Episodes
In this episode, I talk with Kow Eshun, PE, PMP, vice president at Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc., about how being a successful leader involves balancing the technical demands of geotechnical engineering with leadership and project management responsibilities to achieve successful project outcomes. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Kow: What qualities make a successful leader in...
Published 11/21/24
In this episode, I talk with Izabelle McGarvey, EIT, a design engineer at Menard USA, on how innovative sustainability is reshaping geotechnical engineering to meet the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity in foundational projects like tunnels and infrastructure. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Izabelle: How did Menard’s focus on sustainability begin, and how has the program...
Published 11/07/24
In this episode, I dive into how embedded temperature sensors in concrete are revolutionizing the way engineers address climate challenges, enabling early issue detection and fortifying infrastructure to withstand extreme weather. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Tackle Climate Challenges With Embedded Temperature Sensors: Temperature fluctuations cause construction materials...
Published 10/31/24
In this episode, I talk with Michael Reader, CEO, and principal geotechnical engineer at Group Delta Consultants, about overcoming engineering challenges in billion-dollar projects, from unexpected surprises to managing budgets and navigating regulations on California’s most complex infrastructure developments. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Michael: How does your independent approach set you apart from larger firms that have grown through...
Published 10/21/24
In this episode, we talk with Eddie Chiarelli, vice president at New York Concrete Corp. & Strata Industries Corp, about tackling mega engineering projects like the Gateway Tunnel. Discover how innovative strategies, strong teamwork, and a focus on how sustainability can help overcome the challenges of large-scale construction. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Eddie: As a key member of the NYCC team working on Phase 3 of the Gateway Tunnel project,...
Published 09/26/24
In this episode, we talk with Eddie Chiarelli, vice president at New York Concrete Corp. & Strata Industries Corp, about tackling mega-projects like the Gateway Tunnel. Discover how innovative strategies, strong teamwork, and a focus on how sustainability can help overcome the challenges of mega-engineering projects. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Eddie: As a key member of the NYCC team working on Phase 3 of the Gateway Tunnel project, which has...
Published 09/26/24
In this episode, we talk with Ron Chapple, Vice President of Global Strategic Solutions - Digital Twins at NV5 Geospatial, about how digital twin technology is transforming industries. This cutting-edge technology creates real-time virtual replicas to optimize complex systems and has sparked growing interest due to recent advancements. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Ron: Can you explain what...
Published 09/12/24
In this episode, we talk with Kristin M. Sample-Lord, Ph.D., P.E., associate professor and assistant department chair at Villanova University, about the importance of professional services. She explains how getting involved in these activities can create new opportunities, enhance your skills, and boost your professional reputation. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Kristin: What professional...
Published 08/29/24
In this episode, I speak with Frank DiSalvo, P.E., the dynamic regional manager of American Pile and Foundation, LLC, about the ongoing talent shortage in the geotechnical engineering industry and explore his innovative solutions to address this pressing challenge. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Frank: When you first started in the industry, did you encounter any significant challenges or...
Published 08/15/24
In this episode, we talk with Kirsten Wilde Grant, P.E., a project engineer in Schnabel Engineering's Geostructural group, about the challenges and intricacies of bottom-up retaining wall construction, and emerging trends and technologies shaping the future of geotechnical engineering. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Kristin: Can you explain bottom-up retaining wall construction and discuss some common challenges engineers encounter with this method? ...
Published 08/13/24
In this episode, I discuss the best Master's programs in geotechnical engineering worldwide. From earthquake-resistant designs in Japan to sustainable projects in the Netherlands, I highlight the top Master's program options for advancing your career. Whether you're a student or a pro, join me for an exciting look at global opportunities in geotechnical engineering. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Choosing the...
Published 07/18/24
In this episode, we talk with Gohe A. Metaferia  M.A.Sc., P.Eng., a director of Geotechnical Practice at AtkinsRéalis. He shares insights on how to build and lead successful geotechnical teams, promote innovation and collaboration on complex projects, and integrate international standards into engineering practices. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Gohe: What key qualities do you consider...
Published 07/04/24
In this episode, we talk with John Thornley, Ph.D., P.E., D.GE, vice president and senior geotechnical engineer at WSP in Anchorage, Alaska, about working in cold regions, studying permafrost and seismic activities, and the value of international collaboration in geotechnical engineering. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask John: Can you describe the unique challenges engineers face when working...
Published 06/20/24
In this episode, we talk with Jeffrey Rissman, senior director of the Industry Program at Energy Innovation Policy and Technology LLC, about using advanced tech to cut industry emissions, balancing climate action with industry changes, and the journey to a carbon-free industry. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Jeffrey: Could you briefly discuss some of the advanced technologies for reducing...
Published 06/06/24
In this episode, I talk about the evolving opportunities in remote geotechnical work, highlighting how job roles are increasingly offering the flexibility to work from home or in the field. I also discuss the tools and technologies that are facilitating this transition. ***The video version of the episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Utilize Technology for Remote Geotechnical Work: Engineers can now work...
Published 05/23/24
In this episode, I talk with T. Matthew Evans, Ph.D., a professor at Oregon State University, about the influence of geotechnical engineering on everyday life and its future advancements with technology. Dr. Evans shares insights from his research on soil stability across various conditions and underscores the practical application of physics in geotechnical engineering. He also highlights changes in civil engineering education, like remote learning and artificial intelligence (AI). ***The...
Published 05/09/24
In this episode, I reflect on our top 10 geotechnical engineering podcasts that resonate the most with our listeners. We explore groundbreaking discussions on new technologies and share inspiring stories of career development and engineering leadership. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.** Here Are the Top 10 Geotechnical Engineering Podcasts: #10 - Episode 04: Joanna Smith, a talented young geotechnical engineer at AECOM, is making significant contributions...
Published 04/25/24
In this episode, I talk about how inclusive urban design makes cities more accessible. It's about solving problems like sidewalk design and trees with universal principles. We need to engage communities and navigate laws to push for better standards. Ultimately, it's about doing what's right and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About the Best...
Published 04/11/24
In this episode, we talk with Ashly Cabas, Ph.D., M.ASCE, assistant professor at North Carolina State University, about the impact of local soil conditions on ground shaking during earthquakes, and the importance of understanding this for safer infrastructure design in earthquake engineering. Dr. Cabas also highlights the tools and technologies used in seismic hazard assessment and the role of geotechnical extreme event reconnaissance in advancing research and practice. ***The video...
Published 03/28/24
In this episode, we dive deep into a vital aspect of geotechnical engineering — how to build effective teams in Geotechnical Projects. We explore the intricate world of collaboration, uncover strategies for building and managing effective teams, and discuss how the synergy of multidisciplinary teams is essential for the success of complex geotechnical projects. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed...
Published 03/14/24
In this episode, we talk with Leonard Sands, Global Business Line Director for Land at Fugro, about his extensive career journey, the evolution, and innovations in land site characterization and geological data gathering. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Leonard: What notable advancements have you observed in the field of land characterization and geological data gathering? Reflecting on...
Published 02/29/24