Copy of SAE – Marxileni Macasaet-Lapuz

Senior Sustainability Consultant

I work with built environment practitioners – architects, structural engineers, mechanical, electrical and public health engineers – to design and operate buildings in a sustainable way.  Particularly, I perform LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Rating System assessment for buildings of different types – data centres, offices, healthcare and residential.

What does a typical day at work look like for you?

My typical day would be reviewing the architectural and engineering design drawings; attending coordination meetings with other trade designers; writing my findings and uploading submittal documents to GBCI (Green Business Certification Inc., the review party engaged by US Green Building Council)

What advice would you give to your 15 year old self

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.  Read and write a lot.  Hone your communication skills as you would be needing that in fulfilling your duties as an engineer.  Most importantly, be proud of your accomplishments.  Enjoy life!

Who or what inspired you to get into engineering?

My Mam encouraged me to do what I wanted to do and she has always inspired me.

My high-school teacher.

What are your favourite hobbies, or interests?

Crocheting, running, reading.  Whenever the weather permits, I like to go to the park with my daughters.

What are the best and worst things about the job?

The best things about my job is being able to influence the design of a building and make it more friendly to the planet and people.  The worst thing is having to be at the project site in bad weather.

Where do you see your industry in 25 – 50 years time?

I see myself an author of a technical book related to my line of work.  Hopefully, a professor in mechanical engineering educating young engineers with my expertise in sustainable building design and operation.