The Architectural Technologist

jonathanpickup

We teach Architectural technologists, and we talk about what needs to be taught, the reasons why things need to be taught, and what things are coming up in the future.

  1. Bridging Digital Literacy Gaps in Modern Architectural Education

    6D AGO

    Bridging Digital Literacy Gaps in Modern Architectural Education

    In this episode of The Architectural Technologist, Jonathan is joined by Ethan to explore the critical role of digital literacy among modern architecture students. They dive into the challenges faced by students in navigating traditional file systems versus the user-friendly interfaces of smartphones and Chromebooks. The discussion underscores the disconnect in digital competencies that surface when students transition from high school to higher education and professional environments, largely attributed to the heavy reliance on digital platforms that simplify file management like Google Docs and Chromebooks. Ethan and Jonathan highlight the gap in students' understanding of basic file management and documentation skills, crucial for successful navigation in professional architectural settings. As architectural firms increasingly depend on BIM and CAD software, expertise in directory structures, file naming, and documentation processes is more pertinent than ever. Through a thoughtful examination of current educational practices, they propose a stronger emphasis on digital literacy at all educational levels to prepare students for the technological demands of the modern workplace. This episode is a must-listen for educators, students, and professionals seeking insights into the future of architectural education and the importance of bridging digital competency gaps.

    15 min
  2. Welcome to 2026

    MAR 1

    Welcome to 2026

    Jonathan and Ethan return with renewed enthusiasm for their 2026 Architectural Technologist podcast, promising an increased focus on AI and digital literacy in architecture. They discuss the potential impact of AI on technical writing, CAD workflows, and student learning, highlighting new ideas for integrating AI into architectural practices. Interviews with industry experts, including chemical engineers, promise to delve into technical specifics like concrete strength. Despite past burnout, Jonathan and Ethan are eager to share insights and innovations, beginning with an exploration of digital literacy among modern students. Subscribe now for fresh perspectives on architectural technology.

    8 min
  3. Teaching Coding: A Crucial Skill for Future Architects

    11/30/2025

    Teaching Coding: A Crucial Skill for Future Architects

    n this episode of the Architectural Technologist Podcast, hosts Jonathan and Ethan dive into an enlightening discussion with Max Renshaw Fox about the intersection of architecture, coding, and education technology. Max shares his unique journey from teaching to architectural technology, emphasizing the invaluable skill of coding in the architectural realm. The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of architectural software, discussing the role of coding languages such as Pascal, Python, and visual programming languages like Marionette. The hosts and Max explore the critical importance of coding literacy for students in architectural technology programs. They discuss how mastering coding can empower students to transcend the limitations of architectural software, enabling them to innovate and customize tools for their creative processes. With insights into how iterative design and parametric modeling can enhance creative outputs, the dialogue emphasizes the indispensable role of structured thinking and problem-solving skills. Touching on the impact of AI in coding, Max illustrates how AI serves as a force multiplier that requires human creativity and direction for optimal use. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxrenshawfox/

    34 min
  4. Exploring BIM's Future and Opportunities

    09/29/2025

    Exploring BIM's Future and Opportunities

    Welcome to the Architectural Technologist Podcast! Host Jonathan dives into an engaging discussion with Jake Nash about the future of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in New Zealand. Jake, freshly appointed as National Vice Chair at BIMIN NZ, brings valuable insights into the evolving landscape of BIM technologies and processes. In this episode, listeners will discover how BIMIN NZ is driving the adoption of BIM and hear impactful anecdotes on fostering student engagement and ongoing education in the industry. In their conversation, Jonathan and Jake explore the critical distinctions between BIM as a process and its common misconceptions as merely a software tool. Jake emphasizes the ongoing shift towards cloud-based BIM solutions, underscoring the necessity for open-source tools and interoperability between different software systems to ensure seamless collaboration. They cover significant discussions around intellectual property (IP) concerns and how these perspectives are changing with the progression toward BIM 2.0 and cloud-based environments. This session is a must-listen for those seeking to understand the latest BIM innovations and the importance of industry-wide knowledge sharing. BIMIN NZ is a volunteer group championing the adoption and use of BIM and digital tools in New Zealand's architecture and construction industries. BIM is often misunderstood as a software tool like Revit; in reality, BIM is a comprehensive process. The industry is progressively moving towards cloud-based BIM solutions, which necessitate changing perspectives on intellectual property sharing and management. Open-source tools like Blender BIM could play a significant role in the future of BIM by offering customizable and accessible solutions. Networking, collaboration, and continuous learning through events and industry interactions are vital for emerging professionals in the architecture and construction fields. Links: BIMinNZ: https://www.biminnz.co.nz

    15 min
  5. From Technician to Innovator: The Journey in Architectural Technology

    09/22/2025

    From Technician to Innovator: The Journey in Architectural Technology

    In this enlightening episode of the Architectural Technologist Podcast, host Jonathan sits down with Jake, a visionary in architectural technology and digital transformation. From his academic beginnings to his prominent role at Warren and Mahoney Architects, Jake shares his dynamic career journey, emphasizing his experience in digital innovation and building information modeling (BIM). The conversation delves into the importance of evolving with technology in architecture, offering listeners a glimpse into the future of digital transformation. Jake's story is packed with insights and inspiration, making it a must-listen for aspiring architectural technologists. With a keen focus on the intricacies of BIM and the challenges of implementing new digital processes within large firms, this episode provides invaluable lessons on embracing change and fostering a culture of learning. Jake's engaging anecdotes, such as his pivotal decision to pivot towards Revit software, illustrate the critical intersection of bold decision-making and industry evolution. The discussion also touches on Jake's distinguished TEDx talk, where he explored urban design as a tool for enhancing mental health, revealing his multifaceted approach to architecture. Jake underscores the significance of continuous learning and adaptability in the evolving field of architectural technology. He discusses the transition from traditional CAD to advanced BIM processes at Warren and Mahoney, highlighting the necessity of staying ahead in a competitive industry. Jake emphasizes the value of being proactive and taking risks, demonstrated by his strategic pivot to Revit for a major project. The TEDx talk experience broadened Jake's presentation skills, teaching him to engage audiences by connecting at a personal level. For aspiring technologists, Jake advises cultivating enthusiasm, valuing teamwork, and taking pride in one's work, regardless of the task at hand.

    25 min
  6. Embracing Open BIM and Future Trends in Architectural Technology

    09/08/2025

    Embracing Open BIM and Future Trends in Architectural Technology

    Join Jonathan as he welcomes back Biplab Sarkar, former CEO of Vectorworks, to explore the future of Building Information Modeling (BIM). They delve into the significance of open BIM, the evolving landscape of CAD and BIM software, and the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advances like AI and cloud-based platforms. They discuss the necessity of digital literacy in architectural education and the shifting paradigms in design and construction. This engaging conversation provides valuable insights into how technology is reshaping the architectural industry and what it means for future architects and engineers. links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/biplab-sarkar-01212515/

    18 min
  7. Transforming Vectorworks: Biplab Sarkar on Leadership and Innovation

    09/01/2025

    Transforming Vectorworks: Biplab Sarkar on Leadership and Innovation

    Jonathan welcomes Biplab Sarkar, former CEO of Vectorworks, to discuss his impactful career journey and contributions to the company. Sarkar shares insights from his prior roles in mechanical CAD and his move to Vectorworks, detailing the improvements he spearheaded, such as the transition to the Parasolid engine and the implementation of viewports. He reflects on transforming company culture and structure, and emphasizes the importance of innovation and collaboration. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the strategic and technical advancements that have shaped Vectorworks' evolution. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/biplab-sarkar-01212515/

    23 min
  8. Students Like BIM But The Learning Curve is Steep

    08/25/2025

    Students Like BIM But The Learning Curve is Steep

    In this enlightening episode, Jonathan and Ethan delve into the insights from a recent research article on the acceptance and learning experiences of Building Information Modeling (BIM) among students at Australian universities. The conversation sheds light on the technological acceptance model that evaluates student responses to BIM as a tool for infrastructure design and management. With an impressive survey response rate, the discussion emphasizes how future professionals, especially civil engineering and construction management students, perceive the integration of BIM as a productivity-enhancing asset. The episode is packed with intriguing findings about the learning curve of BIM software and the distinct perspectives from varying educational backgrounds, such as civil engineering, construction management, and architecture. Jonathan and Ethan discuss the imbalanced distribution of the survey among students and explore the implications of this on the research findings. The conversation touches upon the nuances of teaching BIM at the university level and the challenges students face in correlating practical knowledge with BIM software capabilities. They highlight the potential improvements for educational frameworks to better prepare students for the industry. BIM technology is perceived as highly productive, with 93% of respondents acknowledging its benefits, but there remains a challenge in bridging the learning gap. A substantial disparity exists between students who will benefit from BIM and those tasked with creating intricate models, such as architecture students. The research underscores a positive attitude towards BIM despite its steep learning curve, suggesting future enthusiasm for its applications in industry. Survey results show an uneven distribution of responses among different disciplines, highlighting the necessity for targeted research methodologies in future studies. Integrating more exploratory qualitative research and enhancing educational resources are recommended to address industry competency gaps and prepare students effectively. Links: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/15/11/1804

    15 min
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We teach Architectural technologists, and we talk about what needs to be taught, the reasons why things need to be taught, and what things are coming up in the future.

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