Sustainability Focused Career with Corey Squire

Welcome to the mentorDINO YouTube Interview Series, your go-to destination for in-depth conversations with professionals in the fields of architecture, engineering, construction, and adjacent fields. I’m your host Katelyn Rossier, and I’m on a mission to uncover the fascinating stories, insights, and expertise of individuals who have shaped the built environment.

In each episode, we delve into the unique career journeys of our guests, exploring their educational backgrounds, professional experiences, specializing, and what they do. Whether you’re a budding Architect, an aspiring Engineer, or a construction enthusiast, you’ll find valuable advice, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of these professions.

If you’re new here, consider subscribing to our YouTube channel so you never miss an interview with our incredible guests. And for our blog readers, we’ll also provide a mini-transcript below the video to make it easier to follow along. Now, let’s jump right into today’s conversation and get ready to be inspired by the remarkable individuals who have made their mark in architecture, engineering, and construction.

Sustainability Focused Career

Corey Squire, associate principal and sustainability director at BORA Architects, discusses his journey in architecture and sustainability. He shares his experience working in sustainability consulting and his current role at BORA. Corey also talks about his recently published book, ‘People, Planet, Design,’ which provides a practical guide to realizing architecture’s potential.

He emphasizes the importance of communication and motivation in sustainability work and discusses the challenges of balancing time between BORA and his consulting firm. Corey shares insights on education in sustainability and the role of the AIA Committee on the Environment. He also offers advice for young professionals starting their careers in sustainability.

Takeaways

  • Sustainability is a broadening of concern when designing, encompassing the health of people, the ecology, and the planet.
  • Communication and motivation are key in sustainability work, as it often involves convincing others to prioritize sustainable design.
  • The ROI analysis in sustainable design can be a trap, as it focuses on financial calculations rather than what is truly important.
  • The AIA Committee on the Environment (COTE) provides valuable resources and opportunities for professionals interested in sustainability.
  • Mentorship is crucial in career development, and young professionals should seek out mentors who can guide and inspire them.
  • Building relationships and understanding the human aspect of sustainability are essential for creating meaningful change in the built environment.

0:00 Welcome

3:00 Balancing Firm and Consulting

4:30 Sustainable Education

5:15 People, Planet, Design Book

10:12 Sustainable Leadership & Advocacy

17:00 Types of Projects Corey’s Worked On

20:00 Sustainability Career Path

22:00 Importance of Post Occupancy

25:00 AIA COTE & The Framework for Design Excellence

29:33 Organizations

30:47 Power of Mentorships

31:29 Advice for Young Professionals Starting Their Career

Written by

Katelyn Rossier, AIA, NCARB, LSSBB

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