From Peru to Building Global Infrastructure: Jorge Quiroz’s Journey

In this episode of the Matthew Byrd Podcast, we sit down with Jorge Quiroz, Founder & CEO of PDBM Consulting, to explore an extraordinary journey that spans architecture, technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership. From growing up in Peru and struggling with hand drafting, to discovering AutoCAD, helping shape BIM standards for the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, and ultimately launching his own consulting firm, Jorge shares the lessons, failures, and values that shaped his career. This conversation goes far beyond software. We dive deep into: How BIM and digital twins actually create value for owners Why standards matter more than tools The real challenges of technology adoption and change management What digital twins mean across design, construction, and operations The future of AI, IoT, robotics, and predictive maintenance Entrepreneurship, risk, and building a company with integrity Leadership, kindness, and doing the right thing — even when it’s hard Jorge offers rare insight from decades of experience working with some of the most complex infrastructure projects in the world, including major airport redevelopment programs. He also shares deeply personal stories that shaped his leadership philosophy and why passion, empathy, and people will always matter more than technology alone. Whether you’re an owner, engineer, contractor, technologist, or early-career professional, this episode will challenge how you think about innovation, success, and the impact of your work. 🎧 If you’re passionate about the future of the built world — this episode is for you. CHAPTERS 00:00 Passion, Purpose & Introducing Jorge Quiroz 01:00 Why Passion Matters in Your Career 02:05 Jorge’s Current Role & BIM Implementation Overview 03:00 Early Career: Studying Architecture in Peru 04:10 Discovering AutoCAD & Falling in Love with Technology 06:10 Hand Drafting vs. Digital Design (Early Tech Adoption) 07:00 Starting a CAD Business in Peru 08:00 Moving to New York & Early Career Struggles 09:10 First Job in the U.S. & Learning Industry Language 10:10 Working with the Port Authority of NY & NJ 11:15 Developing BIM Standards for Large Infrastructure Projects 13:00 Owner-Driven BIM & Long-Term Asset Thinking 14:10 Airports as a Core Area of Expertise 15:00 The Decision to Start PDBM Consulting 16:30 Entrepreneurship, Risk & Family Support 18:00 Passion as a Driver for Business Success 21:00 Work-Life Balance as a Founder 23:00 Building Trust & Flexibility with Teams 26:00 Hiring, Scaling & Lessons from Past Failures 28:00 Major Projects: Newark Airport & Miami International Airport 33:00 Why BIM Standards Matter for Owners 35:00 Owners Receiving Models — But Not Using Them 36:00 Defining Digital Twins (Design, Construction & Operations) 40:00 Digital Twins for Operations & Maintenance 44:00 ROI, Cost Savings & Predictability in Projects 47:00 Challenges of Keeping Digital Twins Updated 49:00 Scaling BIM: People Over Software 53:00 Change Management & Finding BIM Champions 56:00 Standing Out as an Innovator in Your Career 58:00 The Future: AI, IoT, Robotics & Digital Twins 01:03:00 Will AI Replace Jobs in BIM & Construction? 01:08:00 Advice for Young Professionals 01:10:00 Legacy, Leadership & Doing the Right Thing 01:12:00 A Childhood Story About Kindness & Values 01:15:00 Final Thoughts & Closing