In this episode, we talk with Roger Kodsi, P.Eng, a structural engineer at The Engineering Company Ltd, about his experience working for both small and large firms. Get ready for a fascinating conversation about the dynamics of fieldwork versus office work, the advantages and disadvantages of big firms versus small firms, and the importance of personal goals and growth in your structural engineering career. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Roger: As someone who has worked in both smaller and larger firms, could you share your experience regarding office work and fieldwork in the context of structural engineering? How does fieldwork in structural engineering enhance knowledge and communication skills compared to office-based work? What are the advantages and disadvantages of working for both big and small firms, and how has this impacted your structural engineering career growth and professional development? Do company dynamics and management styles vary based on size and type, and to what extent do personal experiences and individual company practices influence these factors? What advice would you give to someone transitioning from a big firm to a smaller firm, or vice versa, on how to successfully navigate and adapt to the new work environment? Do you believe structural engineers must have a defined goal or game plan in their career, and if so, how would you recommend they start and approach the planning process? What key moments in your academic and professional journey shifted your mindset from uncertainty to purpose, leading to significant growth and progress in your career? What advice would you give to younger structural engineers starting their careers in terms of maintaining accountability, staying focused on long-term goals, and effectively working toward them? What advice do you have for mid-career engineers aiming for career advancement and success? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Exploring Success and Growth in Your Structural Engineering Career Journey: Fieldwork and office work in structural engineering exhibit contrasting characteristics. In fieldwork, engineers engage in practical tasks, navigate a diverse environment, and gain hands-on experience, while office work emphasizes traditional design, analysis, and collaborative efforts. Fieldwork in structural engineering offers the opportunity to address real-world challenges and bridge the gap between office designs and on-site feasibility, which promotes collaboration, efficiency, and cost-effective solutions. Working in big firms can sometimes make employees feel like mere numbers, with a focus on production and less emphasis on personal relationships, while small firms prioritize accountability and efficiency, and encourage closer client interactions and personal growth opportunities. Working in different-sized companies can reveal varying levels of personal growth and recognition. In smaller companies, individual performance directly reflects one's value, with rewards aligned accordingly. However, in larger companies, decisions and opportunities for growth often depend on higher-level considerations, such as budget and project needs, which can sometimes make individuals feel unheard. The smaller team dynamics allowed for a more personable experience, while bigger companies tended to prioritize overall team performance rather than individual contributions. The main difference between larger and smaller firms is the level of support and problem-solving efficiency. In larger firms, navigating multiple channels and scheduling meetings can cause delays, requiring strong time management skills. In smaller firms,