The design-build delivery model – in which a single contract covers both the design and construction for a project – is becoming increasingly common in our industry. Design-build does more than just streamline the process. It also enables a collaborative, integrated environment where project teams work more closely together to achieve common goals.
At VPCS, we’re very familiar with the design-build approach. Still, we’re always open to sharpening our skills as part of our commitment to professional development. That’s why we recently sent several of our employees to a three-day workshop (also attended by our partners at Arntz Builders and The Motive Studio [formerly CA+SA Studio]), where instructors from the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) did a deep dive into this methodology. These VPCS team members are all now eligible to pursue certification as Design-Build Professionals®.
Here is some of the feedback our people provided about the workshop:
Minh Dao: “The workshop validated how VPCS is really ahead of the curve, because we’ve already managed so many PreK-12 design-build projects even though it’s a relatively new model for that sector. The fact that we’ve been entrusted by our clients to manage their work using this method is big. Design-build can be difficult and complicated but when done right, there is no better outcome. With DBIA certification, it can help reassure owners and potential design-builders that we understand the process, know how to manage the risks and consistently deliver a great end product. VPCS is always looking forward, and this workshop was proof of that.”
Ray Green: “This workshop really affirmed for me that design-build, which VPCS has been doing for a while now, is really the best practice. And these opportunities for professional development are unmeasurably valuable. They drive home that VPCS is committed to serving our clients with cutting-edge services, while also supporting our own team members with the knowledge to do so. Plus, it’s always great to be in the room with our industry partners sharing stories and perspectives on project scenarios that we’ve all seen but might not have worked on together.”
Kelli Van Pelt Jurgenson: “Design-build is growing more and more popular in PreK-12 construction. The focus on collaborative project delivery is really attractive to our clients, and the workshop helped us see design-build through their perspective. We want to make sure our team members are on the leading edge of trends and best practices for this and every delivery method; professional development is a top priority for VPCS. I’m grateful to have incredible team members, both inside and outside of VPCS, who want to continue to learn and hone their skills.”
Brian Cameron: “By understanding how the design-build process works, you can make the process smooth and collaborative for all parties involved – while a lack of familiarity with this method can be a serious detriment. VPCS definitely has a competitive advantage, given our past experience working on design-build projects in addition to how the firm supports our professional development. The workshop was so helpful, as I can apply what I learned directly to a few different active projects I’m currently working on. Sending us to this training is further evidence that VPCS represents the gold standard in this industry.”
Jenny Choi: “The workshop reiterated best practices for the design-build methodology, and explored all the techniques we can use to implement those approaches. It showed us new ways to fold the design-build model into the Van Pelt Way, which focuses on doing whatever it takes to meet our clients’ needs and exceed their expectations. And having some of our partners there was so valuable, as we can always benefit from hearing their perspectives. I love any opportunity to learn and expand my professional knowledge, especially alongside my VPCS colleagues.”
Jennifer Gibb: “We’re always looking for new and better ways to serve our clients and design-build is one of the tools we can utilize to achieve great results for districts and communities. We believe in continuous improvement, and this workshop gave us an even more thorough understanding of how design-build brings opportunities to our clients while promoting collaboration and transparency. It was great having our partners there too, as their perspectives always help us analyze scenarios through every lens. Once again, it all comes down to how our work can boost student achievement. Because it’s all about the kids.”
March 24, 2025