Carl Plandez: The Blueprint for Building Success

From nurturing his creative skills to exploring growth opportunities, Carl from ASW Philippines continues to build his career with purpose and passion. As an architect and an ASW Client Spotlight awardee, he shares how resilience, learning, and a positive mindset have guided him in his approach to work and life.

1. Hi Carl! Can you walk us through your career path? What sparked your interest in architecture and what led you to work for ASW?

Since I was a child, I have always been interested in drawing and building things. I wanted to develop my creativity and practical skills into a career, and I was continually fascinated by the structures being built around me. This passion inspired me to pursue a degree in architecture.

I later joined an offshoring team supporting an Australian company, where I became interested in Australian design practices, compliance requirements, and the overall design process.

As my interest in the Australian construction industry grew, I wanted to expand my knowledge and contribute more directly to the design process. When I learned of the Design Coordinator opportunity at ASW, I saw it as an excellent opportunity to further develop my skills and advance my career, and I was fortunate to be offered the position.

2. What does a typical day look like for you as a Design Coordinator Team Leader for our client? As a team leader, what’s your approach to managing and mentoring your team?

I respond to client enquiries and address project-related matters, followed by meetings with clients to discuss design requirements and project progress. I also develop and review reports and design documentation for submission.

As a Team Leader, I regularly hold team meetings to monitor progress, set clear goals, and coach team members on new processes, technical developments, and project requirements. I encourage my team to communicate directly with clients so they can build their confidence and professional skills, while providing guidance and support.

3. Congratulations on being a Client Spotlight Awardee! Can you share a specific project or moment where your leadership made a real difference for the client?

I think the ongoing development of school facilities across NSW has allowed my team to contribute to a wide range of infrastructure projects. We helped standardise the assessment process by developing guidance on common design scenarios, documenting potential solutions, and preparing presentations for School Infrastructure NSW. These documents have helped the team deliver projects more efficiently while maintaining the required design standards.

4. You’ve worked with Australian clients in your previous roles and now with ASW. How has that experience shaped you professionally?

I’ve learned to appreciate the value that each trade brings to a project and the need to carefully consider all perspectives, even when there are different opinions or conflicting requirements. There’s rarely a single solution to a design challenge, so evaluating multiple options is essential to delivering practical, compliant, and effective outcomes.

I’ve also learned the importance of being professional throughout the design and coordination process, so that discussions remain constructive and focused on achieving the best result.

5. What are your top 3 moments at ASW, and how do they capture what ASW’s culture is really like?

They would be the Bohol team trip, the client’s training visit in the Philippines, and the annual Christmas parties.

The Bohol trip really strengthened relationships with my colleagues outside of the workplace. The training visit showed that the company is committed to investing in us through knowledge sharing and professional development. I also appreciate the Christmas parties because they show how ASW values recognising employees’ contributions and promoting a healthy work–life balance.

6. Who has been your biggest influence in your professional and personal life? What did you learn from them?

My father has always led by example, teaching me the importance of hard work, integrity, resilience, and staying positive through challenges.

One of the most valuable lessons he taught me is that a positive attitude does not remove difficulties but helps you face them with determination and perspective. He encouraged me to find solutions, learn from setbacks, and keep moving forward.

This has helped me stay composed under pressure, adapt to change, and see challenges as opportunities to grow. His guidance continues to influence how I work with others, make decisions, and strive to improve.

7. What Filipino work ethic or value has helped you succeed in your role?

Maintaining a positive outlook in the face of challenges. I’ve learned that difficulties are part of both life and work, but how we respond to them can make a difference in how we overcome them.

Approaching challenges with optimism, resilience, and a solution-focused mindset helps me stay focused and productive, even under pressure. Instead of seeing setbacks as obstacles, I try to see them as ways to learn, improve, and grow.

This value has guided me throughout my career, helping me stay composed during demanding situations, work well with others, and contribute positively to my team.

8. How do you practise work-life balance? What are your interests and hobbies outside of work?

I make a conscious effort to complete my work within my scheduled hours. Setting these boundaries allows me to stay productive during the day while making time for the people who matter most.

I value spending quality time with my family and enjoy participating in physical activities together, whether it’s going for walks, biking, playing sports, or simply being active outdoors.

9. What’s something you’re really proud of in your personal life?

Being able to provide a comfortable and stable life for my family is something I am truly grateful for and will always be proud of. My family is my biggest motivation, and they inspire me to be the best version of myself.

For me, success is not defined solely by professional achievements or career progression. It is measured by the ability to support my loved ones and give them a sense of security and happiness.

10. What advice would you give to someone who wants to grow their career at ASW?

Maintain a positive attitude, be patient, and stay resilient. Career growth takes time, and every challenge or new responsibility is a chance to learn and develop.

Be open to feedback, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. There will be times when progress feels slow, but staying persistent and willing to improve will help build your skills and confidence.

Most importantly, enjoy the process and value the relationships you build along the way.