, discussing their unique energy requirements. As the discussion progresses, Samira addresses the challenges and opportunities of sustainability in real estate, along with her entrepreneurial journey from architecture to founding her own company.Key Takeaways:Early Involvement in Energy Modeling: Integrating energy modeling early in the design process is crucial for optimizing building performance and meeting energy codes.Impact of Building Envelope: The significance of building envelopes varies across sectors; it's more impactful in multifamily housing than life sciences.Passive House and Zero Carbon: Understanding the standards and requirements can guide better decision-making for energy efficiency.Decarbonization of Existing Buildings: Adapting older structures to meet current energy codes involves phased plans and innovative solutions like thermal energy storage.Inspirational Leadership: The journey from working as an architect to founding enviENERGY showcases the importance of mentorship and relentless quest for challenges.Notable Quotes:"We should hire at least one co-op and one intern from local universities every year... to know exactly what the word of sustainability is." - Samira Ahmadi"For me, nothiThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Michael Fabiano is a partner at Highpoint Engineering, a dedicated civil engineering firm in the Greater Boston area, which he co-founded in 2010. With a robust background in commercial real estate land development, Mike has played a pivotal role in growing Highpoint Engineering over the past 15 years. His career began at Roger Williams University, where he was an avid golfer and billiards champion. Mike's entrepreneurial journey includes significant involvement with the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) Boston, where he currently serves as the newly elected president.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of "Design Development," host Rens Hayes welcomes Mike Fabiano, co-founder and partner of Highpoint Engineering. Mike shares his entrepreneurial journey, the evolution of Highpoint Engineering, and the value he found in collaborative peer groups. Rens and Mike discuss his transition from invaluable hands-on construction experience to becoming a business owner, detailing how he navigates the complexities of civil engineering.Mike illuminates the early stages of site development and the crucial role civil engineers play in conceptual design. He highlights the importance of communication skills in the industry and shares insights on how public speaking and mentoring can enhance an engineer's career. The conversation dives deep into strategic partnerships, the challenges of expanding services, and the nuanced decision-making involved in civil engineering projects. For anyone interested in the dynamics of civil engineering and real estate development, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Key Takeaways:Hands-on Experience: Mike emphasizes the importance of hands-on construction experience and how it shapes better technical understanding and work ethic in civil engineering.Early-Stage Development: The early stages of land development are heavily influenced by feasibility studies and town approvals, often involving substantial coordination between stakeholders.Business Growth: Mike discusses the foundational strategies and core values that have steered Highpoint Engineering through nearly 15 years of growth.Peer Learning: Joining the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) and engaging with peer groups were pivotal for Mike, aiding in accelerated business growth and insightful decision-making.Communication Skills: Investment in communication, particularly public speaking, is crucial for the success of civil engineers, highlighting the expansive role beyond just technical expertise.Notable Quotes:"I think it's invaluable from the standpoint of what you learn as a kid, getting your hands dirty and putting the grind in." – Mike Fabiano"My technical aspirations haveThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Tim Metzner is the founder and CEO of Fireroad, a new kind of holding company, borrowing the best from venture studio and private equity models. Tim has a rich history as a serial entrepreneur, having founded five companies, including Differential, a firm who incubated Astronomer, Cincinnati’s first $1B+ unicorn. With deep roots in the tech world and venture-backed enterprises, Tim is a passionate advocate for helping other entrepreneurs succeed. His diverse experience in growing businesses and his focus on people-first leadership makes him a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community.Episode Summary:The discussion dives into the intricacies of building and supporting high-growth companies, leveraging venture capital, and maintaining a people-first approach in leadership. Metzner shares valuable insights from his journey of founding multiple tech companies and his passion for supporting the entrepreneurial community.Tim Metzner offers a masterclass on the nuances between venture-backed businesses and traditional bootstrapped endeavors. He highlights lessons learned including the importance of resilience, founder-market fit, and assembling the right team. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode provides an in-depth understanding of what it takes to scale a company, the significance of having aligned investors, and the critical role of leadership in a company’s success.Key Takeaways:People-First Leadership: Tim emphasizes the significance of investing in and unlocking the potential of your team to achieve success and impact.Venture-Backed vs. Bootstrapped: Understand the differences and commitments in a venture-backed path versus a bootstrapped business approach.Resilience and Adaptability: The journey of entrepreneurship demands tremendous resilience and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions.Importance of Founder-Market Fit: Ensuring there is a strong alignment between the founder’s expertise and the market they are entering is crucial for success.Strategic Team Building: As a company evolves, so should its team – the right skills and adaptability are necessary for sustaining growthResources:Fireroad: Learn more about Fireroad's strategy and investment opportunities. Fireroad.ioAstronomer: $1B+ Unicorn Company incubated from Differential. AstronomerChase the Lion: Tim's book recommendation. AmazonSMB: Your go-to small business marketplace for local owners, buyers and brokers. Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/