Who I Talked to This Month
Since joining Golden Egg Concepts, one of the things I’ve come to appreciate the most is the opportunity to connect with the many fascinating professionals in the AEC space. My curiosity runs deep—I love exploring new ideas, diving into Wikipedia rabbit holes, or cracking open a book—and these conversations give me the chance to do all of that while learning about what our clients do, how they work, and who they are beyond their titles. What motivates them? How did they land in this field? And what brings them joy outside the office or construction site?
Every month brings new insights, and this month was no exception. Here’s a look at some of the incredible people I spoke with, why I spoke with them, and the stories they shared.
Kevin Budd – Duffy Engineering
Kevin Budd is new to Duffy Engineering, and I spoke with him to develop a web bio and to explore building envelope restoration and the nuances of preserving historic and high-performance buildings. Kevin, Senior Building Envelope Consultant at Duffy Engineering, blends technical expertise with relationship-building, guiding projects and growing Duffy’s New York office. After earning his architecture degree from Syracuse University, Kevin found his true passion in the hands-on work of making buildings last. His experience includes restoring landmarks like New York Public Library’s Schwarzman Building, balancing design, compliance, and constructability.
Eileen Eagle – Construction Solutions Group (CSG)
I took some time to chat with Eileen Eagle to learn about the FF&E process in school construction projects. As Project Manager at CSG, one of Eileen’s goals is to ensure that furniture, fixtures, and equipment arrive on time, installed, and ready for students on day one. She walked me through the complexities of planning, logistics, and coordination, using projects like South Norwalk School as examples. For Eileen, FF&E is about creating adaptable, functional, and engaging learning environments, where planning and communication turn the chaos of summer installations into a seamless start to the school year.
Chris Canna – Corporation for Independent Living (CIL)
I spoke with Chris Canna for two pieces in CIL’s annual report: Think Like a Developer: 5 Things to Consider Before Starting Your Next Project and Real Estate Considerations for a Merger & Acquisition. CIL has spent over 45 years helping care providers secure homes within the community, navigating complex real estate challenges so that residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities can live independently and fully participate in society. Chris’s insights demonstrated the intersection of real estate strategy and social impact, highlighting the planning and foresight needed for projects that truly serve communities.
Gene Guidi, Dan Beerhalter – E.P. Guidi, Inc.
I spoke with Gene Guidi and Dan Beerhalter to better understand best practices in general contracting and construction management across a wide variety of sectors. Founded in 1933, E.P. Guidi, Inc. has earned a reputation for quality workmanship, timely project completion, and client satisfaction. Their decades of experience underscore the importance of consistency, trust, and long-term relationships in managing complex projects throughout the Northeast.
Jason Beach – HRP Associates, Inc.
Jason Beach, Principal & Regional Manager at HRP, shared with me some insights about the sun setting of the Transfer Act and what’s next with Connecticut’s Release-Based Cleanup Regulations (RBCRs). Jason helps clients navigate evolving environmental regulations and achieve their engineering goals. HRP’s collaborative, innovative, and sustainable approach ensures clients are fully involved at every step, and Jason’s guidance on these regulatory shifts highlighted both challenges and opportunities for organizations working in Connecticut’s regulated environment.
Manny Ferreira – KCM Group
I spoke with Manny Ferreira about Newport Housing Authority projects and the importance of careful owner’s project management. KCM Group has overseen over $2 billion in construction and capital improvement projects across Rhode Island, providing leadership at every phase—from planning and design to procurement, construction, and closeout. Manny’s insights emphasized the coordination, foresight, and local expertise required to deliver projects that meet both budget and community needs.
Every conversation this month reinforced that the AEC industry is about more than concrete, steel, and blueprints. It’s about people, problem-solving, and creating spaces that last. From building envelopes to FF&E, real estate strategy to environmental consulting, the professionals I spoke with reminded me that innovation and human connection are always at the heart of great work.