One of Felipe’s initial projects was the Highway 401 Expansion from the Credit River to Regional Road 25 in Mississauga, Ontario. Beyond highway improvements, this design-build-finance project also included the complex Highway 401/407 interchange, connecting two major Ontario roadways and the future Highway 413 corridor. He was involved in early preliminary design, progressed as a core member of the owner’s engineer/technical advisor team, and continued through construction and operation. This experience enabled him to advance a major project from early planning through construction and implementation. As residents of Mississauga, Felipe and his family directly benefit from the community improvements resulting from the engineering, environmental consultation and construction on this project.

Tell us about a project that has been a major highlight of your career. How is it delivering a better world?

While working on Highway 401 was a significant step in my career and offered tremendous learning, I recently served as the Deputy Project Manager and Highway Engineer on the Highway 413 Corridor Route Planning Study. This project has given me the opportunity to advance new infrastructure in the Greater Toronto Area. Highway 413 is a new transportation corridor northwest of the City of Toronto being delivered by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) to relieve congestion on major highways and improve mobility for those who live and work in the region.

This highway program includes 59 kilometers of new highway infrastructure, including 52 kilometers on Highway 413 and two extensions to nearby Highways 410 and 427. It will provide expanded highway capacity, improved connections between major highways and numerous interchanges — significantly reducing travel times for drivers in nearby regions while enabling better connections between communities. The project also includes active transportation features and potential for future transit.

As Deputy Project Manager and Highway Engineer, I was heavily involved in project management and design, including coordination across multi-disciplinary teams. The design of this corridor is extensive. It includes four freeway-to-freeway and 14 arterial interchanges, over 20 roadway underpasses and overpasses, crossings over the Credit River and the Humber River, numerous watercourse crossings and culverts. Protection for a transitway adjacent to the corridor, including stations and carpool lots, was also considered.

Our team worked proactively with MTO to integrate design standard updates and to reflect stakeholder input from municipalities, conservation authorities and major utilities on key design elements. As part of this large-scale project, we also assisted MTO in identifying corridor segments suitable for early works that could be fast-tracked to detailed design and construction.

To inform the next phase of the project, I was also heavily involved in developing a design and construction phasing strategy, allowing MTO to advance the procurement of the Highway 410 Extension from Mayfield Road to Hurontario Street in the City of Brampton.

What key challenge did you and your team face on this project? How did you solve it?

A key challenge on a publicly visible project of this magnitude is collecting and responding to input on design elements from surrounding municipalities and key stakeholders across the entire corridor. What’s more, our project team faced emerging geopolitical and regulatory issues, design standard updates, changes in traffic demand, and other concerns that shaped stakeholder input as our work evolved. Through an extensive consultation program delivered in collaboration with MTO, we conducted multiple meetings, workshops, working groups, public information sessions and other communication tactics to facilitate input and feedback. These produced insights into future road improvements, active transportation elements, road servicing, utilities management, future growth strategies and ongoing project coordination.

The early phasing work we completed also helped MTO understand and anticipate potential challenges that might arise along the corridor over the next five, 10 or 15 years. Similarly, it allowed them to identify corridor segments that could be advanced in collaboration with stakeholders to expedite construction, avoid costly temporary works and prevent schedule delays. Beyond stakeholder engagement, we worked with MTO to conduct workshops focused on cost and schedule risk assessment, value engineering and constructability to identify critical risks and develop effective mitigation strategies.

By establishing these dynamic and responsive feedback channels, we maintained consistent interaction and fostered trusted relationships where municipalities and other stakeholders felt heard and understood.

How has this experience shaped your approach to future work and expanded your career at ArchTam? What lessons did you learn?

On Highway 413, we effectively incorporated feedback into a preliminary design that aligned with MTO’s vision while respecting stakeholder input. By overcoming numerous technical challenges, evolving landscapes and varying conditions across the project, we learned lessons that will help me anticipate and mitigate challenges on future projects of similar scope and size. For example, during the study, local municipalities were updating their Transportation Master Plans and Official Plans. Given the Highway 413 corridor spans more than 10 municipalities and regions, consultation and review of the plans with stakeholders was critical for them to clearly understand land use changes and impacts of the freeway on local interchanges and road crossings. This allowed MTO to set the baseline for future legal agreements with these municipalities and regions around their road networks and active transportation needs.

The release of updated MTO design standards also meant our design team had to review the entire corridor and update geometrics to meet or exceed these enhanced design requirements. This resulted in a multi-disciplinary review of the corridor, including drainage, environmental, structural and other key elements. We completed this work within a short timeframe and presented a modified design that met MTO’s latest guidelines and standards while still aligning with MTO’s overall project vision.  

Working on this project allowed me to truly understand the positive outcomes achieved through early engagement and transparency with municipalities, conservation authorities, utilities, rail operators, transit agencies and others impacted by a major new highway build. As the Highway 413 project progresses to its next phase, those trusted relationships forged with key stakeholders across the highway corridor will help the project advance in a cost-effective, responsible and sustainable manner.

Want to learn more about the Highway 413 project and how it will positively impact Ontario?

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Ameet leads our residential sector across the UK&I, collaborating with teams in project management, cost management, engineering and sustainability to deliver a wide range of residential projects that truly make a difference. Working with our clients across a range of residential asset classes, including housing, strategic land, later living, student accommodation, open market, build to rent, co-living, affordable, social, urban regeneration and city centre high-rise towers, his focus is on creating places that are practical, sustainable and built to last.

With over 15 years of experience in the construction industry, Ameet has led major residential and regeneration projects from concept to completion. His leadership approach combines commercial understanding with a strong commitment to quality, teamwork and doing things the right way, values he sees as essential to shaping the future of housing delivery.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

I grew up in a thriving region where development and opportunity were part of everyday life.  From an early age, I was fascinated by how cities grow and evolve. That curiosity was fuelled further through international travel — visiting New York, San Francisco and Hong Kong — and gave me firsthand insight into how ambitious construction and planning can transform communities. Those experiences inspired my ambition to be part of shaping the built environment.

Academically, I had strengths in both numbers and literature. This naturally led me toward quantity surveying, contracts and procurement, disciplines that blend structure, logic and communication. Over time, that evolved into a passion for project management and delivering complex, multidisciplinary projects that bring teams together to achieve shared goals.

I’ve always felt a strong connection to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the professionalism it represents. I take pride in upholding traditional values of accuracy, integrity and accountability. For me, success is as much about how we deliver projects as what we deliver.

What are the biggest issues currently facing the residential sector?

The residential sector continues to face a series of evolving pressures that affect both project viability and delivery.

Viability remains a key consideration, shaped by the cost of finance and rising labour, material and plant costs. Together, these influence scheme viability and investment confidence, particularly in higher-cost markets.

Planning processes also continue to extend project timelines, requiring early coordination and realistic programming to maintain momentum. In addition, the implementation of the Building Safety Act has introduced new stages and requirements that form an important part of ensuring safe design and construction. While essential for compliance, these processes, including updated design measures such as second staircases and Gateway 2 reviews, can add time to project programmes and require proactive management across all parties.

Another key factor is the skills shortage across the UK construction industry, which continues to impact delivery capacity. This has encouraged the sector to think more innovatively about how we design and build, exploring new methods to increase efficiency, consistency and quality. I have been involved in several projects adopting modern methods of construction, which not only help to address resource challenges but also drive improved sustainability outcomes and predictability in delivery. By constantly challenging design and embracing innovation, we can unlock real value for clients and create more resilient project models for the future.

Finally, sustainability continues to drive change. Clients and developers are setting ambitious goals around carbon reduction, circular economy principles and social value. Balancing these aspirations with cost and delivery pressures requires innovation, collaboration and strong technical leadership across every stage of development.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work on a range of projects that have brought lasting benefit to local communities, from housing and regeneration to specialist living and even the London 2012 Olympics, which has left a distinct legacy.

A particular area I’m passionate about is later living, having delivered several large retirement village developments designed to connect senior residents to their local communities through place, amenities and shared outdoor spaces. These projects provide environments where people can live independently while remaining active, engaged and connected to others, something that has a real social impact beyond the buildings themselves.

I’ve also been involved in several student accommodation campus and apartment build to rent projects, which have helped define a new generation of living. By integrating amenities such as music studios, cafés, shared lounges and landscaped public realm, these developments have created communities and enhanced the student and professional experience.

Most recently, I’ve worked on the Smithfield Birmingham masterplan with Lendlease, a landmark regeneration project at the heart of the city. Achieving planning consent for this major scheme was a significant milestone, paving the way to transform underused land into a vibrant, mixed-use neighbourhood. With construction now progressing into the build-out phases, it’s exciting to see that vision becoming a reality.

Across all these projects, the unifying theme is collaboration, working with clients, local authorities and residents to deliver places that have a positive and enduring impact on people’s lives.

Share a piece of career advice.

My advice to anyone in this industry is to stay engaged, open-minded and reflective. Every project, conversation or client interaction offers a chance to learn something new. Even the small moments can teach you how to communicate, adapt or solve problems more effectively.

Seek out hands-on experience early in your career. Spending time on site builds a real understanding of how projects are delivered and gives you confidence in your decision making.

Take every opportunity to gain early exposure and learn from senior professionals. Sit alongside partners and directors, observe how they think, lead and build relationships. Those lessons in judgement and communication are invaluable.

Take pride in your work, whatever the task may be. The quality of your outputs, from reports to presentations, reflects your professionalism. Always take a client-first approach, pausing to understand the world from their perspective.

Equally important is developing strong people skills. You’ll work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and cultures, both locally and internationally. Being able to connect, communicate and collaborate effectively is at the heart of successful project delivery.

And above all, enjoy what you do. When you’re genuinely passionate about your work, that enthusiasm shines through in the outcomes you deliver and the teams you lead. Passion is what sustains a career in construction and what makes it so rewarding.

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Riyaz Sheikh, P.Eng., is a professional engineer and senior project manager with 18 years of experience in transportation infrastructure. He spent seven years with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO), where he contributed to MTO’s Planning and Preliminary Design Process Guidelines, which continue to drive innovation across landmark projects. Riyaz has led major highway projects across Ontario using various delivery models, including feasibility, planning, preliminary design, detail design, design-build, technical advisory, alternative finance and procurement projects. His expertise is also extensive in constructability, stakeholder / third party management, value engineering, risk management, and utility relocations. He is also a certified project manager through ArchTam’s program, which is recognized by the Project Management Institute.

In addition to his design portfolio, Riyaz has experience in construction inspection, construction contract administration, and value engineering.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

My passion for shaping infrastructure and delivering strategic projects is what drew me to the transportation industry. Growing up, I was inspired by how transportation networks shape lives in one form or another, whether that’s by connecting communities, supporting economic development, or enhancing quality of life.

Throughout my career, I have been motivated by the opportunity to lead complex, multi-disciplinary projects that address today’s mobility challenges through innovative solutions, while also creating lasting value for future generations. Joining this industry allows me to combine my technical expertise with a broader vision for sustainable, resilient infrastructure, aligned with ArchTam’s values.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

This is a tough one as I have had the opportunity work on so many meaningful projects at ArchTam. One that stands out is my leadership role as Deputy Project Manager, leading the delivery of the Bradford Bypass Preliminary Design and the West CMGC Detail Design, two of Ontario’s highest priority transportation projects.

The Bradford Bypass is a new controlled access freeway between Highway 400 and Highway 404 in the northern Greater Toronto Area of the Canadian province of Ontario, designed to ease the growing traffic congestion in Simcoe County and York Region, while supporting economic development across the Greater Golden Horseshoe. There are proposed full and partial interchanges, as well as grade separated crossings at intersecting municipal roads and watercourses, including the Holland River and Holland River East Branch, which are complex, lengthy multi-span structures spanning over 550 and 700m in length, respectively. The freeway will facilitate a staged approach in sections with an interim four-lane configuration and an ultimate eight lane design for the Bradford Bypass.

This project brings together the very reasons I became an engineer: solving complex challenges, working collaboratively across different engineering disciplines, and delivering real benefits to the public. Some of the key challenges were not only technical, but also had other components such as engagement, risk and schedule management, and environmental facets that were just as critical to the outcome of this project.

One of the major hurdles on the Bradford Bypass was to lead and navigate the shift from the long standing MTO Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) process to the new requirements under Ontario Regulation 697/21 with a very aggressive project schedule. The original project approvals were rooted in the Class EA framework from the late 1990’s, but regulatory changes meant that we had to essentially modernize and re-evaluate the project through a project specific environmental process. There were no previous examples to draw from as this project would serve as a precedence and pioneer for establishing the framework for projects moving forward. This required updating previously completed technical work, carrying out new environmental studies, re-engaging with Indigenous communities and stakeholders, and aligning with today’s higher standards for environmental protection, consultation, and documentation. While challenging, this transition allowed the project to meet current legislative requirements and provided a stronger, more defensible foundation for design and future construction. In addition, the transition to Ontario Regulation 697/21 also gave us an opportunity to engage more meaningfully with Indigenous communities. Through expanded consultation, we were able to build stronger relationships, listen more closely to community priorities, and incorporate their feedback into the project planning. This process not only strengthened trust but also left a positive impression, creating a foundation for ongoing collaboration and mutual respect as the project moves forward.

The Bradford Bypass West CMGC Detail Design is being delivered on a compressed 20-month schedule, with two early works contracts (2024 and 2025) followed by a final contract in 2026. This approach required closer collaboration with the CMGC contractor, conducting due diligence to confirm that design decisions were constructible, cost-effective, and properly sequenced. At the same time, our team must manage very complex staging along Highway 400, working around the active Highway 400/88 Interchange project while also advancing innovative solutions such as segmental structures for the freeway-to-freeway interchange. Despite these challenges, both early works packages were delivered on time, keeping the project firmly on track for major construction in 2026.

Equally important, the CMGC model has fostered a strong partnership between MTO, the CM, and ArchTam. In an industry where designers, contractors, and owners often work in silos, this collaborative approach-built trust, streamlined decision making, and reduced project risks. The result is not only continuing to be a technically successful project, but also a new model for how complex infrastructure can be delivered when all partners are aligned behind the same goals.

While this project is technically demanding, it reinforces why I became a technical professional. It’s a clear example of how thoughtful planning, strong partnerships and technical excellence can result in lasting improvements to safety, mobility and quality of life. Seeing how careful planning and engagement can create lasting, positive change is exactly what continues to drive my passion for this field.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Well planned transportation systems do more than just move vehicles; they improve how people live by reducing congestion, shortening travel times to and from work, school and essential services, and making travel safer and more reliable. Through direct engagement, whether in consultations, public information centres (PIC), or face-to-face interactions, I have had the opportunity to connect with a wide range of individuals, including members of the public, stakeholder groups and Indigenous communities.

A memorable example is the Class EA and Preliminary Design for the QEW/Glendale Interchange Improvements, which featured Ontario’s first Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI). We held two PIC’s and also presented at a passionate town hall with more than 1,000 people in attendance. The community was close knit, with many older residents, businesses, and a heavy reliance on tourism, so there was understandable concern about how the new interchange, service roads, and accesses would affect daily life and local businesses.

By listening carefully to those concerns, we refined the design to minimize closures during construction, simplify navigation, and support tourism by improving traffic flows. Key changes included larger skews for the DDI, wider lane widths, enhanced signage, consistent treatments at nearby intersections, and large-scale visual plans to help the public clearly understand the changes. We also created space for a future Ontario Tourism Information Centre and facilitated better access to local businesses, including Canada’s largest open-air shopping centre. The response from the community was extremely positive, and their continued support throughout the project reflected the trust and confidence we were able to build together.

These interactions have given me a deeper understanding of the diverse challenges and perspectives people face. Hearing their stories and concerns helped me approach each project with greater empathy and purpose. As an engineer, this insight enabled me to deliver tangible, practical solutions that addressed real needs, making my work not only technically sound but truly impactful on a human level, which is truly rewarding. It’s a constant reminder that what we build as engineers makes a real difference in the day-to-day lives of everyday people.

Share a piece of career advice

As the legendary hockey player Wayne Gretzky once said, “Skate to where the puck is going, not where it has been.” This mindset applies well to the engineering industry. It’s about anticipating change, staying curious and continuously learning. The ability to navigate complex regulatory, environmental and technical factors are crucial to continued success in this field. Our industry and the world are constantly evolving with new technologies, sustainability practices and innovative solutions to transportation challenges. To our benefit, ArchTam continues to promote innovation and development, and the results show with a suite of tools, expertise and networks that can be drawn upon. I encourage everyone to capitalize on the resources available to accelerate your career.

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Dana brings a unique blend of architectural vision, engineering expertise and strategic leadership to her role. With a career rooted in both design and delivery, she has built a reputation for guiding complex projects that make a lasting impact on communities. Her commitment to collaboration, sustainability and client success shines through in every phase of her work, from concept to completion.

Tell us a bit about yourself – your career journey and current role as Market Sector Lead.

My interest in the built environment took root early on. I was drawn to the idea that every structure begins as a vision and, then through a blend of creativity, coordination and technical skill, becomes something tangible and lasting. That curiosity led me to study architecture, but as my understanding of the industry deepened, I found myself increasingly drawn to the engineering side of construction. I transitioned into construction engineering at Arizona State University, and later earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix to strengthen my leadership capabilities and broaden my strategic business perspective.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that my greatest strength lies in helping clients bring their capital improvement and facility expansion goals to life. As a market sector lead, I take pride in building strong teams and delivering strategic growth through thoughtful leadership and collaboration. I am deeply committed to fostering meaningful partnerships with small, local and diverse suppliers, recognizing the vital role we play together in shaping a more inclusive and resilient industry. By working side by side, we deliver projects that reflect our clients’ values and create lasting benefits for the San Diego community.

Talk to us about a project that has impacted or been a major highlight of your career.

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on has been during my time as a project manager with the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD). My relationship with SDUSD spans decades — from 2001 to 2007, and again since 2013. What keeps drawing me back is the impact. It’s a place where strategic planning meets real, lasting community transformation. As a project manager for SDUSD, I’ve had the opportunity to lead efforts across more than a dozen campuses, overseeing modernization, new construction, and infrastructure upgrades under multi-billion-dollar bond programs. Our work has helped SDUSD expand access to safe, inclusive and future-ready learning environments for charter schools and traditional campuses. These projects like whole site modernizations, new student union buildings, and improved security features, incorporated solutions that helped schools better accommodate growing student populations, refresh aging facilities, and foster more inclusive learning environments. Revitalizing these school facilities has increased community safety and engagement as well as created shared spaces that serve families beyond the classroom.

Helping ensure that schools are equipped to meet both current and future demands has been incredibly rewarding. Walking through a completed site and seeing it come to life with activity and purpose, knowing it directly benefits students, educators and families, is deeply fulfilling. Every time I step onto a campus or attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony, I’m reminded that our work matters. We’re helping shape the places where the next generation will learn, dream and grow.

How do you incorporate community engagement into your design process to support sustainable practices and enhance health and well-being outcomes?

For me, community engagement isn’t optional, it’s essential.

Every project starts with listening. We prioritize understanding the unique needs and values of the people we serve, which allows us to design spaces that are not only environmentally responsible but also supportive of health and well-being of the community.

The San Diego community’s top concerns in education include equitable access, safe and inclusive learning environments, and long-term sustainability. These priorities shape every project we undertake. To address them, as a project manager, I have the opportunity to lead a process grounded in early and ongoing engagement with stakeholders, including district staff, school leaders, families, and community advocates.

Community input informs planning and design from the start, ensuring each project reflects local values. Through transparency and collaboration during construction, we deliver outcomes that are functional, resilient, and deeply connected to the communities they serve. This approach is especially important in a place like San Diego, where the vibrant, collaborative spirit of the city shapes everything we do. The city’s diversity, creativity and innovation create a dynamic environment where partnerships can truly flourish. It’s a privilege to work alongside people who care deeply about their city and its future. Our shared commitment drives more thoughtful, inclusive and sustainable outcomes.

Share a piece of career advice:

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of being intentional with your time and energy. It’s easy to get caught up in the pace of a demanding career, especially when you’re passionate about the work, but staying grounded requires more than just good time management. It takes self-awareness, clear priorities, and the ability to pause and reset when needed.

I often say my life runs on 15-minute calendar blocks, and while that’s partly a joke, it reflects how structured my days can be. What keeps me balanced is making space for the things that matter outside of work. Whether that’s volunteering with ACE Mentor program or Construction Management Association of America (CMAA), leading a Girl Scout troop, or spending time outdoors hiking, skiing or golfing. A fulfilling career isn’t just about what you accomplish professionally, it’s about how you stay connected to your values and your community along the way.

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Joyce O’Donnell is a registered professional engineer with over 30 years of experience in process engineering. She holds a master’s degree in environmental engineering and a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Based in New England, Joyce began her career supporting military operations and has since expanded her expertise across various industries, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, pulp and paper, electroplating and metal finishing.

During her 15-year tenure at ArchTam, Joyce has worked across both Environmental and Water business lines, focusing on industrial wastewater treatment systems. Her roles have involved design, operation, and troubleshooting, as well as participating in regulatory audits and preparing permitting documentation. Joyce’s extensive experience also includes process safety and process safety management, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to the field.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry

My entry into the industry was shaped more by circumstance than intention. My background is in chemical engineering, and many chemical engineers enter the oil and gas industry. However, when I graduated from college, the oil and gas sector was experiencing a downturn. Consequently, I was hired by a small engineering firm in New England that supported metal finishing operations. New pretreatment regulations under the Clean Water Act had recently been issued for certain industrial categories, including the metal finishing and electroplating industries. As such, many industrial facilities in the greater Boston and Providence area were required to install new or upgraded wastewater treatment systems to comply with these new regulations. This is how I began working in industrial wastewater management.

Because those regulations were new, I had to learn them thoroughly, and this knowledge has stayed with me. Interestingly, those regulations haven’t changed much since then. Working at the small engineering firm was enjoyable because I had to handle everything, from answering phones, field sampling, and engineering design tasks. This experience marked the beginning of my journey in the industry.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

One of my favorite projects was for a small oil refinery in the southern United States where my involvement in the project scope continued from start to finish. We began by diagnosing performance issues in the wastewater treatment system resulting in violating discharge limits and recommended a new, upgraded, wastewater treatment system to reliably maintain compliance.  The new treatment system was also sized to handle increased flow capacity to support future expansion. We conducted thorough wastewater characterization and developed the basis of design. Following this, we proceeded with the detailed design, ensuring every aspect of the new system was meticulously planned. The design included wastewater equalization and transfer, oil/water separation (API Separator), dissolved gas flotation (DGF) with nitrogen blanketing, chemical addition, and sludge dewatering.  At the completion of the design phase, we developed the bid documents, evaluated the bids, and recommended an equipment vendor for all major process units.  Once the equipment was installed, we provided hands-on support during the startup phase. The treatment system is still running today, and the client remains very satisfied with the results.

This project stands out as a success story because we were involved from the very beginning, through design, installation, and operation. It was incredibly rewarding to see the project through to completion and know that it continues to operate smoothly. The experience reinforced the importance of comprehensive planning and execution in achieving long-term success.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

One memorable project involved conducting a safety audit for a paper mill in Florida. We arrived about six months after a hurricane had devastated the facility, and the employees were still recovering from the aftermath. The damage was significant, affecting both the mill and the local community. During the safety audit, we asked the staff to reflect on what went well — and what didn’t — during the hurricane.

The facility stores and generates a significant quantity of hazardous chemicals requiring an audit of their management practices under EPA’s Risk Management Plan (RMP) regulations.  ArchTam had performed the previous audit at this plant three years prior and made several recommendations including the conduct of emergency preparedness drills and coordination with the industrial facility located immediately adjacent.  Since our previous audit, the facility had made notable improvements in how it manages hazardous materials and has conducted emergency drills — which proved vital during the crisis.  Their preparedness ensured that the release of hazardous chemicals was prevented, protecting the community.

Yet, despite their success in mitigating the risks, the experience left a lasting emotional impact. The team was eager to share their stories. My colleague encouraged the client team to discuss their personal experiences, giving them space to describe how the hurricane affected their lives and the wider community. This project was particularly impactful because it highlighted the importance of walking in our clients’ shoes. It remains a vivid memory, reminding me of the human side of engineering and the resilience of those we serve.

Share a piece of career advice

Adopt a positive approach by saying yes to new experiences. I recommend younger engineers spend time in the field to gain practical insights. Seeing equipment and talking with operators firsthand is invaluable. Moreover, personal interactions, even in the office, are essential in our digital age, especially after COVID. Direct conversations enhance communication and build stronger relationships and can often lead to your next professional opportunity.

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We’re spotlighting our Veterans Champion and project manager from our Buildings and Places business in the UK, Thomas Westlake, whose experience and continued contributions are helping shape how we support veterans across our organization. Their insight is helping us build a more inclusive, resilient, and supportive workplace for those transitioning from military to industry life.

Thomas Westlake is from our Project Management team in London and works predominantly in the Security and Resilience sector. He has been with ArchTam since 2023, following a career in the British Armed Forces. Thomas works on projects across government, public sector, defense, and disaster management, coordinating with a wide range of stakeholders and teams. His projects have been across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and the Caribbean.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

After serving in the British Army for eight years, I was eager to find a career where I could apply the skills I had developed and continue doing work that made a real difference. A friend who was working at ArchTam at the time introduced me to the company. What stood out was the scale of the projects, the global footprint, and the opportunity to contribute to work with real-world impact, particularly in areas like infrastructure, security, and resilience. Project management felt like a natural transition from the armed forces, and ArchTam offered the structure and opportunities to grow in that space. My role within the defence and government sectors allows me to contribute to meaningful projects in the UK and overseas. It’s rewarding to be part of efforts that help safeguard communities and protect national interests while supporting international efforts to foster resilience and enhance security.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

One of my most fulfilling projects was delivering a resilience assessment of six emergency shelters in the Turks and Caicos Islands. These shelters are crucial during hurricane season, providing protection to local communities when extreme weather hits. I led the assessment on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), working closely with some outstanding specialist consultants, local government representatives, and community leaders.

Our team conducted on-the-ground inspections, assessing compliance of six key areas: structural integrity, fire safety, hygiene facilities, security, accessibility, and gender sensitivity. We also reviewed emergency plans and practices and spoke with key stakeholders and residents to understand local needs and context.

What I enjoyed most was the challenge of building trust quickly, navigating cultural differences, and shaping practical, community-led solutions. Based on our findings, we made clear, actionable recommendations, ranging from structural improvements to clearer roles, better coordination between agencies, and enhancements to better support women, children, and other vulnerable groups.

The project helped strengthen local preparedness by addressing key vulnerabilities ahead of the next hurricane season and empowering local teams to lead the changes. It was a project where the impact was clear, the collaboration was strong, and the work genuinely helped improve readiness on the ground. That made it a particularly rewarding experience for me.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

After being appointed Veterans Champion for ArchTam, I have taken a leading role in organising the ArchTam Armed Forces and Veteran Industry Insight Programme in the UK and Ireland. This initiative was developed to support individuals transitioning from military to industry careers by providing a platform to explore opportunities and access a dedicated support network.

The event highlighted diverse career pathways and demonstrated our ongoing commitment to veterans, service leavers, and reservists through targeted training, mentoring and advocacy. It underscored the wide range of roles available across the organisation and the broader industry — from project management to leadership positions — many of which align closely with the skills veterans bring from their military service.

The event also created a valuable space for attendees to connect with industry professionals, gain insights into civilian work environments, and explore new career possibilities. A key focus was on recognising and translating the transferable skills veterans possess — such as leadership, problem-solving, resilience and teamwork — into meaningful opportunities in the industry workforce.

The event’s success was reflected in the positive feedback we received and the stories of participants who left with renewed confidence, many now actively considering careers in project management. Looking ahead, we are committed to building on this momentum. I have begun developing an internal veterans’ network to foster a sense of community, provide peer support, and ensure that the voices and experiences of veterans are reflected across the organisation.

Share a piece of career advice

Embrace transferable skills and be open to new opportunities. My transition from the British Army to project management wasn’t straightforward. No matter where you start or what your background is, the experiences you’ve gained and skills you have developed are often more transferable than you realise, trust in them and don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone.

The post People Spotlight: Meet Thomas Westlake appeared first on Blog.

One of his notable achievements includes the drafting of a new NEC clause on the application of ECC Secondary Option X20. This clause emphasizes key performance indicators, focusing on timely clearance of site portions and early completion of tree survey reports for a site formation contract with Hong Kong’s Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD).

Francis has also led several award-winning projects recognized for their sustainable, innovative and collaborative practices under NEC frameworks.

How did you come about integrating NEC practices into your professional work and projects?

NEC contracts are renowned for fostering collaborative relationships and effective communication between all parties involved, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. My journey as an Approved NEC Expert by the CEDD of the HKSAR Government began on June 9, 2015. After that, I have been actively involved in advocating for NEC adoption in ArchTam projects, as well as training resident site staff and head office staff on the practice. In July 2021, we published ArchTam’s NEC Administration Handbook — a key milestone on best practice and internal knowledge sharing. This was followed by a series of training sessions over the subsequent years to ensure that our practitioners are well-versed in NEC practices.

What has been the most rewarding experience in your career?

There’re plenty that I could cite, but a more recent one is our work on the Kwu Tung North and Fanling North New Development Area (NDA) Phase 1 project. We delivered two innovative solutions for this project — Hong Kong’s first bridge rotation over live railway tracks, which set a new benchmark for efficiency and safety by saving three months of construction time; and the world’s first use of ultra-high strength S960 steel in footbridge construction that not only achieved a remarkable reduction in the superstructure’s weight but also enhanced safety for the community.

This project also received the Grand Award in the ‘Demonstrating carbon dioxide reduction initiatives towards net-zero category’ at NEC Martin Barnes Awards 2024, and we’re honored to have been part of this achievement.

You continuously engage with the community to promote NEC. How has this shaped your experience in incorporating NEC principles into your work?

Engaging with the NEC community has profoundly shaped my understanding of NEC and how I applied its principles. Through participation in conferences, webinars and workshops, I have exchanged ideas with industry thought leaders and stay at the forefront of NEC’s evolving best practices and innovations within its framework.

Some highlights from my earliest involvements:

• April 2019:  Panelist at Hong Kong Construction Industry Council in April 2019
• August 2021: Shared insights on the evolution of NEC in Hong Kong for Project Management Institute Singapore’s international webinar
• November 2024: Spoke on fostering collaboration (NEC’s core principle of NEC) at the NEC Asia Pacific Conference, where the focus was.

These experiences have broadened my perspective, and I translated my newly gained knowledge into my projects. For example, the Tung Chung New Town Extension – Reclamation and Advance Works project which won NEC Contract Innovation Award in 2020; the Fanling Bypass Eastern Section and the Kwu Tung North & Fanling North NDA projects which received commendations for their excellence in NEC implementation for transportation and sustainability.

These have been great achievements not only for ArchTam but also for Hong Kong’s engineering community. As NEC is an evolving practice, constant engagement and collaboration are crucial in advancing its application to enhance innovative and sustainable solutions in the construction industry.

Francis was named Runner-up for the Individual Excellence Award at the NEC Martin Barnes Awards 2025 among strong competition, in recognition of his continued leadership and innovation in NEC applications across Hong Kong.

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Leesa Zerban is the sub-sector lead for the corporate real estate sector and leads a team of 40 specialist project managers in London with a specific focus on the London fit-out market. She has considerable experience in delivering corporate fit-out projects and programs for global clients.

After spending over a decade in the Middle East working on new build construction and commercial projects, Leesa returned to the UK. Since then, she has successfully led major programs for HSBC, Lloyd’s Banking Group and National Highways.

Leesa is a prominent and very active voice within the UK and India business community. Shortly after joining, she quickly became an active participant and a lead in the London Women’s Network, which has 150 members and where she quickly found great support. Her passion for this group resulted in nomination and appointment as the chair of the Gender Alliance Employee Resource Group for Europe & India. In this role, she champions inclusivity and equity, promoting best practices across teams and broader business operations.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry.

Growing up, I was very aware of the building industry since many of my family members worked in the sector. Initially, I planned to focus on law and take a different direction, but my early exposure to the industry sparked a passion that I couldn’t ignore. Once I set my mind on it, my family helped me identify an educational path that offered the broadest opportunities in the sector, even though I wasn’t sure what I wanted to specialize in at the time.

I was inspired by a passion for listed buildings — buildings, objects or structures that have national importance in terms of their architectural or historic interest — and a commitment to improving and extending their lifetimes. My academic path began with a degree in building surveying, as this degree seemed like the best option to gain a broad knowledge profile. Studying at the University of Brighton, England, provided me with a strong foundation in project management, cost management and building surveying.

After completing my studies, I spent a year in the UK before moving to the Middle East for a decade. The opportunity to work internationally on major projects motivated me to advance in the industry and highlighted the growth opportunities available within the building sector.

My initial focus on building surveying naturally evolved into project management, reflecting my strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead teams effectively. Over time, I discovered a passion for tackling complex project management challenges and thriving under tight deadlines to deliver exceptional value to clients.

What are the biggest issues currently facing the fit-out sector?

As someone deeply involved in the London fit-out market, I can tell you that this sector is currently navigating several significant challenges. These issues are shaped by a combination of economic pressures, environmental concerns and evolving work trends.

Firstly, supply chain disruptions have been a major hurdle. Brexit, coupled with global issues and the volatility of the UK economy, has severely impacted material availability. This has led to increased costs for both materials and labour. As a result, project delays or scaling back have become quite common.

Another key challenge is the shift towards hybrid working. This trend is now firmly established and has specific requirements. Modern businesses are seeking flexible office spaces that cater to a variety of work styles, including collaborative areas, quiet zones, and remote-friendly setups. Meeting these diverse needs is crucial for attracting and retaining talent, and it requires a thoughtful approach to office design.

Sustainability is also a growing focus in the fit-out sector. Corporate organizations are increasingly aiming for high sustainability targets, driven by both regulations and corporate goals. This means designing energy-efficient spaces that consider carbon footprints and embrace the principles of the circular economy and reuse. This trend is expected to grow as businesses work harder to fulfil their environmental responsibilities.

Navigating these challenges requires a strategic approach and a deep understanding of the market dynamics. By staying informed and adaptable, we work closely and thoughtfully with our clients to achieve their goals despite these obstacles.

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work at ArchTam is the ability to positively impact the community through our collaborative approach. By working closely with specialists in cost management, building engineering and sustainability, we can offer comprehensive solutions that drive meaningful change.

In the fit-out sector, one of the biggest challenges we face is reducing whole life carbon emissions. The short-term nature of office tenancies often leads to frequent strip-outs and replacements, which significantly contribute to carbon emissions. Unlike other construction sectors, there are currently no stringent requirements driving carbon reduction in this area.

To tackle this, our cross-disciplinary teams — specifically my cost and sustainability colleagues — work together to support clients in focusing on reuse over full replacement.

We address carbon reduction through three key stages: First, we collaborate with clients to make strategic decisions on retention and reuse. Second, we choose systems that use considerably less embodied carbon. Finally, we carefully select components and reduce material usage where possible.

By adopting this approach, we have seen real results and increased interest from the sector. It’s incredibly rewarding to influence the sector positively and work collaboratively towards a common goal. The decarbonization of the fit-out sector is a collective effort, requiring the participation of clients, manufacturers and service providers alike. Together, we can drive meaningful change and create a more sustainable future.

Share a piece of career advice

My career advice is rooted in my extensive experience and passion for the building industry. I emphasize the importance of gaining practical experience early on. “Get your boots on the ground,” I advise, encouraging shadowing or placement opportunities to see if the industry is the right fit. Working throughout my degree provided me with valuable insights that were instrumental in my career.

For women entering the sector, I highlight the importance of finding a safe space surrounded by like-minded, career-progressive individuals. It’s especially critical to have strong role models, both men and women, who can encourage, support and promote you. I credit my own mentor for much of my success and now pay it forward by guiding others. I believe in listening rather than giving advice, fostering long-lasting relationships with those I support from various regions, including the UAE.

I also advocate for working in different environments and countries. It’s a phenomenal learning experience that can significantly enhance career progression. Exposure to different cultures and working styles broadens one’s perspective and skills.

My key piece of advice is to “take opportunities, not risks.” By finding strong role models and becoming one yourself, you can create a supportive network that will help you navigate your career. My journey underscores the importance of practical experience, embracing opportunities, and building a network to grow and succeed in the building industry.

Read the latest on low carbon office fit-out cost model.

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George Robbins, PMP, CFCM, DBIA, MBA, is a project manager in our Chicago, Illinois office. He has a wide range of experience in complex project delivery across the transportation, transit, and IT sectors. 

What inspired you to join the industry? 

I started my career in construction and after a decade, I pursued advanced degrees to broaden my opportunities. I joined a national architecture, engineering, and planning firm where I supported the team on a foundation client project in Richmond, Virginia. Over time, I rose to become the client service leader, overseeing design, bid document preparation, procurement, maintenance, reporting, inspection, and construction work. The role exposed me to various aspects of project management, including budgeting, cost estimating, takeoffs, portfolio planning, risk management, change management, and stakeholder engagement. This experience confirmed for me that a professional engineering career path was the right fit for my continued growth.  

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why? 

My favorite ArchTam project is the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District’s West Lake Corridor project. This exciting design-build endeavor involves building an eight-mile extension of a commuter rail line running parallel to the Illinois-Indiana state line. The route, which stretches from the new Hammond Gateway station to a fresh terminus at Munster/Dyer Main Street, will provide a vital transportation link connecting high-growth neighborhoods to the Chicago metropolitan area. The expansion of the line will improve mobility, stimulate local economic growth, and reduce vehicular traffic and emissions, while incorporating best practices for environmental sustainability and wetland mitigation.   

This project is particularly energizing for me because it challenges me to apply a wide range of my expertise in procurement, contracts, information systems, IT systems (including open road tolling and video enforcement), back-office operations, intrusion protection systems, and constructability reviews. I am proud to contribute to the success of this project that will positively impact local communities. 

My favorite project from earlier in my career was when I managed the Powhite Parkway Improvement Program in Richmond, Virginia, which was the largest capital improvement project the client had undertaken since their inception in the 1960s. Key elements of the program included relocating Powhite Creek, widening the parkway, adding express lanes with open road tolling and video enforcement, constructing a new toll plaza administration building, and establishing an IT back office linked to the Virginia Department of Transportation database. As the client service leader, I handled planning, budgeting, design, bid administration, contract award, and construction management. This project highlighted the importance of sustainable alternatives in noise reduction and air quality improvements for surrounding communities. 

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community. 

I’m proud that my projects bring significant benefits to communities across various dimensions: economic, cultural, environmental and transportation.  

• Economically, our projects create new employment opportunities in local areas and spur development, including jobs and housing along new rail corridors.  
• Culturally, we prioritize preserving historical areas, Indigenous sites, fossil beds, and graveyards by redesigning proposed railroad alignments.  
• Environmentally, we’ve implemented wildlife crossings, optimized stream routing to minimize flooding risks, and rerouted existing surface streams.  
• From a transportation perspective, our efforts result in improved travel times and streamlined modes of commuting, minimizing unnecessary transfers for travelers and reducing vehicular emissions.  

These contributions underscore the positive impact of infrastructure projects on our communities. 

Share a piece of career advice. 

Proactive listening and effective collaboration are essential tools for success. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks: exercise patience and work through challenges. Establish a long-term plan and assemble a competent team. A well-functioning, collaborative team provides vital support throughout the project life cycle. Leverage the depth and breadth of resources available to you to make sure each project is delivered to the client’s satisfaction.  

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David is a director in our Project Management team in London and works predominantly in the National Security sector. He has been with ArchTam since 2014, originally as a consultant before transitioning to a full-time role in 2018. His projects have been across Europe and the Middle East, as well as Peru, Guyana, Mali, Kenya, Uganda, the Caribbean and Thailand.

Tell us about what inspired you to join the industry

After serving in the British Army for 25 years, I wanted a second career that would let me use the skills I had learnt and the chance to carry on doing work that I felt was making a difference. Military personnel have a great ability to get things done – and this is something in common with project managers (PM) in the industry. Someone once said to me that a project is a series of problems waiting to happen, and PMs are often the ones to sort them out. It seemed like a natural move.

The work I do in the National Security sector sees me working on several UK (and occasionally international) government contracts. This can be very challenging and incredibly rewarding – not only do our projects help secure and protect the British government staff working in fragile locations overseas, but we are making a tangible difference to the lives of the people in the countries in which we work by helping promote stability and security.

What is your favorite ArchTam project that you’ve worked on and why?

My favourite is our three-year project working with the Policía Nacional del Perú or the Peru National Police (PNP) to help improve their forensic capabilities and develop their 10-year strategy, which included guidance on infrastructure requirements.

This project allowed me to work with some outstanding specialist consultants and the PNP officers were also great to work with – always very welcoming, entirely professional and keen to improve their skills so that they could better serve the public. We heard first-hand from the PNP officers how the project was having a direct impact on their day-to-day work, which was very rewarding. I also found the people in Peru very friendly and the food in Lima is fantastic – I would highly recommend a visit.  

Tell us a story of how your work positively impacted the community.

Following hurricanes Katrina and Irma in the Caribbean, we deployed infrastructure advisors to the British Virgin Islands (BVI) to help the local government plan and implement the rebuilding of the critical infrastructure that had been widely destroyed in the storms.

Our team was working under very austere conditions and with limited basic resources. They were key advisors to the Recovery & Development Authority, which had been set up by the BVI Governor’s Office to manage the overall recovery programme. The team led projects to repair and improve essential water, energy, communications and transportation services, as well as design and manage the reconstruction of elements of the local prison and school on the main island of Tortola.

Share a piece of career advice

Grab opportunities when they are presented, even if it puts you outside your comfort zone and means challenging yourself. The personal and professional benefits you will get from working with other teams or on different types of projects, will make you more employable, you’ll be a greater asset to the business and it will broaden your horizons.

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