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Interview
excellence is and one of the lenses through which we look at it is sustainability. Designbuild teams have a responsibility to help guide the owner in this area, to educate them, and to alleviate concerns that sustainability is too costly. Our position used to be that owners need to clearly articulate their sustainability goals. We have since switched that position to suggest that design-builders are driving the future of resilient and sustainable infrastructure,” Lisa shares.
As the only association representing the entire spectrum of design and construction professionals, DBIA represents everyone who has a stake in the future of the industry. Members receive access to education and certification that inspires both projects and futures. By promoting the value of design-build project delivery and teaching the effective integration of design and construction services, DBIA ensures success for members across all disciplines.
“ Our comprehensive education offerings are designed to cater to individuals and teams, providing them with the tools they need to succeed,” Lisa continues.“ With both virtual and in-person options, earning continuing education hours has never been easier. We have gone from an organization that tried to explain to people what design-build is to advocating legislative authority, and now, sharing best practices. We’ re teaching what’ s next in terms of elevating design-build to the next level of performance.”
The rapid growth of design-build presents the need for leaders who can deftly navigate the unique landscape of collaborative project delivery. Projections show that nearly half of all construction spending will be design-build by 2028, so building a strong foundation of leadership is vital to keeping up with that trend. DBIA’ s Collaborative Delivery Leadership Academy, in partnership with Barbara Jackson, LLC, is designed to equip AEC professionals with the leadership skills and mindset needed to successfully make the mental shift from a segregated services approach to an integrated one.
“ I think design-build is so much more than just a single point; it’ s a mental and cultural shift. Early integration and a streamlined and aligned decision making process within the owner culture is essential. It’ s surprising how the concept of trust in collaboration and one team, one goal isn’ t as common as you’ d imagine. Some are turning to consultants or what we call owner advisors to help guide them through the process. What DBIA is trying to highlight is that a consultant who worked in a design-bid-build environment doesn’ t automatically translate to one who can be an advisor in a design-build environment. It’ s a completely different skill set, and owners need to ensure an advisor is well-versed in that cultural and mental shift,” she concludes. ■
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