Phoebe McCartan

CopelandBEC
Consultant

1.5 Years
in the Industry

How did you get started in the AEC Industry?

I still consider myself to be “getting started” in the AEC industry, as I’ve only been in the field for a year and a half. However, my foundation in the field started at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, where I majored in Sustainable Systems Management - Building Science and Technology and minored in Construction Management. A pivotal experience for me at UMN was participating in the Solar Decathlon Design Challenge, which reinforced my curiosity for building enclosure design, allowed me to apply my academic knowledge to an existing building, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and establish a relationship with the company that I work for, CopelandBEC.

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?

A passion for sustainability is the core of my work—ensuring that what we build today stands the test of time while minimizing energy and material waste. I also value learning the means and methods of what I design, to make sure that solutions are practical, and not just theoretically sound.

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

I truly hit the mentor jackpot. During my time at the University of Minnesota, I had the opportunity to study under Pat Huelman, whose depth of knowledge in building science is unparalleled. His passion for the field fueled mine and I would not be at CopelandBEC without his guidance and support.

At CopelandBEC, I am fortunate to be surrounded by colleagues who are not only incredibly knowledgeable in the field, but are willing to share their knowledge with me and support my professional development. The company’s culture provides an environment where learning is encouraged, and constructive feedback is given and appreciated. I am grateful to be in a workplace that prioritizes mentorship, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

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

As designers, we have the power to create spaces that are not only accessible but encourage people to gather and connect. Women in architecture and building science have been at the forefront of advocating for inclusive and high-performance spaces. They have led the way in prioritizing sustainability, resilience, and occupant-centered design, ensuring that buildings serve a diverse range of needs.

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

A big part of the sustainability conversation when it comes to building envelopes is increasing insulation and airtightness to improve energy efficiency, but focusing on energy reduction without considering other factors can lead to unintended consequences, like mold growth, and occupant discomfort. Collaboration between architects, engineers, contractors, and building scientists is essential to creating truly resilient, high-performance buildings.

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 so far was not an award, or finishing a project, but coming across a wall assembly detail that I drew in college. I remember being so proud of that detail, but when I saw it a couple of months ago, I was shocked by the lack of detail and practicality it displayed. Being so new to the field, it’s easy to get caught up in how much I don't know, that I didn't realize how much I was learning. That detail reminded me how much I’ve grown. I’ll never stop learning, and strive to continue to surprise myself.

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

My favorite projects are those with a high level of collaboration between the stakeholders, and shared commitment to addressing the root cause of an issue rather than just treating the symptoms. I also enjoy exploratory investigations—it's satisfying to take things apart to figure out how they work and work with others to come up with a robust design.

What advice would you give women just entering the industry?

Ask more questions! Curiosity and a willingness to learn will not only help you grow but also show others that you are engaged and eager to contribute. Seek out mentors, colleagues, and peers who share your enthusiasm and support your growth. Surround yourself with positive people you trust.