At ModnPods, we believe the future of construction is shaped by collaboration, shared knowledge, and real-world experience. That belief guided our recent partnership with Bond University, where we actively supported Master of Architecture students as they completed one of the most important milestones in their studies.
Our involvement went far beyond observation. It was about opening doors, sharing insights, and helping bridge the gap between academic learning and industry practice — particularly within the evolving world of modular manufacturing.
From the Factory Floor to the Panel Room
Earlier in the semester, we invited around 30 Master of Architecture students to our ModnPods HQ and manufacturing facility. They gained a behind-the-scenes look at how we design, manufacture, and deliver modular buildings from start to finish.
Our team walked students through every stage of our modular process — from early design thinking and standardisation to lean manufacturing, quality control, and on-site installation methodology. We shared real project examples, lessons learned, and the decision-making strategies that lead to successful modular outcomes.
More than anything, curiosity defined the day. The questions, conversations, and energy reinforced why these interactions matter: they spark understanding, challenge assumptions, and inspire new ways of thinking about design and delivery.
The session was led by our Founder and Director John Christie, Lead Designer Alba Berger, and GM Developments Guy Martin, each offering a different lens on what it takes to deliver high-quality modular outcomes at scale.
Closing the Loop: Industry in the Classroom
That factory visit set the foundation for the next step — participating in the final student presentations as part of Bond University’s industry panel.
Our Lead Designer Alba Berger joined David Manase – Academic & Construction Industry Practitioner and Steve MacRae from Steve MacRae Development Services to review student proposals exploring modular accommodation within an active university campus environment.
The presentations demonstrated thoughtful consideration of design quality, delivery methodology, and the role of off-site pod manufacture supported by on-site installation. It was encouraging to see how students translated both academic theory and real-world exposure into considered, practical responses.
Being part of this process reinforced the value of industry engagement — not just in assessing outcomes, but in helping shape how future designers think about buildability, efficiency, and long-term impact.
A Partnership Built on Shared Values
This connection with Bond University has been building over time. Four months ago, conversations began around how we could work more closely together — exploring ways to deepen collaboration between education and industry.
That relationship is personal as well as professional. Our Founder, John Christie, is a Bond University alumnus, and our Managing Director Stuart Giles holds the role of Bond Transformer Founder in Residence. These shared roots create a strong foundation for ongoing partnership, mentorship, and innovation.
Looking Ahead
We see supporting emerging designers and thinkers as part of how we invest in the future of modular construction. By hosting students, sharing our process, and contributing to their learning journey, we’re not just shaping the next generation — we’re shaping how they think about build-ability, efficiency, and long-term impact.
