Ever spent weeks figuring out if an AI tool is actually worth your time? Welcome to the AEC industry, where researching companies, checking funding, sitting through demos, and dodging overpromises can feel like a full-time job. AI has huge potential, but without a game plan, it can quickly become chaos in a spreadsheet.
In this episode with Stjepan Mikulić, we explore how AI is reshaping the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry through both education and technology management. Our guest breaks down the challenges firms face when evaluating AI tools, how to avoid biased recommendations, and how to choose the right technology to save time, reduce costs, and improve workflow efficiency. We also discuss strategies for implementing AI across teams, addressing common misconceptions about data privacy, and creating a structured approach that aligns tools with a firm’s long-term goals.
Beyond AI, we explore entrepreneurship, success, and values, from family influences to the choice between city life and simple living, showing that true success comes from following your own mission, not chasing numbers.
Key Takeaways:
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Finding the right AI tools can be confusing, but Neostack makes it simple and unbiased.
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AI works best when it’s part of a structured plan, not just a shiny gadget. Firms need a strategy to align AI with real goals.
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Following a step-by-step process helps firms implement AI efficiently, saving time, money, and resources.
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AI allows professionals to focus on creative, high-value, and meaningful work instead of getting bogged down by routine tasks.
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Most fears about AI stealing data are overblown; with proper security, information remains safe.
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True success is personal. It comes from living and working in alignment with your own mission, not just chasing money or trends.
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Every professional has a unique version of success, and AI can help them focus on what truly matters while avoiding burnout.
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The goal is for every AEC professional to use AI well and focus on the work that matters most.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Episode Snippet 01:20 – Introducing our guest, Stjepan Mikulić 05:39 – Why doing business in the US is different 09:08 – Building a global team across 4 continents 15:43 – Making courses fair with Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) 19:07 – Who do you serve and want to serve more?
24:44 – What is NeoStack and the problems it solves
29:04 – NIO (built-in AI) spots blind spots and recommends apps
29:59 – Sponsor Spotlight: Struggling to meet deadlines with limited staff? MGS Global Group is here for you. We provide qualified architectural professionals on demand so you can scale your projects without compromising quality. Visit https://mgsglobalgroup.com today.
31:30 – Firms can scale faster with support partners
36:40 – The Nine-step process of AI implementation 39:00 – AI must align with firm strategy, not just tools
46:57 – The biggest misconception about AI
51:31 – Stjepan’s upcoming courses and speaking engagements
53:52 – Connect with Stjepan
58:14 – Curious about AI in architecture? Subscribe to the podcast and join our newsletter at AIforArchitects.AI/subscribe for exclusive content and AI tool reviews.
About the Guest:
Stjepan Mikulić is the CEO of AI in AEC and founder of the AEC AI Hub, the world’s largest database of AI tools for the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Recognized as one of Architizer’s leading experts in AI, he has trained hundreds of professionals, helped firms save millions, and built a global community of over 27,000 LinkedIn followers. With his mission to make AI education accessible and practical, Stjepan is a trusted voice helping AEC professionals harness the power of AI.
Connect with Stjepan Mikulić:
Email: stjepan@aiinaec.com
Website: https://www.aiinaec.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stjepanmikulic/
Testimonials: https://testimonial.to/mastering-ai-in-aec-course/all
About the Host:
Aya Shlachter is the CEO and Founder of MGS Global Group and the creator of the Architect My Life Community and Podcast. With degrees from Columbia University and NJIT, plus advanced studies at Harvard, she helps architects and designers grow their businesses while living more fulfilling lives. Outside of work, Aya is a wife, mom of two, world traveler, and recreational triathlete.
Connect with Aya Shlachter:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aya.shlachter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aya_shlachter/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayashlachter/
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🎙️ This episode is brought to you by MGS Global Group
Running a growing architecture firm? You’re probably not short on projects. You’re short on people. That’s where MGS Global Group comes in.
We provide qualified architects on demand so you can deliver more without overloading your team or sacrificing quality. Whether you need help with Construction Documents, Design Development, BIM support, or just don’t have time to train someone new, our team integrates seamlessly with yours — no long hiring process, no hand-holding.
We work across time zones, so your projects keep moving even after you log off.
Learn more at mgsglobalgroup.com (https://mgsglobalgroup.com/)
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