Carmen Prantil

Copeland Building Envelope Consulting
Staff Consultant

2.5 Years
in the Industry

How did you get started in the AEC Industry?

I started my education in architecture, drawn by the creative aspects of designing spaces, but quickly realized I cared more about how buildings were put together than just how they looked. That led me to tumble into building science, where I could dive deeper into the technical challenges I craved. Now, I get to spend my days helping to build high performance buildings, fix low performance buildings, and not screw up the buildings in between.

What inspires you to design? Do you incorporate any unique perspectives or values into your designs, and how do you think your experiences as a woman influence your work?

I’m inspired by the people I care about and the strangers that pass me every day on the street! At their core, buildings exist to serve people; they shape our comfort, our health, and our happiness. I approach design with a deep sense of responsibility, knowing that the spaces we create don’t just stand still. As a woman in this field, I’m keenly aware of how design can either include or exclude, empower or hinder. I think about who gets overlooked in traditional design choices and how I can work to create a process that feels intuitive, welcoming, and human-centered.

Who have your role models been? Have you had any mentors throughout your career, and how have they shaped your journey in architecture?

I’m immensely grateful to Patrick Huelman, my college professor, mentor, and fellow building science nut. He introduced me to the field of building science, and transformed the spark of curiosity I had in how buildings worked into the foundation of my career today. Pat instilled in me the importance of the basics and the powerful tool of curiosity. I’ve also found role models in those who advocate for clear communication and collaboration, as the best technical solutions are only as good as your ability to convey them. Each mentor, whether formally or through observation, has shaped how I approach challenges: with curiosity, a respect for fundamentals, and the persistence of a toddler who just learned the word "why."

How do you think architecture can help address social issues, and how have you seen women lead the way in creating inclusive, equitable spaces?

Living in a shoebox Boston apartment – one of dozens in my building, on a street lined with hundreds more – I have a deep understanding of just how much life can fit into 500 square feet. Beyond the art of strategic furniture placement, I’ve gained a hyper awareness of how building design shapes daily life. Witnessing fellow women engineers in my firm and the industry beyond that are deeply committed to housing policy that balances affordability with livability, I have seen firsthand how their work ensures that buildings become a catalyst for connection rather than isolation. The difference lies in design—spaces that encourage interaction have the power to transform housing from mere shelter into a vibrant community.

How do you see the conversation on sustainability going in our industry?

I’m optimistic that sustainability conversation volume is growing in the AEC industry; more people are engaged and that’s a great thing! At the same time, I suffer from serious buzzword fatigue. The drive for “green” and “resilient” design are pursued without clear definition of the terms, making it hard to separate meaningful progress from marketing fluff. The momentum is there, but for it to enact real change, we need to move beyond the buzz and focus on measurable impact.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far, and how did it shape your professional journey?

The most fulfilling moment of my career thus far has been stepping into project management and realizing just how much I love working with clients. This industry is fundamentally relationship-driven—projects succeed not just because of technical expertise, but because of trust, communication, and understanding what clients truly need. Being the primary contact for a project early in my career showed me how much impact I could have by building those connections. It expanded my perspective on my role, pushing me to lean into business development and the bigger picture of how strong relationships drive successful projects.

Tell us about some of your favorite projects you’ve worked on.

I enjoy projects that bring together multiple trades and stakeholders because they require true collaboration. The complexity makes it clear that no single component of a building functions in isolation. Success in these projects comes not just from individual knowledge, but from integrating that expertise into a cohesive, long-term approach. Where others may see too many cooks in the kitchen, I welcome the challenge—thinking critically across a diverse design team makes the process feel just as rewarding as the final result.

What advice would you give women just entering the industry?

Embrace being a sponge!! STEM is an ever-evolving field so being a lifelong learner is key to success. Also remember that opportunities to learn come in all forms, so engage with whatever you can – whether it’s a big chance to attend a professional conference or something as simple as getting lunch with a coworker to talk about their experience and career path.