Special Guest - Nate Bergen - From Brock Commons to BCIT Mass Timber Construction and Education

Prepare to be inspired by Nate, a leading expert in the mass timber industry, as he takes us on a journey through his fascinating career path. From his humble beginnings at a sawmill to contributing to the groundbreaking Brock Commons project, Nate's story is one of innovation and collaboration. He offers a unique glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the mass timber construction world, emphasizing the crucial role of early collaboration with architects and engineers and the revolutionary use of a unified 3D model.

We explore the evolving landscape of construction education programs, with Nate sharing his experiences working on high-profile projects like Google MT1. The conversation shifts to his transition into education, where he’s making waves at the British Columbia Institute of Technology by developing a curriculum that bridges the skills gap in the industry. The need for hybrid installers who combine carpentry and ironworking skills is just one of the exciting developments Nate touches on, as well as potential international collaborations with programs in places like Australia.

In a refreshing change of pace, Nate also opens up about the personal challenges and lessons learned from managing large projects, including a major office building for Google in Silicon Valley. As the episode wraps up, Nate offers some light-hearted insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle amidst the demands of construction life. His personal anecdotes serve as a motivational reminder of the importance of integrating fitness into daily routines, leaving listeners with both practical advice and an inspiring call to action.

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