In this episode, I talk with Tony Barreras, PMP, Owner at AJB Enterprise Holdings, Inc, about how hybrid project management in AEC is shaking up traditional workflows, the secret to keeping teams motivated for the long haul, and how scaling innovation in project management can unlock serious savings and game-changing results.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Tony:
- What made you decide to use agile methods in traditional brownfield projects, and how did your team react to that change?
- Would you say agile project management is really just about being flexible and adjusting as you go?
- Why do you think psychological safety in engineering teams is so important for performance, and how do personal relationships help create that kind of environment?
- What are some effective ways you’ve found to keep teams motivated over the long term, especially using recognition and feedback.
- Can you explain how your Innovation Network worked, what made it so successful, and how other AEC leaders can create a similar culture of innovation?
- What’s one of the biggest mistakes you see project managers make, and how can they avoid or overcome it?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Hybrid Project Management in AEC Is Revolutionizing Workflows and Driving Results:
- Hybrid project management in AEC works well in brownfield environments by helping teams stay flexible, manage overlapping scopes, and improve daily coordination. While initial resistance is common, teams begin to see the value as communication and adaptability improve.
- Agile in construction projects creates flexibility by organizing work into small, trackable pieces and adjusting priorities as needed. This approach allows teams to stay aligned and maintain momentum even when project conditions change.
- Psychological safety in engineering teams helps members speak openly, solve problems faster, and stay aligned on goals. Strong relationships build trust, which makes it easier to communicate obstacles and work through conflict productively.
- Long-term motivation improves when project work connects to each person’s career goals and growth opportunities. When team members feel seen and supported, they remain committed and perform at a higher level.
- The Innovation Network succeeds by making idea sharing simple, asking for business value upfront, and using agile methods to act on ideas quickly. Clear templates, visible recognition, and leadership support help keep participation high and momentum strong.
- Project managers often block progress by trying to control too much or failing to support their teams. Success depends on listening, keeping promises, and stepping back, so the team can do their best work.
More Details in This Episode…
About Tony Barreras, PMP
Tony Barreras is a seasoned project and program management leader with over 30 years of experience across the energy transition, oil and gas, chemicals, logistics, textiles, and food processing industries. He has led initiatives for global EPCm firms, integrating hybrid agile methods into traditional project environments and developing scalable project delivery systems.
A certified PMP since 1998, Tony has supported over 100 projects with expertise in execution planning, risk analysis, and value improvement practices. He founded a Project Management Academy to train and develop future leaders, and launched an innovation network that delivered over $500K in savings in its first year. Tony is also a published author, public speaker, and active community leader, known for blending technical excellence with a passion for mentoring and team development.
Sources/References:
AJB Enterprise Holdings
Bechtel
Honeywell
SAP
Wood
Connect with Tony Barreras, PMP, on LinkedIn
AEC PM Certification
AEC PM Connect
Project Management Accelerator™
Engineering Leadership Accelerator™
Keynote Speaking
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