Rendering Insights with Meghan Craig

What inspired you to pursue this career, and how did you get started in the industry?

My first Data Center project was an Infomart renovation and expansion project in Hillsboro, OR, in 2015. The project was a design-build project delivery, and we were hired by DPR Construction. During the design phase of the project, there were weekly BIM Collaboration/Clash Detection meetings. The level of collaboration required between disciplines is what hooked me.

Meghan's smile says it all: Another day, another data center designed.

What motivates you to come to work every day, and how do you stay engaged and passionate about your work?

To be and stay engaged in what you do, I believe you have to understand it. This level of understanding of Mission Critical building systems can be more in-depth than that of a typical building. Understanding the mechanical and electrical systems required for a Data Center/Telecommunications Facility is core to understanding our role in designing the spaces around them.

How do you approach problem-solving in your work, and what methods do you find to be most effective?

In an early studio course in college, I remember the professor requiring us to define the problems our designs would solve. To solve a problem, you need to define it and remember the problems you are working on solving as you go through each design and documentation phase. I am very methodical.

What are some of your favorite memories from your time working here, and why were they special to you?

At Jackson | Main, we have a host of avenues for information and knowledge sharing among each other. I enjoy all of our professional development opportunities, which include brown bags, lunch and learns, homerooms, and sector meetings. I find these critical for building our shared knowledge as a firm, enabling us to better serve our clients.

What is one thing you wish you could change about our industry or the way we work, and how do you think we could make progress toward that change?

The majority of the clients I work with are well-versed in the AEC industry and understand the value architects and designers bring to every project. However, there have been occasional projects where the client lacks experience in the industry and, therefore, has a difficult time recognizing that value. Our industry needs to continue advocating for our services and educating our clients on the value we bring.

What is one thing that you think sets you apart from others in your field, and how do you leverage that strength in your work?

I am a self-proclaimed perfectionist with an obvious interest in the details. I enjoy delving into the building code and finding solutions to meet the project goals.

Out on the trails, Meghan finds joy beside an impressive waterfall.

What is one thing that you would like to achieve in your career in the next five years, and how are you working towards that goal?

In the next five years, I aim to increase my knowledge of MEP systems in Data Center and Telecommunication Facilities, continue to build the Mission Critical sector at Jackson | Main (JMA), and enhance my professional profile in the Mission Critical sector. Since joining JMA, I have predominantly focused on project management and production; however, within the last year, I have started to shift more towards business development. It’s a new area for me, but I am realizing just how critical the relationships I've developed on projects over the years truly are.

What’s the best advice you were ever given?

A favorite piece of advice I've received is: when asked a question about the industry, the code, the schedule—anything—if you don't know the answer, don't pretend that you do. Say you don't know but that you'll look into it—that's OK. And then make sure to follow up. I think this approach is impactful, memorable, and demonstrates our value as problem solvers.

If you had to go with a different career path, what would it be, and why?

I have a Bachelor of Science in Architecture with a Minor in Interior Design and a Master of Architecture. In college, I considered pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree. Post-college, I've thought about obtaining a Structural Engineering degree. If I were not involved in the AEC industry, I would be working in finance.