JENNIFER CASTENSON: AEC Q&A Spotlight
Carl Moss
Owner FIXEDD.CO.UK | AEC Advocate | Curator of AEC Q&A Newsletter
January 8, 2025
🎙 Although we are a small voice in the vast AEC industry, we’re committed to amplifying valuable insights from a diverse range of voices. As we work to bring our readership quality perspectives from experienced AEC influencers, we’re especially focused on highlighting and celebrating diversity within the field. With that in mind, we are excited to kick off our Q&A series with Jennifer, a dynamic leader whose contributions have made a meaningful impact on the industry. Stay connected and inspired by the latest industry insights – subscribe to our newsletter and be part of the conversation!
Now, In this inaugural edition, Jennifer shares her experiences and insights, setting the tone for what will be a rich, ongoing conversation aimed at advocating inclusivity, inspiring innovation, and connecting professionals from all backgrounds. This bi-monthly series will continue to bring forward diverse perspectives, making sure we hear from voices that reflect the true breadth of talent within our community.
Following Jennifer’s feature, we also bring you some of the top AEC stories shaping the industry today.
Jennifer Castenson currently serves as the vice president of public relations at Buildxact. In this role, she develops communication strategies for the organization’s thought leadership across the various verticals involved in custom homebuilding and remodeling and the industry stakeholders involved. Previously, Castenson served as the vice president of programming at national media and data group Zonda. Castenson also serves as contributing writer to Forbes, reporting on innovative solutions in the built environment.
Currently, she serves on the environmental issues committee for NAHB and the heads a working group on housing attainability with NAHB’s Leading Suppliers Council. She also is a board member for the Home Improvement Research Institute, and the construction robotics startup Framebotix. She is also part of the ESG Working Group to define and implement industry ESG improvements.
Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge and a forward-thinking approach to the AEC industry. Her expertise spans communication strategies, housing attainability, and sustainable innovation. In this Q&A, Jennifer shares her unique perspectives on industry trends, challenges, and opportunities for growth.
Let’s explore Jennifer’s thoughts as we ask her six core questions in this AEC Spotlight feature.
1. Q: What do you see as the biggest challenge currently facing the AEC industry, and how can we address it?
A: There are so many challenges. If I was able to identify the biggest one, then we could solve the housing crisis. I wish that was a possibility! The biggest challenge I recognize facing AEC is the handicaps that the legacy relationships create. The industry operates on beliefs that each stakeholder has only one specific role in the process and therefore limits the potential of each stakeholder. These strict roles limit the capacity to be creative, to be innovative. Individuals don’t want to step on the toes of each other and so don’t suggest things that could drive efficiencies or productivity gains.
2. Q: How has BIM evolved during your career, and what future advancements are you most excited about?
A: I think BIM is a great representation of the inability of the industry to adopt new technology. I remember decades ago being excited about BIM and trying to drive it forward within my organization to get our product specified easier. At the time, it wasn’t embraced because other products weren’t adopting BIM and developers and architects needed consistency across the project. Twenty years later, there seems to be more traction, but traction when BIM will be a secondary part of using AI design. The technology evolved faster than this one element, which I would assume will become obsolete.
3. Q: Which technology (e.g., AI, VR, IoT, drones) has most transformed AEC workflows, and why?
A: I think that VR is forcing more collaboration earlier in the design process and has the most potential to drive efficiencies and productivity gains. It will also integrate with other technologies to drive additional efficiencies and improvements. Being able to envision a project prior to construction opens the door to so many possibilities for productivity, innovation, better performance, etc.
4. Q: Sustainability and green building practices are becoming a major focus. How do you see these trends influencing the industry in the coming years?
A: Green building will be a foundational design practice moving forward for healthier living, lowering energy use, and resiliency best practices. There will be no other way.
5. Q: How do you think collaboration within the AEC sector can be improved to enhance project outcomes?
A: I think the technologies we discussed will drive more collaboration. Without those technologies, AEC stakeholders will work in silos, there will be less transparency, less trust.
6. Q: How can the AEC industry support diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially for women and underrepresented groups?
A: Encouraging diversity, equity and inclusion in the field starts within a home. Parents and schools need to start referring to the industry as a smart career choice. Then, working with the universities to develop attractive study programs and recruiting students into the field. Finally, I think that most companies have policies in place but it’s not as much about the policies as just seeking merit based talent and avoiding cronyism.
Personal Perspective
7. Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in the AEC industry, and how has your journey evolved?
A: I didn’t pursue a career in AEC, I fell into it and then joined different types of companies in the industry – from media to software to building product manufacturer to developer.
8. Q: Can you share a memorable project or accomplishment that had a significant impact on your career?
A: Launching HIVE (Housing Innovation Vision Economics) while I was at Zonda was pivotal for me. It gave me exposure to some of the brightest and most influential players in the housing space, along with exposure to their solutions and how they perceived the challenges. Fortunately, I continue to learn from all of them on a daily basis.
9. Q: What qualities do you think are essential for effective leadership in the AEC industry?
A: It’s the same as leadership in other industries – humility, authenticity, curiosity, good communication skills, and empathy.
The Human Element
10. Q: Can you share a moment of panic or failure from your early career and what you learned from it?
A: If I covered moments of panic and failure, it would be a list too long to share. I hope I can continue making mistakes, failing frequently and reinventing to improve myself and my work. I can only hope that I have the support around me to help me learn from those mistakes and guide me as much as possible.
Final Thoughts
11. Q: What advice would you give to emerging professionals in the AEC field who are eager to make their mark?
A: I love young ambition. It’s important for long time leaders to recognize and embrace it. And it’s important for those emerging professionals to look for support, guidance and to have patience to take measured, strategic steps forward in their careers.
12. Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share about your work, your journey, or your vision for the future of AEC?
A: We all need to listen and learn more. I would love to have the opportunity to learn from all the innovators pitching new ideas and trying to disrupt the legacy practices that are holding our industry back.
A Special Thank You to Our Esteemed Guest, Jennifer Castenson
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jennifer Castenson for sharing her invaluable insights in this inaugural Q&A feature. Her expertise and forward-thinking approach are truly inspiring.
To stay connected with Jennifer and explore her work further, check out the following links:
Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jennifercastenson/?sh=40d4f2c84400
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-castenson-a650801/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/patitzj
Top AEC News Stories
As the world of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction continues to evolve at an impressive pace, staying informed is key. In this section, we bring you the latest headlines from fixedd.co.uk—highlighting the groundbreaking developments, innovative projects, and key industry shifts that are making waves in AEC today. Get ready to explore the stories that are setting the stage for tomorrow’s built environment!
- CBRE Completes Turner & Townsend Acquisition Jan 7, 2025 US commercial estate agent CBRE has completed its plan to envelop UK construction consultant Turner & Townsend.
- Virginia to Get World’s First Commercial Fusion Power Plant Jan 6, 2025 Commonwealth Fusion Systems will build the multibillion-dollar project in Chesterfield County.
- Team Selected for $7B Austin Light Rail Project Jan 6, 2025 AECOM, Parsons, and STV will design and construct Texas city’s new all-electric transit system.
- China Green-Lights World’s Biggest Dam in Tibet Jan 6, 2025 China approved plans for the world’s largest hydropower dam, sparking international attention.
- Top 10 Innovative Construction Materials Shaping the Future Jan 6, 2025 A look at sustainable and energy-efficient materials revolutionizing the building industry.
- 6,000-Tonne Box Pulled Under Radlett Railway Line Jan 7, 2025 VolkerFitzpatrick’s team completed this impressive engineering feat at Segro Logistics Park.
- Worker Killed by Falling Glass Panel in Hong Kong Jan 6, 2025 A tragic accident highlights safety concerns for curtain-wall installation.
- Digital Construction Awards 2025: Two Months Left to Enter Jan 6, 2025 The industry’s prestigious awards are open for entries, with a deadline looming.
- Plans in for 44-Storey Manchester Residential Tower Jan 6, 2025 Glenbrook proposes a striking addition to Manchester’s skyline with this ambitious project.
- Protests Continue in Serbia After Fatal Station Collapse Jan 6, 2025 Daily protests demand accountability following the collapse of a concrete awning in Belgrade.
“Marvels of Modern Construction: Celebrating Iconic Structures”
From ancient wonders to contemporary breakthroughs, the built environment is a testament to human ingenuity and ambition. This month, we introduce our “Structures of the Month” feature, highlighting ten extraordinary feats of engineering, architecture, and construction. These iconic landmarks not only inspire awe but also push the boundaries of what’s possible in design and innovation.
Let’s celebrate the visionaries and builders behind these global marvels!
1. Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE
The Pinnacle of Engineering Excellence The tallest building in the world stands at 828 meters, showcasing groundbreaking engineering and architectural innovation. Designed by Adrian Smith and built by SOM, the Burj Khalifa combines modern aesthetics with advanced sustainability features.
AEC Quick Quiz: Innovation in Construction
As we wrap up this month’s NEW LOOK newsletter, it’s time for a little fun with our AEC Quick Quiz! 🚀
Test your knowledge on the latest advancements and trends that are shaping the future of the AEC industry. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting to explore the exciting world of construction, this quiz will challenge your understanding and keep you on your toes. Ready to put your expertise to the test? Let’s dive in! 🤿
Quiz Question: Which of the following is a primary advantage of using prefabrication techniques in construction? 🤔
A) Faster project delivery times
B) Improved quality control
C) Reduced on-site labor requirements
D) All of the above
ANSWER at the bottom of the page 👇🏽
Stay tuned for more insights and trends in the AEC industry! If you enjoyed this newsletter, give it a LIKE đź‘Ť and SHARE ♻️ to keep the conversation going. Thank you for being part of the FIXEDD community until next time….
Best regards,