Jamie Berard, born on October 14, 1975, is 49 years old and one of the celebrity judges on LEGO Masters USA. The popular competition program sees creative builders competing in crazy LEGO tasks under strict time constraints.
Jamie sits at the judges' table with fellow LEGO specialist Amy Corbett. They evaluate each build based on inventiveness, technical ability, and how well the tale is conveyed, all while keeping an eye on those little plastic bricks.
Jamie has been with The LEGO Group for over 19 years and presently serves as Senior Design Manager and Creative Lead. Prior to becoming a professional, he was an Adult Fan of LEGO (AFOL), attending community events and creating for enjoyment. He's progressed from enthusiast to full-fledged LEGO legend. Jamie's acute eye, helpful input, and passion for all things brick-built have made him well-known beyond the LEGO community since the show's debut in 2020.
Berard's experience creating complicated settings such as Big Ben and Assembly Square lends credibility to judging participant projects. His age and expertise provide significant insights into both traditional construction techniques and current breakthroughs in LEGO design.
LEGO Masters' Jamie Berard’s journey from LEGO fan to the world of LEGO
Jamie Berard discovered his love for LEGO during childhood in the United States. His parents recognized his exceptional response to the building system early on. They supported his interest by purchasing larger sets.
The LEGO Airport became a defining gift during his youth. Berard treasured the airport but also deconstructed it to create new designs. He requested another airport the following Christmas, realizing he wanted both display and play versions.
His family encouraged his building hobby throughout his teenage years. Relatives passed down their LEGO collections as they outgrew the toys. This support system helped Berard avoid the common "dark age" when teens abandon childhood interests.
Berard became known as "the LEGO guy" among friends and family. He never felt pressure to hide his passion as he grew older. Every birthday and holiday included LEGO-related gifts or experiences.
Berard's transition from fan to professional began through community involvement. He joined the New England LEGO Users Group (NELUG) after meeting members at a retail store. This connection introduced him to the broader Adult Fan of LEGO community.
His skills developed through collaborative projects with NELUG members. The group tackled ambitious builds, including a 100,000-piece Boston skyline mosaic. Berard served as foreman on the Millyard Project, which became the world's largest permanent minifigure-scale display.
Berard competed in 2004 to become the next Master Model Builder at LEGOLAND California. He made the finals among other prominent builders such as Nathan Sawaya. This tournament helped raise his fame in the LEGO community.
The critical event occurred during Brickfest 2005 in Washington, D.C. Berard demonstrated working amusement park attractions, which drew the attention of a LEGO Group management. His operational carousel and ferris wheel showcased both technical ability and creative vision.
LEGO hired Berard in 2005 to join their Creator design team. His initial focus involved developing sets for adult builders, an emerging market segment. The company recognized the potential in targeting grown-up fans with sophisticated models.
Berard's designs include iconic sets like the 4,000+ piece Big Ben and Assembly Square Modular Building. These complex models showcase his ability to balance detail with buildability. His work spans multiple product lines, including LEGO Architecture and LEGO Ideas.
His role evolved to senior design manager and creative lead over his 19-year tenure. Berard now supervises development of adult-oriented sets like the massive Eiffel Tower model. He guides the team responsible for creating dozens of complex builds annually.
The adult LEGO market has expanded dramatically under his influence. What began as a handful of sets per year now encompasses dozens of large boxes covering diverse subjects. LEGO Masters' Berard's vision helped establish this profitable segment.
Jamie Berard on LEGO Masters
Since 2020, Berard has served as a judge on LEGO Masters USA alongside Amy Corbett. LEGO Masters transformed him from a community celebrity to a mainstream television personality. His expertise provides credibility when evaluating contestant creations.
Berard's judging style reflects his design philosophy and technical knowledge. He appreciates both innovative building techniques and compelling storytelling. His feedback helps contestants improve while entertaining viewers.
The television role complements his day job leading adult product development. Berard continues designing sets while appearing on the popular competition show. This dual role keeps him connected to both professional and fan communities.
At 49 years old, Jamie Berard represents the successful fusion of childhood passion and professional achievement. His journey from enthusiastic fan to LEGO Group executive to LEGO Masters inspires builders worldwide. His age brings valuable perspective to both design work and television judging duties, making him an authoritative voice in the LEGO community.
LEGO Masters USA airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Fox, and new episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.