Leadership Blueprints

What does it take to excel in architecture and engineering leadership?  Andrew Lewis, principal architect at NK Architects and manager of their Philadelphia office, shares his journey from an ambitious architecture student to leading in one of the industry’s most respected firms. Reflecting on his formative years, Andrew highlights how serendipity and initiative shaped his career, from pivotal moments like building connections at unexpected places to spearheading large-scale projects early in his tenure.  Andrew also discusses the importance of curiosity, a willingness to step outside comfort zones, and fostering a workplace culture that embraces trust and autonomy. He provides insights into NK Architects’ entrepreneurial spirit, the feedback loops that propelled his rapid growth, and the firm’s adoption of the EOS system to guide their next phase of development.  Tune in for valuable lessons on balancing ambition with humility, creating environments for leadership to thrive, and staying curious in a fast-evolving industry! Key Points From This Episode:•   Andrew’s journey to becoming an architect and joining NK Architects.•   Reflections on how the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry is evolving.•   The importance of having a willingness to grow, especially as you start your career.•   Andrew’s insights on nurturing leadership within your organizations. Quotes:“Graduating into the bottom of a recession isn't really so bad, because you don't really have anything to lose. It's not like when you start working for a couple years and you get comfortable and then all of a sudden the industry just completely shuts down.” — Andrew Lewis  “The feedback loop opportunity that I was getting was so tight and so condensed that I was like, ‘I'm advancing at a really fast rate here, and if I just keep at this, who knows where it's going to go’. And 14 years later, I feel like that feedback loop is still active – I'm still really learning and growing daily.” — Andrew Lewis “It was really rapid growth for where I [was] in my career. And I can't say that was because of me. That was really because of the environment that I was placed in.” — Andrew Lewis  “This knowledge of when to speak up and when to say something and when to take action – I can't say that anyone taught me that. I think that's that's just a thing [where] maybe there's a bit of it inside of you, and then there's a bit of nurture as well.” — Andrew Lewis  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Andrew Lewis on LinkedInNK ArchitectsAIANCARBFitwelTractionPhishTrey AnastasioThe Prof G Pod with Scott GallowayCherelle ParkerLeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

 While military strategy often looks to the past, the future demands adaptability and innovation.  At West Point, the Cyber Engineering & Academic Center (CEAC) is designed to prepare cadets for the technological and military challenges of tomorrow. In this episode, Dr. Led Klosky, Professor of Civil Engineering and the Dean’s Executive Agent for Design and Construction, takes us behind the scenes of the $200 million CEAC project.  He reveals how its design balances tradition with modern needs, creating flexible, future-proof spaces that are ready for anything (even the potential for giant fighting robots! Dr. Klosky also reflects on fostering collaboration among stakeholders, managing friction with empathy, and the importance of mental resilience in high-pressure environments like construction and the military.  Tune in to uncover leadership lessons that apply to any field and discover how adaptability, vision, and clear communication can drive success in even the most complex projects. Key Points From This Episode:•   Dr. Klosky’s journey from Virginia Tech to West Point via the oil fields and academia.•   His evolving role as the Dean’s Executive Agent for Design and Construction at West Point.•   Why collaboration and flexibility are essential for building a dynamic, future-ready US Army.•   Reasons that communication is key for resolving issues and keeping stakeholders aligned.•   Addressing mental health and resilience in military, academic, and construction settings.•   Unpacking some of the parallels between Army and construction industry cultures. Quotes:“We teach leadership [at West Point]. We grow leaders. It’s possible to make an excursion from where you are to where you want to be – as a leader or a human being. It’s not innate or somehow written in the stars at the time of your birth.” — Dr. Led Klosky  “Communication often suffers in times of crisis when, in fact, communication should go up. You should have more communication the bigger the crisis.” — Dr. Led Klosky  “Luck is a combination of preparation, recognition, and action.” — Dr. Led Klosky  “How do we involve [all stakeholders] in a way that acknowledges the expertise they bring, harvests their great ideas, and moves to resolution quickly when there's a conflict? That was largely my role [to facilitate] during [the CEAC design process].” — Dr. Led Klosky Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Led KloskyDr. Led Klosky on LinkedInUS Military Academy at West PointCyber & Engineering Academic Center (CEAC)USMA 2035 Modernization Plan1776Into Thin AirLeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

Long-time listeners of the show may have noticed that we have a new name! Welcome to another episode of Leadership Blueprints – formerly Inspiring People and Places. Today, BJ is discussing the podcast’s recent rebrand and the exciting changes we can expect.  Tuning in, you’ll hear about why we decided to rebrand the show, why the intention and mission haven’t changed, an overview of what will be different, and why we will have a sharper focus on leadership. In closing, BJ tells listeners what he hopes this podcast will give to them and shares his desire for this change to be a breath of fresh air.  To hear all this and even be reminded of the gift that leadership responsibilities bring, press play now!  Key Points From This Episode:•   Why we rebranded the podcast. •   The purpose and intention of Inspiring People and Places. •   BJ’s definition of what leadership is. •   What is staying the same in the podcast and what is changing. •   Why BJ believes that everyone has leadership responsibilities.  Quotes:“I’m very excited about the logo and the brand. I just think it’s more on target.” — BJ Kraemer  “I hope that we’re delivering a lot of value. That is and remains our goal.” — BJ Kraemer  “[The] name [of the podcast] has changed, the mission remains the same.” — BJ Kraemer  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Leadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

If you want to be a leader, you have to own your career and do it with humility.  Today’s guest is self-proclaimed practitioner-scholar, Tedd Wheeler. With a background in the military and a career in AEC, Tedd uses his incredible skills to mentor and coach the next generation.  Tuning in, you’ll hear all about Tedd’s career, his time in the military, his passion for teaching, and the importance of Individual Development Planning. Tedd goes on to share how he balances his mentees’ expectations before discussing how military principles like MDMP can be used in the civilian sector.  Our guest tells us about some of his favorite books, discusses why he would love to have dinner with his late mom and brother one more time, and shares how he would like to be remembered when he passes away. Finally, he reminds us to have a passion, purpose, and plan in everything we do!  Thanks for listening in!  Key Points From This Episode:•   A breakdown of our guest’s career and passion for teaching. •   What a great Individual Development Plan process looks like. •   Examples of what makes for great mentor-mentee relationships. •   The importance of breaking down the steps towards your goals. •   Making use of military principles in the civilian sector.  Quotes:“If you are not your own best personnel manager, no one will take care of you.” — Tedd Wheeler  “Education is about meeting the students where they are.” — Tedd Wheeler  “You can’t have a learning organization if you don’t have individuals [who] are taking charge of themselves.” — Tedd Wheeler  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Tedd Wheeler on LinkedInTedd Wheeler on Research Gate Tedd’s Individual Development PlanMDMPTroop Leading Procedures The Fifth DisciplineMao Tse-Tung on RevolutionOn FireLeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

There is a destructive yet persistent American culture that sees people elevated to leadership positions without the required training or coaching. Today’s guest aims to ease this particular pain point by bringing military-style leadership to the civilian world.  John Gronski is a former Major General who's pivoted to being a motivational speaker and life coach. He begins our conversation by describing everything that happens at the coaching and consulting company he founded: Leader Grove. We learn about John’s journey from rural Pennsylvania to coaching and via the Army before honing in on the challenges he faced while deployed with the Army in Ramadi, Iraq.  John also shares what he learned about being a leader from his time in active service, the ins and outs of his three leadership-centered books, the undeniable value of mentorship, and the best practices for building resilience and a never-say-die mindset.  Key Points From This Episode:•   Unpacking the American culture of raising leaders without adequate leadership training.•   From rural Pennsylvania to the Army to coaching: How it happened for John. •   Understanding the value of mentorship and practical advice for seeking the right mentors. Quotes:“My personal purpose is to help leaders who want to improve and become better leaders. That’s why I started Leader Grove.” — Major General John Gronski  “We need people in our life who make us stronger and we have to look for people that we could make stronger. That’s what leadership, in my mind, is all about.” — Major General John Gronski “Mentorship is 360 degrees. Which means, I not only get mentored from people who are senior than me; I could get mentored from someone who is much junior that I am. You can learn from everybody, no matter what their level of life experience is.” — Major General John Gronski  “I believe leaders are grown and not born.” — Major General John Gronski  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Major General John GronskiMajor General John Gronski on LinkedInMajor General John Gronski on InstagramMajor General John Gronski on YouTubeMajor General John Gronski on Facebook Books by Major General John GronskiLeader Grove U.S. Air Force ROTCNational Guard U.S. Army United States Army Europe and Africa  Proverbs 27:17 The Leadership ChallengeThe Leadership MomentWe Were Soldiers Once...and YoungThe Miracle MorningLeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

What does it take to redefine leadership beyond the battlefield?  In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, former CH-53E helicopter pilot, Marine Corps veteran, and MCFA Project Leader Steve Kempa sheds light on his transformative journey from Marine to mentor.  Steve shares how his time in the military helped shape his understanding of leadership and how transitioning to the civilian world pushed him to embrace empathy, emotional intelligence, and the power of collaboration. He also offers insight into the “mission first, people always” mantra that he learned during his career as a Marine, reflecting on the importance of balancing goals with compassion.  From earning his MBA while on active duty to championing veterans' mental health through November, Steve opens up about overcoming personal challenges, staying grounded through martial arts, and finding purpose in mentoring the next generation.  This conversation is essential listening for veterans, mentors, and anyone seeking to reimagine leadership beyond titles and rank! Key Points From This Episode:•   How he found new challenges and professional growth after 10 years in the Marines.•   How he earned an MBA while on active duty, focusing on marketing, innovation, and design.•   The challenges of adapting military leadership skills to civilian environments.•   Why inclusion, emotional intelligence, and coaching rather than leading are key.•   Shifting from hierarchical, rank-based leadership to collaborative, empathy-driven leadership.•   The value of building trust and motivating teams by connecting their tasks to larger goals.•   The power of leveraging the veteran network for guidance and opportunities.•   Reasons to stay active, seek fulfilling endeavors, and focus on personal growth.  Quotes:“Having empathy [and] understanding that you never know what someone else might be going through – is so crucial because as much as we need to get the mission done, something that I learned – during my time in the military is ‘mission first people always’.” — Steve Kempa  “As flawed as I may be, I still find purpose and value in mentoring young men and helping other people out.” — Steve Kempa  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Steve KempaSteve Kempa on LinkedInThe Challenge CenterThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal ChangeMovemberThe Unforgiving Minute: A Soldier's EducationWith the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa by E. B. SledgeSons YouthLeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

What if your personal challenges could inspire a business that changes lives?  In this episode, we delve into the power of transformative leadership and impact-driven entrepreneurship. We uncovered the inspiring journey of Brett and Mary Elaine Baker as they built VAUSA, a remarkable virtual assistant company dedicated to empowering military families while supporting faith- and mission-driven businesses.  Join us as Brett and Mary Elaine share their journey from military life to entrepreneurship, detailing the growth of their business, their integration of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), and the unique dynamics of their leadership roles as Visionary and Integrator. From insights on balancing work, family, and mental health to practical tips for using your gifts to serve others, this conversation offers actionable strategies for anyone looking to align their work with their values.  To discover how redefining success as impact, not just profit, can transform your life, tune in today! Key Points From This Episode•   An introduction to Brett, Mary Elaine, VAUSA, and who they serve.•   The transition from military life to entrepreneurship and leadership roles.•   Reasons that vision-casting is so important in both life and business.•   Advice for overcoming the fear that often accompanies “starting something.” Quotes:“We have this calling – from God, saying, ‘Now that you’ve been blessed, it’s time for you to go share this blessing with other people.’ That’s where it started.” — Mary Elaine Baker “Once we started – seeing the fruits of [our] labor and seeing the impact we could make, we just wanted to do more – It kept motivating us to push further, not to build a business that makes a huge profit but to build a business that makes a huge impact on people.” — Brett Baker “Each one of us is born with God-given gifts. We’re meant to discover what they are and use them not for personal gain but in order to serve and help others.” — Mary Elaine Baker “At some point, [you] have to sit down and say, ‘What do I want out of this life? What is the impact that I want to make?’ Then, go out there and try to create that for yourself.” — Brett Baker Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:VAUSABrett Baker on LinkedInMary Elaine Baker on LinkedInMary Elaine Baker on InstagramEntrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)Rocket FuelHow to Be a Great BossTractionWild at HeartWarrior KidJohn MaxwellLeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

From military precision to civilian construction, today’s guest offers a powerful blueprint for transformative leadership. Pete Anzovino recently joined MCFA after retiring from the US Army, coming to us through the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program. This program helps former service members and veterans transition into fulfilling careers in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.  In this episode, Pete shares how the SkillBridge Program eased his transition and highlighted the surprising parallels between military operations and project management. He discussed the benefits of certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP) to lessons on navigating multiple stakeholders and maintaining clear communication. Pete provides invaluable insights on leveraging military experience in new, impactful ways.  Whether you’re a veteran or simply curious about project leadership, this episode is full of practical guidance and actionable advice for making a meaningful transition! To discover how to lead with purpose, manage with precision, and create impact in any field, tune in today! Key Points From This Episode:•   Key similarities between military roles and project management in construction.•   Insight into SkillBridge and Hiring Our Heroes, assisting veterans in entering civilian careers.•   The importance of certifications like OSHA-30, ESP, and PMP in the transition process.•   Leadership lessons from the military that apply to managing projects, people, and teams. Quotes:“The skills that we use as military officers, whether you're an engineer, [infantry officer, or an armor officer], everything you're doing relates to project management. You're managing people, time, funds, resources in general to accomplish a mission.” — Pete Anzovino  “When we were going through the [SkillBridge] program, whether we ended up employed with MCFA or not, – [it] was a great opportunity to gain exposure to industry but also walk away with three certifications that – would look great on a resume.” — Pete Anzovino “Do the best you can with what you have right now.” — Pete Anzovino  “If you're in a [SkillBridge program], definitely leverage your fellow SkillBridge fellows because everyone's having a different experience and you can learn something from everybody.” — Pete Anzovino Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Pete Anzovino on LinkedInDoD SkillBridgeHiring Our HeroesOSHA 30-Hour TrainingEnvision Sustainability Professional (ESP) TrainingProject Management Professional (PMP) TrainingThe Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of LivingRyan HolidayShoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKELeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn 

Being coached in leadership is one thing, but without actionable steps to turn those lessons into reality, that coaching becomes redundant. Welcome back to our rebranded podcast, Leadership Blueprints! Today we are very excited to introduce Wally Adamchik, former US marine, President of Firestarter Consulting, and leadership coach.  He joins us to discuss all things leadership! Tuning in, you’ll hear all about Wally’s career, what inspired him to become a leadership coach, what Firestarter Consulting does, who their target audience is, and so much more! We delve into some of the issues in the construction industry before Wally shares what he thinks makes for a great workplace.  He even talks us through some of the action steps he teaches his clients in his leadership courses; including the histories, heroes, heartaches, and hopes exercise. Finally, Wally shares his favorite quotes and books and tells us who his dream dinner guests would be. Thanks for listening in!  Key Points From This Episode:•   What led Wally to do what he does today and what Firestarter Consulting does. •   How Wally approaches the problems in the construction industry as a leader. •   The histories, heroes, heartaches, and hopes exercise Wally teaches.  Quotes:“What is a great place to work? Well, it’s trust, pride, and camaraderie.” — Wally Adamchik “You can tell me what your values are but you can’t tell me why your values are. And until you can tell me why your values are, you don’t have a solid foundation. And if you don’t have a solid foundation – you will not have stability.” — Wally Adamchik “Self-awareness – may take you to some dark places, it may take you to some scary places within you but it’s worth it because you come out better on the other side.” — Wally Adamchik Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Wally Adamchik on LinkedInWally Adamchik on XWally Adamchik on InstagramFirestarter Speaking and ConsultingConstruction LeadershipThe Lost Art of Listening Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff… And It's All Small StuffLeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn 

Joining BJ on the debut episode of our newly rebranded podcast, Leadership Blueprints, formerly Inspiring People & Places, is Katie Kilker, Senior Project Director for Federal Facilities in the Engineering, Design, and Infrastructure Group at AtkinsRéalis. In honor of November's Veteran Salute, DOD to AEC, we’re spotlighting Katie’s recent transition from active duty in the Air Force to her current role in the built environment.  Tune in to hear Katie discuss her journey to the Air Force, her formative experiences, what an Air Force career can look like, and her role at AtkinsRéalis. She also shares insights from “taking off the Colonel Kilker uniform” and stepping into civilian life, key elements for a smooth and successful transition, and valuable resources for those planning to transition.  Don’t miss the first episode under our new name, enjoy! Key Points From This Episode:•   Where her career started and how she ended up in the Air Force.•   What started the process of transitioning out of active duty. •   How she started her transition early and figured out her must-haves and no-compromises. •   Key elements to a successful transition and her experience so far.  Quotes:“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Start your [transition] plan early, be inquisitive, and learn about what you want to do and don’t just feel like you need to do what other people want you to do.” — Katie Kilker  “Being a leader, you kind of need to be extroverted for people to see who you are. You can’t just hide in the shadows, assess, and write notes and stuff.” — Katie Kilker “Civilians — are the bedrock of the Air Force.” — Katie Kilker  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Katie Kilker on LinkedInAtkinsRéalisSAME Career Transition WorkshopGeorgia TechBeale Air Force BaseThe COMMIT FoundationGetting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity Military Retirement on Google PlayMilitary Retirement on Apple iStoreAmerican Corporate PartnersTheodore Roosevelt QuoteDaring GreatlyDrop the Ball: Achieving More by Doing LessDesigning Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful LifeLeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn