Copeland BEC Podcast - Pushing the Envelope

Pushing the Envelope is about making buildings better. We'll talk about architecture, engineering and construction as well as building science and how all of this goes into making more durable, comfortable and efficient buildings.

The podcast is hosted by Matt Copeland, PE, RRC and sponsored by Copeland Building Envelope Consulting, Inc.

Watch here!

#11: Patrick Huelman—Building Science Education, AI, and Walleye Fishing

On our latest Podcast episode, we’re joined by Patrick (Pat) Huelman for a thoughtful conversation on the evolving world of building science. We touch on everything from walleye fishing to the influence of AI in education, but the heart of the discussion is about the importance of foundational building science knowledge—and why it needs a stronger presence in architectural education.

Heidi Ellsworth  — Women in Roofing, A Family Industry, Innovation (Episode #10)

In the latest episode, Matt Copeland and Chelsey Line are joined by industry leader Heidi Ellsworth, who brings over 25 years of experience in roofing sales, marketing, and community building. Heidi, a founding member of National Women in Roofing (NWIR) and partner at RoofersCoffeeShop, shares her career journey, insights on empowering women in roofing, and her vision for the industry’s future.

Samir Ibrahim — 40 Years of Roofing, Real Sustainability, Air and Vapor Barriers, IIBEC (Episode #9)

We’re excited to announce this episode, featuring industry veteran Samir Ibrahim. With over 40 years of experience at Carlisle Construction Materials, Samir offers invaluable insights into the world of roofing, sustainability, and building envelopes. His fascination with the industry began in his childhood, fueling his lifelong passion for innovation in applications and methods that ensure excellence from the start.

Samir shares personal stories from growing up in Alexandria, Egypt, and reflects on complex projects like the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. He discusses strategies for solving roofing and waterproofing challenges, emphasizing the importance of addressing ‘gray areas’ in design and the crucial link between sustainability and durability. Throughout his career, Samir has worked with momentum, never arguing with nature, which he believes always works. His commitment to both his craft and the people within the industry has driven his incredible growth in both volume and variety, making him a leading figure in the field. Samir also shares his passion for mentoring the next generation of roofing professionals, ensuring the future of the industry remains bright. 

Non-Destructive Testing, Infrared, and AI (Episode #8)

In this podcast episode, we dive into the innovative world of non-destructive testing (NDT), infrared technology, and artificial intelligence (AI). Join Peter Brooks and Mike Cioffi from IR Analyzers, and Kevin Kennedy from Harvard University, as we explore how these cutting-edge tools are transforming building maintenance and safety.

Celebrating Women in Engineering: A Special Podcast Episode

In honor of International Women in Engineering Day on June 23rd, we’re thrilled to release a special episode — Paving the Way for Women in Engineering. This episode shines a spotlight on the inspiring women at CopelandBEC who are leading and innovating in the field of Building Envelope Consulting.

Join us as we share the stories of these professionals who are making their mark in a historically male-dominated industry. Their experiences offer fresh perspectives and valuable insights that highlight the vital roles they play both in the office and out in the field.

Air Barriers vs. Vapor Barriers – Fight! (Episode #5)

Episode 5 of the podcast is a discussion of air barriers, vapor barriers, and the building science fundamentals of how water moves via bulk air flow (advection) and vapor diffusion.

Drone Photography with Mindi Sokoloski (Episode #4)

Unmanned aerial photography, aka “drone” photography, is becoming more prevalent in many building-related applications including design, investigations and construction. We’ve made extensive use of drones for building envelope inspections on several projects. That’s why when we had an opportunity to make a podcast about drone photography we jumped at it.

Roof Wind Design with Jennifer Keegan, Jim Kirby and Ben Meyer (Episode #3)

Why do some roofs end up in the parking lot? Learn the answer to that question and much more in this this information-packed episode where I discuss the ins and outs of wind uplift design for low-slope roofing with Jennifer Keegan, James R. Kirby and Benjamin Meyer of the GAF Building & Roofing Science team.

We walked through the process and talked about what each member of the project team is responsible for. There is a ton of great content here for anyone designing or installing low-slope roofing. Even if you are experienced in this area you might learn something new.

Adrian Lowenstein on High Performance Construction, BERDO, Local Law 97 and Energy Codes (#2)

In this episode we discuss how the AEC industry can move towards higher performance and lower energy use, including a couple of relatively new local ordinances: Building Energy Reporting and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO) in Boston and Local Law 97 in New York City.

We also touch on topics such as pre-fabricated pre-glazed wall construction techniques, the opportunities for higher performance afforded by advancing technology and project team relationships that lead to better project outcomes.

Introducing the Pushing the Envelope Podcast

Since we love building science, building envelope technology, and high performance construction we started a podcast! All the cool kids have a podcast these days so why not us?

The show is about making buildings better. We’ll talk about architecture, engineering and construction as well as building science and how all of this goes into making more durable, comfortable and efficient buildings. It’s hosted by CopelandBEC Principal Matt Copeland and will feature guests from around the industry.

In the first episode Matt talks with Ken Kiefer of SIGA North America. Matt and Ken discuss a variety of topics including Ken’s work on a recent passive house project in Cambridge, MA, what contractors and designers are looking for from manufacturers of high performance building materials, and some of the resources available at SIGA’s High-Performance Construction Academy.

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