Blog Archives

Vice Chair of the National Association of Home Builders Student Advisory Board
1st Place Outstanding NAHB Student Chapter of the Year
2021 National Housing Endowment HELP Grant Winner

What year did you start teaching at NewSchool?

2011

What led you to pursue a career in the construction industry?

My father! He was my first hero and role model! I was introduced to residential construction at birth. My dad was a brick mason then later became a general contractor. I spent every summer going to work with him. In my family, the first-born male becomes a general contractor. I am my dad’s only child, so I was destined to have a career in construction.

Why did you start teaching at NewSchool?

My mentor Dr. Linda Thomas Mobley always spoke to me about teaching. I was a teaching assistant when I was attending graduate school and I quickly realized I had a gift with it.

In your opinion, what makes NewSchool special?

It’s a safe place where faculty and students can be themselves while obtaining a great education.

What are the challenges, if any, faced by women in a male-dominated field?

The biggest challenge is not getting a chance to prove yourself in the field. Some females would like to be superintendents and not sales associates!

Throughout your time in the construction industry, what are some ways you feel it has changed?

There is definitely more diversity in the field! There is also more mainstream interest in the craft.

What’s something interesting you’re currently working on? Personal or professional.

I am working on research exploring women in the construction industry. I want to research the experiences of women in the industry and how we can promote and introduce more women in the industry.

What is your favorite part about educating the next generation of construction managers?

My favorite part about educating the next generation is being a part of their journey and seeing how far they go. Many of my students have made me very proud.

If you could provide advice to a young female interested in a career in construction, what would it be?

I would tell young females in the industry to JUST DO IT! Don’t be afraid of what might happen. Our industry is more open to women than ever before and I truly believe this is the time to be a woman in the industry.

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career to date?

The most important lesson I learned is to believe in my abilities and knowledge. I earned my spot in the industry and I should not think differently.

What has you most excited about the future?

I am most excited about new technologies that are being introduced. The industry has not changed much in its processes, and I think the new generation is going to provide more innovative ways to accomplish many tasks in the industry.

Education

Masters in Building Construction, Georgia Institute of Technology

BBA in Marketing, Augusta State University – College of Business Administration

About Andre

With a wealth of experience spanning various roles and industries, Andre Tejeda is a seasoned professional in industrial development, construction, and academia. Currently serving as Sr. Principal for Industrial Development & Construction at Chick-fil-A Corporate Support Center, he oversees strategic initiatives and project execution. Additionally, as an Adjunct Professor at NewSchool of Architecture and Design, Andre imparts his knowledge and expertise to future construction professionals. Prior to his current roles, he held leadership positions at CBRE and HD Supply, where he managed complex construction projects and programs. With a strong foundation in project management and construction services, Andre brings valuable insights and skills to every endeavor.

Education

Master of Architecture, University of Washington

Bachelor of Arts – Art History，Emory University

About Thomas

Thomas Mulica, a licensed architect with a wealth of experience in blending architectural design with a unique sense of empathy, history, and humor, currently leads Story Architecture LLP in San Diego, CA. Educated at the University of Washington, Seattle, where he obtained a Master of Architecture in 2005, Thomas’s academic journey also includes a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Emory University, Atlanta, GA. His professional ethos is deeply influenced by craft design and the stories that buildings tell about their times and occupants.

Thomas’s teaching career as an Assistant Professor at the NewSchool of Architecture and Design since 2015 underscores his dedication to nurturing the next generation of architects. He has led undergraduate thesis and topic studios, focusing on architectural studies and the history of architecture. His volunteer work, including impactful projects with Architects Without Borders and the US Peace Corps, highlights his commitment to using architecture as a tool for social change and community improvement.

Thomas’s achievements include winning the 99k House Competition in 2009, a testament to his innovative approach to affordable and sustainable housing. His multifaceted career is a blend of design excellence, educational leadership, and a commitment to societal contributions through architecture.

Education

M.A. Arch, Design Theory & Methodology, University of California (UCLA)

1. Arch, Architecture, Tulane University
2. Arch, Architecture, American University of Beirut

About Rabi

Rabi Sidawi AIA has practiced architecture since 1986, with experience in Berkeley, Los Angeles, Honolulu, and Atlanta. Currently an Adjunct Professor at NSAD and Gwinnett Technical College, he brings expertise in construction management and interior design. Formerly, as a Senior AEC Solutions Consultant, he provided mentoring and consulting on AEC projects utilizing industry-leading BIM software. Rabi has also been a speaker at Autodesk University and other professional events, and holds multiple certifications including Autodesk Building Specialist and BIM 360 Technical Advisor. A member of the American Institute of Architects since 1996, he is a registered architect in Georgia, USA.

Education

M.Arch 2, Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc)

Visual Art, Fordham University, USA

Bachelor of Architecture, Southeast University, China

About Andy

Chi-An Liao (Andy) is an aspiring architect from Taipei, Taiwan, currently pursuing his M.Arch 2 at the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) in Los Angeles. With a solid foundation in Architecture from Southeast University, China, and Visual Art from Fordham University, USA, Andy brings a diverse and creative perspective to his work. His extensive internship experience from 2013 to 2016 includes engaging in a variety of architectural projects, showcasing his skills in concept design, 2D and 3D modeling, and rendering.

Andy is proficient in multiple languages and software tools essential for contemporary architectural design, including SketchUp, Rhino, AutoCAD, Photoshop, and many more. His professional journey features contributions to significant architectural firms and projects, enhancing his portfolio in design and site supervision. Most recently, Andy’s roles have evolved from designer to site engineer, involving him in projects like the Taiwan Contemporary Culture Lab (C-LAB).

Andy’s dedication and passion for architecture are recognized by peers and mentors alike, making him a promising talent in the field.

Education

• Ph.D. in Information and Computer Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei City, Taiwan
• Master of Law in Business Administration, National Taiwan University, Taipei City, Taiwan
• Executive Master of Business Administration, Aalto University Helsinki, ES, Finland
• Master of Computer Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei City, Taiwan
• Bachelor of Business Administration/ Computer and Information Science, Soochow University, Taipei City, Taiwan

About Tony

Tony Liao is an outstanding professional with a deep background in computer science and extensive experience in managing and executing various projects. With over 20 years in his field, he specializes in project management, research and development, application engineering, and engineering management. His work, particularly in technical collaborations, has showcased his innovative thinking and active contributions to global technical solutions. Throughout his career, Dr. Liao has held roles ranging from a professor for the Master’s in Construction Management Online program at NewSchool of Architecture & Design, a Senior Research Associate and Scientific Program Manager at the University of Colorado Boulder, to an Assistant Professor at Taiwan Chinese Culture University. In these universities, he has led various projects in teaching, software development, interior design, and construction management, highlighting his professional expertise and extensive experience. Additionally, Dr. Liao holds multiple certifications, including Google Project Management Certificate, Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), and Strategic Career Planning Consultant (SCPC). His affiliations with prestigious organizations such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and Global Career Quality Assurance (GCQA) further underscore his skills and recognition in his field. Dr Liao’s dedication to management science, environmental science, and technological innovation makes him an invaluable asset to any initiative aiming to integrate technological advancements with sustainable and impactful solutions.

Education

• Master of Public Administration, Walden University
• Bachelor of Architecture, University of Illinois

About George

George Welch has played a number of integral roles at NewSchool, including serving as an initial member of NewSchool of Architecture & Design, LLC, as well as previously serving as the Chair of the Construction Management Program, during which he contributed to the development and expansion of the program.

Welch, who worked in the design construction business for more than 35 years before relocating to San Diego, has significant experience in all phases of real estate development, including design, code compliance, construction, ownership, management and sales, and state agency work.

Memberships

• Associate, American Institute of Architects (AIA)
• Member, Construction Management Association of America
• Member, International Code Council
• Member, Kendall College Charitable Trust
• Finance Board Member, St. Paul’s Methodist Church
• Board of Directors, ACE Mentorship

Education

• Master of Business Administration, Chapman University
• Bachelor of Science in Business Management, University of LaVerne

About Steve

Steve Matley has over 25 years of experience in leadership and management in multiple industries. His business management and project management experience was cultivated in real estate, land development, and construction, involving commercial, institutional, residential and public works projects. He has held positions as a General Building Contractor, a Senior Project Manager for an ENR top 50 rated agency construction management firm and Vice-President of Land Acquisition and Forward Planning for a production homebuilder. In these positions, Steve successfully planned and executed numerous projects including educational complexes, high-rises, master planned communities, production homes, custom homes, public works and infrastructure projects. He has been designated as an expert witness in real estate, development, and construction-related litigation cases.

As a business owner, Steve managed multiple companies of his own, including DCM Group Inc., a development and construction management consulting firm, which managed land acquisition, entitlement, and planning for projects valued at over a half billion dollars within an eight-year period. During this time, Steve personally managed dozens of projects, consistently performing above projected ROI expectations. He later was Owner and Principal of Building Solid Foundations, LLC, a leadership and business management advising and consulting firm. Currently, he serves as President of Coast 2 Coast Equities, Inc., a real estate investment, acquisition and development firm.

Steve is a member of the Construction Management faculty at NewSchool of Architecture & Design in San Diego, acting as Program Chair for the undergraduate and graduate degree CM programs and Associate Professor. He previously served as a professor for the Gordon and Jill Bournes School of Engineering at California Baptist University. Steve led the creation, curriculum development and WSCUC accreditation process for the Associates of Science Degree program in Construction Management at San Joaquin Valley College where he held various positions including Program Director, Division Manager and Student Dean.

Steve participates as a facilitator and speaker for educational seminars and workshops in both the construction / building industry and the general business environment. Notable presentations include expert panel facilitation for the CMAA (Construction Management Association of America), seminar and workshop presentations for the NAHB (National Association of Homebuilders) International Builders Show, and IVBCF’s Educational Speaker Series. The City of Temecula retained Steve to present the opening keynote for their inaugural Start-Up Week. In addition, he is the designated expert panel facilitator for the Business Leaders Summits, produced by BuildLeaders.org and FIRE Up Live Events produced by Finest Women in Real Estate. Steve is a certified trainer for the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) and presents as an expert for audiences in the education, real estate and construction industries, speaking for business workshops, seminars, conferences and symposiums.

Current Projects

• NAVFAC Projects: NAWS China Lake – 180 buildings: fire/life safety retrofits and upgrades, Fire Alarm reporting and mass notification systems NSA Monterey Naval Post Graduate School – 3 buildings (educational research labs and offices), fire/life safety retrofits and upgrades
• Land Development: Multiple land acquisition, forward planning, entitlement and development projects under Coast 2 Coast Equities, Inc.

Awards

Certificate of Recognition, California State Assembly, Melissa Melendez, 67th District Certificate of Recognition, Optimist International District 41, Outstanding Judging, Oratorical Contest Finals Certificate of Recognition, California State Assembly, Marie Waldron, 75th District District Champion, Toastmasters District 12 Speech Evaluation Contest Most Outstanding Employee Award, Gafcon, Inc. Advanced Communicator Gold (ACG) – Toastmasters International Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) – NAHB/HBI University of Housing Certified Green Professional (CGP) – NAHB/HBI University of Housing\ Certified Trainer – NAHB/HBI University of Housing Advanced Leader Bronze (ALB) – Toastmasters International Licensed General Contractor (B-inactive), State of California, CSLB

Memberships

Professional Member, National Speakers Association Member, NSA-GLAC (National Speakers Association – Greater Los Angeles Chapter) Gold Level Member, Fire-Up Connect Professional Resources Member, CMAA (Construction Management Association of America), San Diego Chapter, San Diego, CA Officer/Member, Rock Toastmasters Club, San Diego, CA Member, BNI Temecula 1 Chapter, Temecula, CA Officer/Charter Member, Toastmasters Professional Speakers, Advanced Club, Murrieta, CA Bootstrappers, Entrepreneurs Mastermind & Networking Group, San Diego, CA President, IVBCF (Inland Valley Business and Community Foundation), Temecula, CA Board Member, BIA (Building Industry Association) – Baldy View Chapter, Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino County, CA Member, BIA-SC (Building Industry Association of Southern California), Irvine, CA Member, NAHB (National Association of Homebuilders), Washington DC Affiliate Member, SRCAR (South Riverside County Association of Realtors), Murrieta, CA Club Advisor, Helper/Speaker, Student Venture, Vista Murrieta HS, Murrieta President / VP Membership, Toastmasters #7917, Temecula (Toast of the Valley) Area Committee Member, Young Life, Temecula Founding Board Member, Anza Valley Building Association, Anza, CA Leadership Council/Moderator, CBMC Forums, San Diego, CA Founding Member, Building Foundations, San Diego, CA Founding Member / Facilitator, Leadership Forums Professional Mastermind Professional Member, ICBO (International Conference of Building Officials – now ICC), Whittier, CA

Additional Information

• Community Service & Affiliations: Steve has served as a Board Member for the Building Industry Association (BIA-SC, Baldy View Chapter), a Member of CMAA (San Diego Chapter), an Area Committee member for Young Life (Temecula Valley), a member of NAHB, an Affiliate Member of SRCAR (South Riverside County Association of Realtors), a member of ASC (Associated Schools of Construction), and is President of the Inland Valley Business and Community Foundation, a non-profit 501c3 organization.

Education

• Master of Engineering, University of Alberta
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, University of Sarajevo

About Momo

Teaching the next generation of leaders in the Construction Management field is our mission. My simple approach is in combining teaching Construction Management strategies with over 30 years of experience as a West Yost Associates Client Manager for the San Diego basin. Besides engineering duties various business development elements were applied and mastered. City’s GIS system maps updates using most recent GIS information and information from O&M field personnel; the information processing using most recent edition of Infrastructure system modeling software. Preparing students with the acquired knowledge, concepts and processes would require work with a tools that have yet to be publicized is a principle mantra of our program. My passion for education and the professional development of young leaders has allowed me to mentor and guide several entrepreneurs and businesses throughout my career through student outreach program of the CMAA San Diego Chapter. This experience allows me to combine academic acumen and vast practical experience to bring a unique perspective to the classroom.

Memberships

• PE – Professional Mechanical Engineer registered in California, Washington and Alberta, Canada
• CCM – Certified Construction Manager by Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)
• BCEE – Board Certified Environmental Engineer by American Academy of Environmental Engineers (AAEE)
• Current Vice President, President Elect, CMAA San Diego Chapter
• National CMAA Board Member
• ABET PEV