Architecture is an exciting field with new challenges to explore every day. If you’re exploring a new career path in architecture, project management is something to consider.

Like other aspects of architecture, project management offers a fascinating blend of creativity, technical expertise, and management skills. This unique profession appeals to those who love the idea of taking a project from concept to completion, while overseeing every intricate detail in between.

Architectural project managers get to work closely with clients, bringing their visions to life through innovative designs, while also coordinating with various team members and stakeholders to ensure a seamless process.

If you’re interested in a career that combines artistic flair with real-world problem-solving and a healthy dose of teamwork, keep reading for an inside look into an architectural project manager’s typical day.

This month we’re featuring Alex Rigopoulos (Architectural Associate) as he shares his day-to-day experience with architectural project management.

A Typical Day at the Office

Project management offers a wide range of daily tasks and responsibilities, so no two days look exactly the same! However, as Alex shares, there is a rhythm to each day as he works with his team to ensure multiple projects continue to run smoothly, on time, and on budget.

Morning Routine

One thing that architectural project management has in common with many other professions is that most days begin with email. Alex spends the first hour or so of his day catching up on messages from clients, builders, and other people involved in the projects he’s supervising. This routine helps him prioritize his time for the day and update his to-do list so nothing falls through the cracks.

As the morning progresses, Alex tackles his to do’s in order of priority, dealing with urgent items first and sharing critical information with others involved in his projects. 

Setting Up Each Day for Success

After the most pressing tasks are complete, Alex devotes the next part of his day to moving projects forward. He also spends time with student-interns, providing key insight and knowledge into the inner workings of project management life.

As Alex winds down his day, he checks off any other to-dos he can and preps for the following day at the office. This proactive organization and workflow helps him stay productive and efficient as he tackles multiple projects simultaneously.

Project Variety is the Spice of Life

George Armour Ewart, Architect has numerous projects going at any one time — often in different stages of development — and a project manager is privy to it all!

“My projects vary in both the type of project and the phase it is in,” Alex says. That means he may be working on schematics, construction drawings and specifications, and construction administration at different points throughout the day.

“Currently, we’re working on new apartment buildings, churches, manufacturing and office spaces, athletic facilities, as well as some medical office renovation projects,” he explains.

For each of these different projects, he follows the progress closely, relaying information to drafters, construction crew chiefs, consultants, and suppliers. And he does all of this while staying in constant communication with the clients.

Job Site Supervision

One of the most important aspects of what Alex does as an architectural project manager is to supervise the construction process to make sure that the building process is following the specifications listed in the construction documents. This ensures that the finished project is completed to the highest standards of quality.

Occasionally, this work will take Alex out to a job site. But his primary workspace is in the office. “Most of my time is in the office unless there is a project meeting or I need to conduct a field observation report for a project under construction,” he says.

Advice for Aspiring Architectural Project Managers

For those who are thinking about entering the architecture field or advancing their career by moving into a project management role, Alex has some words of wisdom:

“Become familiar with the different environments architects work in. Then decide where you’d like to fit within a firm’s structure, as well as in the project management process. Would you rather be in a large firm, where you may only be responsible for one aspect of a big project? Or would you rather work in a smaller firm, where you can take ownership of an entire project?”

For Alex, one of the best things about being part of GAEA is the culture that the team has forged. “I believe our family-like approach to business is hard to find in other firms,” he shares. “It’s all about finding the right people and firm for you.”

A Love for the Mountains

Alex has lived all over the U.S., from large cities like New York and Chicago to small college towns like Oshkosh, Wisconsin. He decided to make East Tennessee (more specifically, the mountains of Gatlinburg) his home because of the balance of climate, culture, and quality of life the area has to offer. 

Are you looking to start or advance a career in Knoxville or a surrounding area? Interested in honing your project management skills in a creative, collaborative environment?

Contact us to learn more about any open positions and see if a role with GAEA is right for you!