Top Lessons Learned from Building a Practice in the AEC

Do you know what it takes to build an architecture, engineering, or consulting practice from scratch? Hear from AEC leaders about the lessons learned from adapting to an everchanging regulatory environment and volatile market. Join this panel of Founding Principals of architecture, engineering, and sustainability consulting practices to gain insights on process, success stories, learnings, and more.

Sandeep Ahuja

Sandeep Ahuja is the CEO and Co-Founder of cove.tool, the end-to-end building performance and data app. Most recently, Sandeep presented at the UN environment assembly, with 1500 global delegates, on the impact of buildings on climate change, showcased at the Tedx Atlanta and won the Forbes 30 under 30.

With her desire to bring automation into the AEC world, she is pioneering the integration of data driven thinking into the design and construction process by developing intelligent software.

Monroj Sangha

As a founder of Empowered, Manroj is on a mission to empower himself and others around him to maximize their potential. Having interest in leadership and entrepreneurship, he uses his business platform to energize his clients. By trade, Manroj is a professional electrical and mechanical engineer. He enjoys connecting with other entrepreneurs, community members, industry leaders and making their mission an Empowered mission.

Oliver Baumann

Oliver has 25 years of experience in design, commissioning, and measurement & verification for high-performance buildings. In 2006, he started Baumann Consulting, successfully growing the business to a firm with international reputation. Building on his transatlantic experience, Oliver’s expertise covers the entire lifecycle of buildings, from innovative energy concepts, building simulation, commissioning, to building performance verification. As an advisory expert to building owners and project teams, Oliver advances cutting-edge best practices for high-performance buildings to maximize return on investment. Oliver also works to guide universities and communities to develop and implement campus and community wide integrated energy master plans.

Chris Johns

Chris Johns is a Founding Partner of ThoughtCraft Architects serving as the Firm Conductor. He leads the Boston studio of the award-winning architecture firm which is driven by a collaborative commitment to design excellence and craftsmanship. Their goal is to leave the world better and more beautiful. Throughout his career, Chris has created thoughtful buildings that enhance the human experience by balancing innovation and spirited exploration with logic and precision on a wide range of projects.

Sandy Cooper

Sandy, a fellow Atlantan, is a Founding Partner and principal of Collins Cooper Carusi Architects. With a focus on academic, healthcare, hospitality, athletic, and corporate projects, Sandy has been focused on excellence in architecture throughout his career. Their practice is built around the idea of respecting and contributing to their client's unique missions.