From Childhood Dreams to Architectural Success with James Wesala

Mac & Bleu

Join us as we dive into James Wesala's inspiring journey from childhood dreams to achieving success as an architect. Explore the passion, challenges, and victories that have shaped his career, from teaching at Arizona's State School of Design to his active involvement in industry organizations like the AIA, and hosting his own podcast. Gain valuable insights into the architecture industry, its past, present challenges, and future directions. Don't miss this captivating story of turning dreams into reality!
Podcast also available on MAC & Bleu Youtube Channel - https://youtu.be/sHnKa5qGCJw
About James Wesala
James is a Senior Associate at Richärd | Kennedy Architects and works on international projects overseas and projects throughout the Southwest. James is a licensed Architect in Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas, and has a broad range of typological experience focused on Government, Civic/Public, K-12, and Higher Education projects. His service to the community is exemplified in projects that engage and enrich local communities, uplifting and shaping spaces for people to interact and grow. James earned his Bachelor of Science and Design in Architectural Studies and Master of Architecture at Arizona State University, where he currently is an educator in the Design School, teaching students of several levels in multiple disciplines. His teaching experience includes lecture courses and design studios at undergraduate and graduate levels. James' extracurricular activities include co-hosting/co-producing the "Tracing Architecture" podcast (co-founder). James currently serves the AIA on the Phoenix Metro Chapter’s Board as AIA10 Director (2024-2025) and previously on AIA Arizona’s Board as AIA10 Director (2020-2021). He also serves the profession in other organizations, such as NOMA Arizona and NCARB. Finally, James serves nationally with the National Architectural Accreditation Board participating in accreditation site visits and on the inaugural NAAB Accreditation Review Committee.

MAC & Bleu, your go-to podcast for the innovative minds shaping our nation’s future. Our topics are not only vast but advanced and forward looking, as we explore emerging trends in blockchain, AI, the Metaverse, and both virtual and augmented reality within the construction, business and entrepreneur market segments.

Our conversations are as diverse as they are enlightening, traversing not just the topics of economic development, supply chains, diverse market sectors, and celebrate the rich diversity underpinning each industry. We also dive into the intricate interplay between local politics and business, highlighting the far-reaching impact of political decisions on different market segments. Be sure to subscribe to the MAC & Bleu Youtube Channel

About the Host - JJ Levenske - President & Co-Founder of Bleuwave General Contracting
JJ Levenske is a seasoned construction executive with over 30 years of experience in the commercial & industrial sectors. From pre-construction services to complex quality controls and close-outs, he brings a commitment to delivering the highest levels of professionalism and customer service. J.J.’s dedication to construction has allowed him to become an industry expert which he aims to share with customers and investors alike.

章

1. MAC & Bleu Intro (00:00:00)

2. About James Wesala (00:02:30)

3. Arizona State Teaching Position (00:05:20)

4. 25th Anniversary of Tempe Town Lake (00:08:10)

5. Student Engagement at ASU Today vs Earlier Years (00:11:00)

6. Technology and Architecture (00:15:00)

7. Collaborations & Recruitment (00:17:00)

8. AI & Early Career Opportunities (00:24:20)

9. Helping Students Now - The Design Experience - Soft Skills (00:26:40)

10. Technology Trends and Filling Gaps (00:32:20)

11. AIA Role and Experience (00:34:20)

12. AIA Challenges / Impacts (00:38:50)

13. Tracing Architecture Podcast (00:42:20)

14. Current Challenges in Architecture Industry (00:45:45)

15. Passions, AI & Wrap Up (00:51:08)