Meet Mazzetti’s newest Senior Project Manager, James Woods. James‘ experience includes project management, mechanical systems design, and energy and sustainability consulting. He specializes in the design of low impact buildings for a variety of market sectors including commercial, arts and culture, aviation, education, hospitality, and life sciences. Formerly at Glumac, James joins Mazzetti as an Associate Principal, located in Portland, OR, serving clients nationwide.
HOW DID YOU GET INTO YOUR SPECIFIC LINE OF WORK?
I’ve always decently excelled at math and science. I attended Appalachian State University and studied Physics. However, I found it too theoretical. I decided I wanted to focus more on applied science because I was interested in green buildings and sustainable design, which require us to use science created by others to solve real world problems in the built environment. I went on to obtain my degree in Architectural Engineering from University of Colorado which includes structural engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, etc. I began my career in mechanical engineering because HVAC systems use the most energy in buildings, so it provides me the opportunity to have the greatest impact on sustainable outcomes.
TELL ME ABOUT A MEMORABLE PROJECT…
I worked on the new Oregon State Treasury building. It is a net zero energy building with photovoltaic panels, a battery energy storage system, and a generator configured into a micro-grid. The building is also highly resilient, able to withstand a magnitude 9.0 earthquake and still provide power, fresh water, minimal heating and cooling via radiant floors, servers/data, etc. for a minimum of four days without any utility connections. It features an on-site well with water treatment, satellite phones, and operable windows for ventilation and daylight.
WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT YOUR LINE OF WORK?
I am excited about the environmental impact we can have via highly sustainable designs — energy efficiency, passive design, daylight, and an overall reduction in carbon emissions from building operation. I am also motivated by the impact we can have on the people for whom we design these buildings and look forward to learning more about how Mazzetti approaches designing spaces for Healthcare projects.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT, WORKING FOR MAZZETTI?
It is an exciting time to be joining Mazzetti since we are in the process of reorganizing our practice areas. I look forward to expanding opportunities in Portland/Eugene area with Tuan and Monica.
ADVICE FOR THE YOUNGER GENERATION?
My advice is to take your time. Everyone wants to be a Principal right away. Slow down and enjoy the process of learning everything! Make reasonable targets and goals for what you want to achieve, both in the near and long term. Explore different ways to solve problems, which often includes observation/mentorship from coworkers and peers in the industry.
LIFE OUTSIDE OF WORK?
This is easy – all the outdoor stuff! I am drawn to nature and made stops in Colorado and California along the way before settling in Portland. I enjoy skiing, white-water kayaking, surfing, mountain biking, rock climbing, etc. In fact, I just got back from camping in the San Juan Islands.
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE OF THE A/E/C INDUSTRY LOOK LIKE?
I hope it is increasingly more sustainable in nature with materials, construction methods, 3D modeling and printing. I also anticipate a continued evolution of integrated and progressive design-build, increasing collaboration among all parties.