The Coordination Conversation

Jordan & Skala Engineers

Welcome to The Coordination Conversation with Jordan & Skala Engineers—where over 70 years of consulting-engineering expertise becomes an easy conversation. Since 1953, we’ve believed in the power of sharing knowledge to move our industry forward. This podcast continues that legacy, diving into the challenges, innovations, and coordination that shape better, more integrated design. From MEP engineering, BIM, and evolving standards to sustainability and low-voltage systems, we explore the topics that matter most to design professionals. Our goal is simple: to provide insight, spark dialogue, and support the built environment through education and collaboration—just as we’ve always done.

Episodes

  1. OCT 16

    #3 - BIM Game Changers: AutoCAD to Revit — Project Management in the Hot Seat

    In Episode 3 of The Coordination Conversation, Francesca Baker (Project Manager) joins Tom Matzen (BIM Manager) to unpack what really changes when teams move from AutoCAD to Revit. We cover time management vs. detail, why a BIM kickoff is non-negotiable, how to balance live models with publish & consume, the debate on fully populated models, and what’s next with AI in BIM. If you manage MEP projects—or collaborate with architects and structural—this one’s packed with practical takeaways for cleaner drawings, fewer surprises, and on-time deliverables. You’ll learn: The biggest PM shifts moving from CAD to Revit (schedules, coordination, and expectations) How to run BIM kickoffs that prevent last-minute scrambles When to freeze a live model so CDs stay clean and consistent Pros/cons of fully populated models and phased population What JSE’s BIM team is updating (families, tools) to boost model efficiency Where AI can help (LLMs, automation, routing) and what’s realistic—now vs. next Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:38– Project Management in the BIM Era 05:44 – BIM Kickoff Meetings & Why They Matter 11:10 – Fully-Populated Models 16:53 – Favorite Revit Project Experience & What Went Well 20:15 – Live Models 22:46 – What’s JSE’s Updating & AI in BIM About Jordan & Skala Engineers (JSE) We’re a national consulting engineering firm delivering MEP Engineering, Sustainability, and Low Voltage—three consultants under one roof—to streamline coordination and outcomes for our clients. If this episode helped, like, subscribe, and share with your AEC team.  ------------------- Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any video partners or affiliates. All content provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice for any specific project, site, or situation. Project requirements, conditions, and regulations vary, and what is discussed in this video may not apply to your specific circumstances. Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk. Viewers should always consult with a qualified professional before making project-related decisions. Jordan & Skala Engineers assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. This content is the intellectual property of Jordan & Skala Engineers and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used by any third party without the express written permission of JSE. 🎙️ The Coordination Conversation is a podcast by Jordan & Skala Engineers. We’ve been sharing our insight with the A/E/C industry since 1953—and now we’re putting it on the mic. Catch every episode for expert takes on MEP engineering, sustainability, BIM, and low-voltage systems. ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube: youtube.com/@jordanskalaengineers467 🔗 Subscribe for more episodes and industry insights. 📩 Interested in partnering or sponsoring? Email us at atlmarketing@jordanskala.com. #MEPEngineering #AECIndustry #Sustainability #BIM #LowVoltage #TheCoordinationConversation

    27 min
  2. JUL 28

    #2 - When the Rules Change, the Benefits Don’t: Green Building

    In this episode, we unpack the evolving landscape of green building programs from ENERGY STAR and NGBS to LEED and beyond. As federal sustainability policies shift, we dive into the real-world incentives, verification requirements, and performance standards that still make green certifications a smart investment. But this isn’t just about checklists. We explore how sustainability ties directly into the core of engineering, from HVAC system design and envelope performance to long-term energy use and operational cost savings. Whether you're designing to meet code, qualify for incentives, or simply create a better building, the case for smart, efficient systems has never been stronger. Contents of this Video 00:00 - Introduction 00:45 - Changes in Green Programs 03:21 - NGBS (National Green Building Standard) Program 05:49 - NGBS vs. ENERGY STAR 12:26 - LEED for Multi-Family, Core & Shell & Warehouses 16:12 - State/Jurisdictional Requirements & Incentives 19:31 - Energy Modeling 27:23 - Bespoke Programs 30:11 - Existing Building Programs Subscribe for more insights from the front lines of Sustainability, MEP Engineering, Low Voltage Design. ---------- Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any video partners or affiliates. All content provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice for any specific project, site, or situation. Project requirements, conditions, and regulations vary, and what is discussed in this video may not apply to your specific circumstances. Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk. Viewers should always consult with a qualified professional before making project-related decisions. Jordan & Skala Engineers assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. This content is the intellectual property of Jordan & Skala Engineers and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used by any third party without the express written permission of JSE. 🎙️ The Coordination Conversation is a podcast by Jordan & Skala Engineers. We’ve been sharing our insight with the A/E/C industry since 1953—and now we’re putting it on the mic. Catch every episode for expert takes on MEP engineering, sustainability, BIM, and low-voltage systems. ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube: youtube.com/@jordanskalaengineers467 🔗 Subscribe for more episodes and industry insights. 📩 Interested in partnering or sponsoring? Email us at atlmarketing@jordanskala.com. #MEPEngineering #AECIndustry #Sustainability #BIM #LowVoltage #TheCoordinationConversation

    35 min
  3. JUN 3

    #1 - MEP Industry Disruptors

    MEP Industry Disruptors | Ep. 1 | The Coordination Conversation with Jordan & Skala Engineers The mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering world is undergoing rapid change—and if you’re in the building industry, you need to be ready. In this first episode of The Coordination Conversation by Jordan & Skala Engineers, we break down the most critical disruptors shaping MEP today. Contents of this podcast: 00:00 - Intro 01:30 - A2L Transitions 11:30 - 2021 Codes 16:50 - Tariff Impacts 18:45 - Construction Administration Changes ---------- A2L Refrigerant Transition Discussion on the latest EPA regulations, compliance deadlines, and how design teams are navigating the shift from R-410A to low-GWP A2L refrigerants—especially in VRF systems. 2021 Energy Code Overhaul The new IECC update is reshaping how teams approach energy modeling, lighting, and HVAC strategies. Learn how we've leverage the code for compliance and cost savings. Construction Administration Trends With tighter timelines and more RFIs, construction admin has changed. We explore the rise of submittal parties and how design teams can adapt without compromising quality. Why It Matters: These changes aren't just technical—they affect cost, coordination, compliance, and overall project success. Our experts share strategies to stay ahead of the curve. Subscribe for more insights from the front lines of MEP engineering. ---------- Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any video partners or affiliates. All content provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice for any specific project, site, or situation. Project requirements, conditions, and regulations vary, and what is discussed in this video may not apply to your specific circumstances. Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk. Viewers should always consult with a qualified professional before making project-related decisions. Jordan & Skala Engineers assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. This content is the intellectual property of Jordan & Skala Engineers and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used by any third party without the express written permission of JSE. 🎙️ The Coordination Conversation is a podcast by Jordan & Skala Engineers. We’ve been sharing our insight with the A/E/C industry since 1953—and now we’re putting it on the mic. Catch every episode for expert takes on MEP engineering, sustainability, BIM, and low-voltage systems. ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube: youtube.com/@jordanskalaengineers467 🔗 Subscribe for more episodes and industry insights. 📩 Interested in partnering or sponsoring? Email us at atlmarketing@jordanskala.com. #MEPEngineering #AECIndustry #Sustainability #BIM #LowVoltage #TheCoordinationConversation

    28 min

About

Welcome to The Coordination Conversation with Jordan & Skala Engineers—where over 70 years of consulting-engineering expertise becomes an easy conversation. Since 1953, we’ve believed in the power of sharing knowledge to move our industry forward. This podcast continues that legacy, diving into the challenges, innovations, and coordination that shape better, more integrated design. From MEP engineering, BIM, and evolving standards to sustainability and low-voltage systems, we explore the topics that matter most to design professionals. Our goal is simple: to provide insight, spark dialogue, and support the built environment through education and collaboration—just as we’ve always done.