Building a Career in ZGF’s Model Shop Community

Building a Career in ZGF’s Model Shop Community

January 17, 2023

In this latest series of Humans of ZGF interviews, we sat down with the model shop team to learn about their unique career paths into model building, the most memorable projects they’ve worked on, and what’s on their bench right now.

Ben Wang’s dream was to find a dedicated model builder position after graduation. When he learned about ZGF’s fabrication services, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to apply his experience managing Syracuse University’s fabrication lab, where he helped students with 3D printing, laser cutting, and using woodshop equipment, to overseeing the model shops in our east coast offices. Learn more about Ben below.

Why do you love working in architecture and design? I love working together with a team throughout the design process. Combining the different ideas that everyone brings into one solid piece of work is a rewarding experience.

How did you make your way into the model shop at ZGF? In school, a lot of my projects involved building some type of model. When I was looking for internships and jobs, I would always ask if the firm had an in-house model shop. It wasn’t until ZGF that I found a dedicated model builder position. Now I’m responsible for overseeing our model shops in Washington, D.C. and New York, helping streamline operations and document projects.

What are some of the differences between your school projects and professional models? They are similar in what they are trying to achieve or illustrate, but now my creative input is focused on how to best construct the model and how I can think of new and different ways of presenting the model rather than designing the building myself. Professional models are also more detailed and thoroughly planned out, which translates to more steps in the building process but also greater appreciation for the craft.   

Ben designed and constructed this arched table from a single sheet of wood using only wood glue with no other joint connectors.

In his senior thesis, “Water Landscapes: Flood Management Knowledge from the Mekong to the Mississippi,” Ben created a master plan to address rising sea levels using flood adaptation methods that could be applied to the city of New Orleans.

How did ZGF support your transition from school to professional practice? One of the most helpful things ZGF did when I started was fly me out to Portland to see how their model shop group operates. It was great to see how they work and to learn from such an experienced group. The following week, Miranda Shum traveled to D.C. to help me organize the shop here, which helped me understand how to manage things myself going forward.

What is the most memorable project you’ve worked on? The North Carolina State University Integrative Sciences Building project stands out most. There was a lot to learn from the team in Portland about the fabrication process and how to work with designers to fulfill a creative vision. It was definitely a big step up from school.

What’s on your bench right now? Since the D.C. model shop is just ramping up after being a little inactive the past few years, I’m organizing the machines and materials to make it easier for me and other designers to come in and use the space. I’m excited to see where we can take the shop.

In association with Mossley Architects, NC State’s Integrative Sciences Building aims to transform the world for the better with interdisciplinary teams of scientists collaborating to create the next generation of molecular-focused solutions.

Where can we find you outside of work? Hiking, taking photos, or in the gym. However, you can always find me eating good food.

Dog or cat? Dog.

Favorite quote? "What other people think of me is none of my business." – Eleanor Roosevelt

Favorite TV/movie character? Arya Stark from Game of Thrones.

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