Ryan Huynh is a Project Manager who has been with us for over three years. Ryan loves to challenge himself in all aspects of his job. He takes projects head-on and brings a unique perspective that collectively makes us stronger.
Learn more about Ryan:
Describe your journey becoming a project manager
“I graduated during the economic crash of 2008 and ended up getting completely out of the field of landscape architecture for several years. After getting a chance to get back in, I took it. Coming back to it was a big challenge with everything feeling like it was my first day in the field all over again. ‘What is AutoCAD, InDesign, and Photoshop?’ Each of the companies I’ve worked for since has provided me with valuable experiences and opportunities that have challenged me in my pursuit of becoming a Project Manager. Ever since I’ve entered Landscape Architecture, there’s always something new to be learned.”
Why did you want to join the LandStudio360 team?
“I happened to come across LandStudio360’s website and appreciated their “boutique” size that emphasized a customer-forward approach, but with a very professional touch (project presentations, concept plans, and construction documents) – it really interested me. From my interview with them, the personality of the team and the aspect of being given more involvement with projects was what made me want to join the team.”
What is your favorite aspect of being a project manager?
“My favorite aspect of being a project manager is the opportunity to be involved with every aspect of the project; from assisting in producing the plans to interacting with consultants and clients.”
What is your biggest challenge and how do you work through these challenges to get the job done?
“We pride ourselves on providing a very high level of communication and coordination throughout the project’s development. As a result, I’d probably have to say my biggest challenge would be ensuring that I remain on top of everything and everyone involved in each project I manage. It’s not that it’s difficult, it’s just that it needs to be thorough every time. The coordination with the team isn’t just writing up an e-mail or a quick response back, there is often quite a bit of work behind it. It could be looking back into older correspondence, documents, and/or a new coordination with one or more consultants to keep the project progressing smoothly.”
How does project management differ in your industry, compared to others?
“What I’ve noticed that is quite different in landscape architecture compared to other industries is the involvement with multiple disciplines. It is common that you’re working with other professionals from other fields such as architects, civil engineers, the city, the developer, structural engineers, product manufacturers, etc. It is not only that you’re working with them, but you need to be knowledgeable of what they’re doing as well.”
What drew you into landscape architecture?
“Mostly the opportunity to work on projects that would have a positive impact on my community.”
As a Project Manager, how do you work with and support the other members of LandStudio360 to create great work?
“As a Project Manager, I try my best to stay positive and make sure I’m making my self available to be of assistance to other team members that might need help. When an issue arises to work with the other members to get it resolved. Communication, working hard, and flexibility are needed elements to make a team stronger, which contributes to great work.”
Describe a project that forced you to think outside the box, challenged you, or changed your perspective in order to be a better project manager?
“Podium projects, in general, challenge me every time. The details and amount of information that need to be meticulously coordinated are quite different than a standard on-grade landscape project. I do feel that every podium project provides me with quite a bit of experience and changes my views on how to tackle a project.”
How does the project management team work together and support one another?
“Communication and flexibility are important in working together and supporting one another. Weekly team meetings, project plan reviews, asking questions when you don’t know something, or providing answers to one another are a few types of communication that promotes teamwork. When it comes to supporting each other and flexibility is the key.”
Our Project Management team is a vital part of our success at LandStudio360. Every day, they continuously bring new ideas to the table while creating strategies that make our projects outstanding.
Interested in joining our project management team? Reach out to us.
