PMX Perspectives
Insights from a PMX-er
“When we successfully implement a new train control system, we’re not just finishing a project, we’re improving the daily lives of millions.”
Brendan Blitz
Project Manager
PMX Perspectives
From hospital power plants to subway modernization – discover how Brendan’s diverse engineering background drives infrastructure innovation at Group PMX.
Q: How has your career progression from hospital engineering operations to major transit projects shaped your leadership approach?
A: My healthcare background taught me that failure isn’t an option. When you’re managing power systems for a hospital, lives literally depend on your decisions. That mindset translates perfectly to transit work, where public safety and service reliability are paramount.
The transition from managing HVAC systems and generators to overseeing signal installations and train control rooms required expanding my technical knowledge, but the core leadership principles remained the same: thorough planning, clear communication, and unwavering commitment to quality.
Q: What specific qualities do you believe have contributed to your successful growth within Group PMX?
A: Adaptability and continuous learning have been key. When I joined Group PMX, I brought extensive MEP and hospital operations experience, but transit infrastructure presented new challenges. I embraced the learning curve, asked questions, and leveraged my foundational engineering knowledge while developing expertise in rail systems.
My willingness to take on diverse projects from emergency generator replacements to multi-million dollar station renovations demonstrated versatility that Group PMX values in its leaders.
Q: What’s your favorite aspect of your current role as Deputy Project Manager on the transit system modernization project?
A: I love the tangible impact our work has on millions of daily commuters. When we successfully implement a new train control system or complete signal upgrades, we’re not just finishing a project we’re improving the daily lives of countless people who depend on reliable public transportation.
There’s also tremendous satisfaction in coordinating complex technical work across multiple disciplines and seeing everything come together seamlessly. The scale and complexity keep me engaged and challenged every day.
Q: How do you ensure project teams maintain quality standards while meeting aggressive schedules?
A: It starts with setting clear expectations from day one and maintaining consistent oversight throughout the project lifecycle. I believe in being present in the field – you can’t manage from behind a desk. Regular coordination meetings, thorough review of submittals and RFIs, and maintaining open lines of communication with all stakeholders are essential.
I also learned early in my career that cutting corners to meet deadlines ultimately costs more time and money than doing things right the first time.
Q: What’s the most rewarding project you’ve worked on, and what made it special?
A: The major station improvement project stands out because of its complexity and public impact. Managing daily construction activities while coordinating with multiple stakeholders – including rail agencies, contractors, and building owners – required every leadership skill I’d developed.
Seeing the dramatic transformation from concept to completion, knowing that millions of passengers would benefit from improved access and safety features, made all the long hours and complex coordination worthwhile. It exemplified what’s possible when talented teams work together toward a common goal.
