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.