Bringing Sustainability to Aviation

Josiah Ott (EMDC '25) oversees complex construction projects for the aviation industry as a senior project manager at J.A. Watts.  

Like many project managers, Ott's job is to manage the entire project lifecycle, from initial design and planning to execution and handover. The challenge of the job is amplified, however, by the always-on nature of most aviation facilities, meaning it's up to Ott to ensure minimal disruptions to ongoing operations. 

It's that added challenge that keeps Ott inspired. 

"I’m most excited about solving the unique challenges that arise from working in mission-critical environments like airports and industrial facilities," he said. "The complexities of managing projects within these environments are truly unique due to the need to work around 24/7 operations, ensuring that the facility remains functional while construction continues. Being part of the team that successfully navigates these challenges to deliver high-quality, on-time projects is what drives my passion for the work." 

Sustainability is a growing priority in the built environment sector, particularly in aviation, Ott said. He recently attended Northwestern’s Built Environment Exchange (BuiltX) to learn how he could better integrate sustainable practices into his ongoing projects.  

BuiltX, a series of idea forums and networking events, is organized by Northwestern Engineering’s Master of Science in Executive Management for Design and Construction (EMDC) program. The event featured a panel discussion titled "Collaborative Strategies for Net-Zero: Uniting Industry Commitments in the Built Environment." The panel included:  

• Deana Haynes, vice president of US market development and transformation for the US Green Building Council (moderator) 
• Nathan Kipnis, principal at Nathan Kipnis Architecture 
• Luke Leung, sustainable engineering studio principal at Skidmore, Owings and Merrill 
• Patty Lloyd, director of sustainability at Leopardo Construction 
• Max Puchtel, director of sustainability and government relations at the American Institute of Steel Construction 

"Before attending the talk, my understanding of net-zero emissions was fairly limited, particularly within the context of the aviation and construction sectors," Ott said. "While emissions from vehicles have been prioritized, the role of existing buildings, including hangars and industrial facilities, in achieving net-zero emissions is something I had not fully considered. The talk highlighted the importance of including building operations in the broader net-zero conversation, which is the next step for the industry." 

Ott said the conversation helped him realize how he could advocate for more sustainable practices in the projects he manages.  

The most important lesson he took away from the event was the importance of collaboration among project stakeholders.  

"Sustainable practices in construction can only be successful when all parties are aligned and working together toward a common goal," he said. "It was also clear that while the construction team plays a crucial role, the client’s willingness to invest in sustainability is essential in making these initiatives successful."  

Ott also appreciated the networking component of the event. He enjoyed getting to meet and learn from other industry professionals and walked away with a number of ideas of how to apply topics heard at the event to his daily job.   

That opportunity to share perspectives and experiences is what makes BuiltX such a powerful event, Ott said. Although this was his first time attending, he quickly discovered why the series is so important.  

"EMDC's focus on these events is vital because they provide a platform for professionals to learn from one another, share best practices, and discuss the future of the industry," he said.  

"The networking opportunities are invaluable, allowing attendees to connect with others who are facing similar challenges. These events also help promote innovation and forward-thinking, which are critical for advancing the construction industry in a rapidly changing world."