In conversation with the DBIA: D-zin is not a 4-letter Word in Design-Build

Members of the Design Professionals Committee of the DBIA Western Pacific Region will lead an interactive discussion on key questions surrounding the role of design professionals in Design-Build delivery. Topics will include project pursuit, design excellence, client relationships, and collaboration with Design-Assist Trade Partners.

This program aims to facilitate an engaging and informative conversation that promotes knowledge-sharing and best practices in Design-Build and will expand upon discussions held at the 2023 DBIA WPR Conference in Anaheim, providing an opportunity for deeper exploration within the design professional community.

Utilizing a real-time voting platform, we will prompt conversations around each question, encouraging audience participation and thoughtful engagement with the topic at hand.

Moderators

David Crotty, AIA, DBIA – Vice President, Nelson Worldwide

As the National leader of NELSON Worldwide’s Civic and Justice Practice, David has a demonstrated history of creating and overseeing design teams for large, complex projects that incorporate evidence-based elements. His international experience has given him a broad perspective and the ability to approach projects with fresh and innovative ideas. With a project and client-first mentality, David has successfully delivered outstanding results on over $1.5 billion in construction costs of design-build projects as a Criteria Architect or Architect of Record. His projects have won multiple AIA design awards, a testament to his commitment to quality and innovation. In addition to his extensive design-build experience, David is also the Chair for the WPR Design Professionals Committee, where he provides thought leadership and collaborates with other professionals to elevate the industry. With his expertise in design, leadership, and innovation, Mr. Crotty is dedicated to delivering exceptional results for his clients while advancing the field of design.

Simin Naaseh, SE, DBIA, SEONC Fellow – Senior Principal & Chair of the Board, Forell | Elsesser Structural Engineers

With over 40 years of experience Simin has led many of the firm’s large and complex projects. Simin thrives on building strong relationships with clients and colleagues, and is passionate about Design-Build delivery. Simin is recognized as a leader in the AEC industry, having devoted much time serving in leadership positions in many professional organizations. She currently serves on the Board and the Executive Committee of DBIA WPR. Previously, she served as the President of the Board of Structural Engineers Association of Northern California (SEAONC), and has been awarded the honor of SEAOC Fellow for her contributions to the association and to the structural engineering profession. She has also served on the Boards of AIA San Francisco, California Preservation Foundation, and Lambda Alpha International.

Mark Zajdzinski, AIA, DBIA – Principal, SmithGroup

Mark brings over 20 years of technical and management leadership, having an array of project experience from workplace, healthcare, Science + Tech, mixed-use and high-rise buildings. He is an active member in collaborative team efforts having worked on several Design-Build projects. Mark’s been an integral part of the project teams providing intuitive leadership and technical advice. He is a graduate of Southern California Institute of Architecture and is a Principal at SmithGroup in Los Angeles. He was the Project architect on the Tianqiao & Chrissy Chen Neuroscience Research Building at Caltech which won the 2021 DBIA Western Pacific Region – Project of the Year + Design Excellence Awards. His technical and management ability adds a robustness to project teams; while his passion for architecture comes from the impact the buildings he works on contribute to the overall health of its inhabitants.

Learning Units

1. Engage in an interactive forum tailored to address specialized challenges encountered by design professionals within the realm of Design-Build delivery, fostering a dynamic learning environment enriched by the collective wisdom of industry peers.
2. Harness the synergistic potential of collaborative efforts within Design-Build teams to cultivate a culture of trust and synergy with project owners, facilitating seamless project execution and client satisfaction.
3. Explore and exchange cutting-edge methodologies and exemplary strategies amongst design professionals, aimed at optimizing client outcomes and delivering unparalleled value in project endeavors.=
4. Embrace a culture of lifelong learning by actively participating in actionable follow-up initiatives derived from this comprehensive program, ensuring ongoing professional development and adaptation to evolving industry standards and practices.

Parking

• No host / Street Parking Available.