In this episode, we talk with Rohit Motwani, CCM, PMP, program initiation lead, Americas East at Jacobs, about delivering large-scale infrastructure projects by building strong foundations, aligning stakeholders, and embracing collaborative project delivery models like public-private partnerships.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Rohit:
- What are some of the biggest challenges and most rewarding parts of managing large-scale infrastructure projects?
- When starting a major project, what key steps help set it up for long-term success?
- How do you keep all stakeholders aligned with the project’s goals from the planning stage through to execution?
- How do collaborative project delivery models like public-private partnerships affect how you approach project planning and stakeholder management?
- For project managers who have only worked on smaller projects but want to move into larger ones, what advice would you give them to help them prepare?
- What’s one common mistake you see project managers make in the AEC industry, and how can they avoid or minimize it?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Delivering Large Scale Infrastructure Projects with Confidence:
- Managing large-scale infrastructure projects often means dealing with complex technical, managerial, and stakeholder environments that require strategic coordination. The most rewarding part comes from successfully navigating these challenges and learning from experienced professionals along the way.
- A strong start begins with clearly defining the project’s vision, aligning stakeholders, and building the right processes and governance structure. Taking time to set these foundations early increases the chances of smooth and efficient execution later on.
- Clarity of purpose and consistent communication help create shared understanding across all stakeholder groups. Successful teams invest in early alignment sessions and maintain open communication both inside the project and with external partners.
- Collaborative project delivery models promote open conversations about risks and responsibilities, leading to more balanced relationships among partners. These models support transparency and shared decision-making, which can result in better outcomes for everyone involved.
- Building a strong foundation in core infrastructure project management skills is essential, followed by identifying an area of expertise such as scheduling or risk management. Understanding how to operate within a larger, more structured environment helps prepare for the complexity of bigger projects.
- One common mistake is focusing too much on daily tasks instead of leading with a strategic mindset. Project managers should stay focused on long-term goals, trust their teams, and step back to see the broader picture of where the project is heading.
More Details in This Episode…
About Rohit Motwani, CCM, PMP
Rohit Motwani, program initiation lead for Americas East at Jacobs, leads a team of professionals on major programs globally. He has worked on several global megaprojects in complex environments, including East Side Access, High Frequency Rail, Frederick Douglass Tunnel, Miami-Dade County, New York City Housing Authority, and U.S. Virgin Islands Rebuild. Rohit leads initiation and mobilization teams, establishes program vision and goals, develops governance, and leads delivery strategies for major capital programs. He holds a master’s degree in construction management from Carnegie Mellon University and is part of the MBA in major infrastructure delivery program at University College London Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction.
About the Host
Fiona Johann, PMP, AEC PM
Fiona Johann, PMP, joined The Engineering Management Institute as the strategic initiatives team leader in February 2025. With eight years of experience in developing leadership programs in an academic setting, she brings valuable expertise in planning and executing impactful initiatives. Fiona utilizes her PMP certification and program management skills to oversee events like PM AEC Connect and optimize internal processes for improved efficiency. Based in central North Carolina, she combines her strategic approach with a passion for driving successful outcomes at EMI.
Sources/References:
Jacobs
Engineering News Record Forum—Chicago
University College London
Grand Central Madison
Connect with Rohit Motwani, CCM, PMP, on LinkedIn
AEC PM Certification
AEC PM Connect
Project Management Accelerator™
Engineering Leadership Accelerator™
Keynote Speaking
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