Episodes
In this episode, we talk to Margie Oleson, Ed.D., change consultant at Oleson Consulting LLC and OCM Lead at Lockheed Martin, about unique challenges faced by CEOs and C-suite executives. She also shares some great advice for navigating turbulent times in companies, building effective engineering leadership teams, fostering cohesion, and ensuring long-term improvements. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points...
Published 04/23/24
In this episode, we talk to Josh Valman, CEO of RPDK, Innovation Board Advisor to the Royal Academy of Engineering, and Investment Committee Board Member at the British Design Fund, about the gap between education and real-world engineering. He emphasizes the importance of practical experience, interpersonal growth, and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the rapidly changing engineering industry. ***The video version of  this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering...
Published 04/09/24
In this episode, we talk to Robert J. Khoury about the key principles and strategies for creating an exceptional internship experience. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and intentionality in designing internships that meet the needs of both the employer and the intern. Robert also highlights the significance of dignity in internships and the impact it has on the overall experience, and provides practical advice on preparing for internships, conducting effective interviews, and setting...
Published 03/26/24
In this episode, we talk with Peter Schroeder about his journey as a tech entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned in starting and growing a business, the importance of leadership and management, and the traits that set a successful tech entrepreneur apart. Peter also provides advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and emphasizes the need for a sales-focused team member. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of...
Published 03/12/24
In this episode, we talk with Vinod Narayan, senior software engineer and project manager at Viviota, about effective strategies for excelling in both hardware and software fields. Vinod also provides some great advice on leading diverse teams in complex engineering projects. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Effective Strategies for Thriving in Hardware and Software Industries: ...
Published 02/27/24
In this episode, we talk with Alan Stein, Jr., a former basketball performance coach turned corporate keynote speaker, and author of "Raise Your Game", about the application of high-performance leadership principles across diverse aspects of life. He emphasizes the importance of fundamentals and never getting bored with them. He also shares a story about meeting Kobe Bryant and how Bryant's dedication to mastering the basics influenced his approach to personal and professional...
Published 02/13/24
In this episode, we talk with Farnoosh Brock about the importance of leadership and engineering communication skills. She emphasizes the need for engineers to close the gap between technical and leadership skills to advance in their careers. Farnoosh highlights the significance of confidence and voice in effective communication and leadership. She also discusses the role of mindset in professional development and provides strategies for building confidence and improving communication skills....
Published 01/30/24
In this episode, we talk with Lisa Nourse, Talent Acquisition Manager; Hannah Newhard, P.E., PTOE, Traffic Engineer; Nicholas Teach, Transportation Engineer; and Curt Grass, Senior Engineer, about the impact and role of the Young Professionals Group (YPG) at Stanley Consultants, exploring its influence on the development and success of young professionals in the engineering field. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How a Young...
Published 01/16/24
In this episode, we talk with Prof. Saleem H. Ali, Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Geography and Spatial Sciences and the Blue & Gold Distinguished Professor of Energy and the Environment at the University of Delaware (USA), about the critical role of aluminum in sustainability, its ecological impacts, and effective strategies for engineers seeking the delicate balance between project profitability and sustainability within their organizations. ***The video version of this episode...
Published 01/02/24
In this episode, we talk with Dr. Andrew Temte, CFA, former CEO of Kaplan Professional, author of “Balancing Act: Teach, Coach, Mentor, Inspire,” and host of The Balancing Act Podcast, about enhancing leadership and organizational development in today's dynamic business landscape. He will reveal key strategies from his book, such as strategies for building trust and accountability within teams, the importance of continuous improvement and customer focus, and the integration of emotional...
Published 12/12/23
In this episode, we talk with Jen Hubbard, recruiter, and talent acquisition at Wallace Design Collective, about recruiting strategies for modern engineering firms and adaptability in considering changes in the job market. Jen also provides tips on candidate sourcing, relationship-building, and successful salary negotiations. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Top Recruiting Strategies for...
Published 11/28/23
In this episode, Matthew Douglas, the operation leader at EMI, talks with me about my new book, "The Intentional Engineer." We discuss intentionality in engineering careers, work-life balance and explain how you can conquer challenges with confidence. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Become an Intentional Engineer: A Guide to a Purposeful Career: The book highlights the importance of intentionality in one's career. It caters to...
Published 11/14/23
In this episode, we talk with Dave Carey, an acclaimed motivational speaker, consultant, coach, and author, about his experience as a prisoner of war (POW) for over five years and the invaluable lessons he gained from it that can be applied to life, leadership, and engineering. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Prisoner of War Lessons for Life, Leadership, and Engineering: Dave, a...
Published 10/31/23
In this episode, we talk with Timothy Wingate Jr., EA, the founder and president of G+F Business & Financial Consulting, about the challenges and strategies related to communication, finance, and technology in a construction project management system. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Get the Most Out of Your Construction Project Management System: For construction...
Published 10/17/23
In this episode, I talk with Pam Hurley, PhD, the founder and president of Hurley Write, Inc., about how engineers can become more effective writers. We discuss some of the challenges that engineers face when writing, share some tips and strategies for improving their effective technical writing skills, and the importance of writing in a clear, concise, and engaging style. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key...
Published 10/03/23
In this episode, we talk with Ahmed Wasfy. With a career that's seen him leading engineering teams in tech giants like Microsoft, Google, and AWS, Ahmed brings a wealth of experience and insights that are truly remarkable. From deciphering the core attributes that set exceptional engineering leaders apart to navigating challenges faced by new leaders entering the workforce, we dive deep into the art and science of leadership. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed...
Published 09/19/23
In this episode, we talk with Sam LaMontanaro P.E., C.E.M., Director of Engineering at Aufgang Architects, LLC, about internship programs that are tailored for young engineers. We delve into the exciting opportunities these programs offer and how they equip aspiring engineers to conquer real-world challenges in the industry. Additionally, for those contemplating fieldwork, we explore the significant benefits young engineers can derive from hands-on experience and how it fosters their...
Published 09/05/23
In this episode, we talk to Kirils Holstovs MEng (Hons) GMICE, an engineer at AECOM working in transportation, and a co-lead of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO) Young Engineers / Future Leaders’ Working Group on Climate Action, about sustainable development and innovation in engineering, and how engineers can bridge the science-policy divide in climate action. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of...
Published 08/22/23
In this episode, we talk with Erin Thorp, a highly accomplished civil engineer, keynote speaker, writer, and coach, about how to approach tough conversations with emotional intelligence in both your personal and professional life. The video version of this episode can be viewed here. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in the Construction Industry: Women in construction are often told that they are too...
Published 08/08/23
In this episode, we talk to Dr. Robert M. Santer, Principal of The Santer Group, about the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from a new engineering graduate to an engineering professional. We delve into the common hurdles faced by engineering graduates when entering the professional world, the significance of adopting an anthropological perspective in understanding organizational culture, and the vital aspects engineers should focus on to navigate and thrive within formal...
Published 07/25/23
In this episode, we talk with Niklas W. Vigener, P.E., LEED AP BD+C, senior principal, and chief technical officer at Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc (SGH) about how they have pushed the boundaries of innovation in engineering, emphasizing the importance of embracing a "what's possible?" mentality. He also talks about the significance of fostering partnerships with engineering staff, external companies, and research organizations and how it can elevate your engineering career. ***You can...
Published 07/11/23
Don In this episode, we talk with Donnell Duncan, P.E., S.E., an accomplished author, captivating speaker, and associate vice president at Arcadis, about some of the challenges and opportunities that engineers encounter in our rapidly evolving marketplace, and how you can adapt to these changes by thinking strategically. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Think Strategically and Be...
Published 06/27/23
  In this episode, I speak with Doug Berschauer, P.E., the Project Delivery Officer and Water Technology Lead for Parametrix, about the art of public speaking. Discover Doug's journey to becoming an accomplished speaker and gain valuable advice for engineers aspiring to improve their public speaking skills. ***The video version of this episodes can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About a Guide for Engineers on How to Improve Your...
Published 06/13/23
In this episode, we talk to Tony Chatman, speaker, author, and corporate relationship expert who has been helping organizations achieve their goals through listening and leadership about how engineers can define and tackle problems in a corporate setting, and the crucial role of listening in effective corporate problem-solving. He also talks about his book, “The Force Multiplier,” and how engineering leaders can use it to transform their teams into high-performing units. ***You can view...
Published 05/23/23