Developing Designers

Send us Fan MailArchitects and engineers think differently — and that’s a good thing.In this episode of Developing Designers, we explore how engineers evaluate a design the moment they see it — from mechanical room location and ceiling space to glass walls and structural constraints.We discuss:What engineers look at first in a building layoutWhy ceiling height is never “just ceiling height”Common misunderstandings between architects and engineersWhy early communication in schematic design mattersMentoring young engineers to speak upLessons learned from construction when you don’t push hard enoughIf you’re part of a design team, this episode will help you collaborate more effectively — and avoid costly mistakes.

Send us Fan MailWhat’s it really like going from college to your first real project — inside a fully integrated architecture & engineering firm?In this episode of Developing Designers, Brooke shares her experience as a mechanical engineer three years into her career — from feeling intimidated at 21 to confidently coordinating across disciplines in a pod-style environment.We discuss:The jump from theory to real-world HVAC designLearning on the job without having taken HVAC in schoolHow pod culture accelerates growthThe power of in-person communicationCoordination between mechanical, electrical, structural, and plumbingLessons learned from real project stressWhy culture matters more than remote convenienceIf you’re a student, emerging engineer, or firm leader thinking about team structure — this episode is for you.🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at:https://eapc.net/podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Developing Designers, Jim sits down with EAPC’s Director of Design Process to talk about something every young designer eventually faces — the reality of construction.From the “4-inch rule” to reviewing shop drawings that saved a project from a costly mistake, this conversation dives into:Why constructability matters more than you thinkThe importance of documentation and note-takingHow to handle conflict on-site without guessingWhat contractors actually respect in a designerWhy internships in construction can change your careerIf you're early in your architecture or engineering career — or mentoring someone who is — this episode is packed with practical wisdom you can apply immediately.🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at:https://eapc.net/podcast

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a young architect is thrown straight into real responsibility — before they feel ready?In this episode of Developing Designers, we talk with Chase Moser, a recent architecture graduate just a few years into his career, about learning architecture the real way: by doing. From being handed unexpected responsibility on a construction site to managing real projects, Chase shares what it’s actually like to transition from school into professional practice.This conversation dives into the reality of learning on the job, navigating construction challenges, asking questions (even when it feels uncomfortable), and growing confidence through real-world experience.We cover:The shock of moving from architecture school to practiceWhy school doesn’t fully prepare you for real deadlines, budgets, and constructionBeing “thrown into the fire” on a construction management roleLearning to work with contractors and solve problems in real timeTaking on your first major project and growing responsibilityAdapting to client changes and project challengesBalancing licensure, work, and major life changesAdvice for students and recent grads entering the professionThis episode is perfect for architecture students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals wondering what the first few years really look like — and why saying “yes” to opportunity matters.🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at:https://eapc.net/podcast

Send us Fan MailWhat does real mentorship in architecture actually look like — and why does it matter so much?In this episode of Developing Designers, host Jim Tyler sits down with Whitney Burgess, an architect at EAPC and an architecture studio instructor at North Dakota State University, to explore mentorship from both the academic and professional perspectives.Whitney shares why mentorship goes far beyond management, how understanding personality types helps young designers flourish, and why allowing people to fail — safely — is essential for long-term growth. From mentoring students in studio to guiding young professionals in a firm, this conversation highlights how strong mentorship builds confidence, leadership, and better design teams.We cover:The difference between mentorship and managementWhy mentorship is critical in both school and practiceAdapting mentorship to different personalities and learning stylesLetting young designers fail — and why it’s necessaryHow mentorship helps bridge the gap between interns and senior staffAdvice for students and young professionals on seeking mentorshipHow mentoring others shapes stronger leadersWhether you’re a student, recent graduate, or seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable insight into how mentorship shapes careers — and firms.🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at:https://eapc.net/podcast

Send us Fan MailWhat really happens when architecture school ends and real work begins?In this episode of Developing Designers, we sit down with Izzy, a recent architecture graduate, to talk candidly about the transition from academia to professional practice. From navigating architecture school during COVID to being thrown into real design work earlier than expected, Izzy shares what surprised her most, what school didn’t fully prepare her for, and what helped her grow in her first year and a half at a firm.We cover:How COVID changed the architecture school experienceThe reality of mentorship, studio culture, and working remotelyWhat your first year at a firm actually looks likeWhy soft skills matter just as much as design skillsHandling critiques, client feedback, and public backlashTime management, workload balance, and knowing when to speak upAdvice Izzy wishes she had heard as a studentThis episode is a must-listen for architecture students, recent grads, and early-career designers trying to bridge the gap between school and practice.🎧 Listen to the full episode and explore more at:https://eapc.net/podcast

Send us Fan MailWhat makes an intern stand out—and how young professionals can transition from student to full-time team member.

Send us Fan MailWhat it’s like to step into the A/E world for the first time—and what you learn fast.

Send us Fan MailGet to know your hosts Phil Stahl and Jim Tyler, two voices bringing experience, perspective, and a healthy dose of honesty to the mic. Together, they introduce the vision behind the EAPC Podcast: a space designed to support and guide young professionals in architecture and engineering as they navigate the real-world challenges of building a meaningful career.From design dilemmas and communication hurdles to culture clashes and creative burnout—we’re not shying away from the hard stuff. Through candid conversations and shared experiences, Phil and Jim offer a fresh take on what it really means to grow, lead, and thrive in today’s A/E world.Because every great designer needs more than just talent—they need support, strategy, and a place to talk about it.