“Barbara is a recognized leader and innovator in the architecture, engineering and construction industry,” said Chief Executive Joe Brown of Planning, Design + Development. “She has a proven record of working closely with clients to successfully deliver on projects of all scales and complexities.”
Integrated services
Barbara will oversee the integration of planning, design + development architecture and engineering practices. “The design process today incorporates the early integration of all disciplines working as cross functional knowledge communities throughout the life of the project,” says Barbara. “AECOM is uniquely positioned to fully integrate design, planning and development and other services across a broad range of markets.”
This integrated approach has the potential to revolutionize the A/E/C industry, Barbara notes. “The two foremost challenges facing our clients are uncertainty and technological change,” says Barbara. “The marketplace has grown more complex and global. Governmental regulations, capital reallocation, and market uncertainties impact decision-making and reduce the time span for action. Clients are now demanding work be delivered faster, better coordinated with fewer conflicts.”
Diverse experience
Previously the division vice president for federal programs with Jacobs Global Buildings, Barbara has held senior executive/managing principal positions with CRSS, HOK, ODELL and LS3P. She has led national committees for AIA, CURT, DBIA, and SAME and is the chair of the AIA Integrated Project Delivery Strategy Group and AIA/AGC Joint Committee. She has chaired national and international workshops and conferences including the 2002 AIA National Convention.
Barbara has a BA in Cultural Anthropology and an MA in Architecture from the University of Colorado, and studied at the USACE Contracting Officer’s Training Program and United States War College in Carlisle, PA. She received the SAME Max O. Urban Medal – Outstanding Architect and DOD Charles Trainer Medal – Outstanding Contributions A/E Practice.
Delivering on vision
Barbara is thrilled with the opportunity presented by AECOM. “We’re working to implement a future practice vision into today’s practice standards,” says Barbara. “Our goal is to integrate cohesive, innovative services for clients—and deliver solutions that enhance and sustain the world’s built, natural and social environments.”
“Ultimately, good design is good business,” says Barbara. “It’s how we are measured by our clients, peers and society. Nevertheless, no matter how good the design, if it isn’t built it’s academic. From my experience, establishing a workable plan staffed by dedicated professionals committed to quality is the critical success factor.”
