In this episode, I talk with Kyle O'Hearn, P.E., CEO & Founder at DEKAT Engineering LLC, and Dinesh Panta, President & Founder at DEKAT Engineering LLC, about running a successful 24/7 Engineering Firm. Kyle and Dinesh provide invaluable insights on various aspects such as strategies, challenges, financial considerations, team management, client attraction, and having a global presence for structural engineering firms. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Kyle and Dinesh: What is the origin of the unique name "DEKAT" considering your extensive travels all over the world? How does your ability to operate and manage a 24/7 engineering firm provide advantages to your business, and could you explain how this system works? How does embracing communication technology and operating across different time zones make your company more agile compared to firms from a decade ago? What were the essential factors in managing a 24/7 engineering firm for long-term success? What strategies do you employ to overcome or mitigate the challenges that arise when running or starting your own business? How important is valuing the relationship with your clients and people on a personal level, and what impact does it have on the success of your business? What is your strategy and mindset for team management, particularly for structural engineers, to develop a cohesive and productive team with a strong focus on management and retention? What strategies do you employ to ensure the smooth operation and growth of your company? Can you share insights on financial aspects like budgeting, pricing, managing cash flow, and strategies that engineers, particularly structural engineers, may not know much about when starting? How do you attract and retain new engineers and employees in the field of structural engineering? How do you ensure the delivery of high-quality engineering services while maintaining profitability? What are the advantages of working in a smaller engineering firm with a focus on mentorship, one-on-one learning, and a culture of continuous learning, compared to larger firms with more specialized roles? Could you share some advice on how to effectively build and nurture relationships with clients, contractors, architects, and other professionals in the industry? What are some of your most valuable lessons or advice for aspiring structural engineers who want to run their own successful business in the future? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Run a Successful 24/7 Engineering Firm: DEKAT is a company founded with roots in Denver, Colorado, and Kathmandu, Nepal, aiming to establish a presence in both countries. The name "DEKAT" derives from combining the initials of these two locations, while their slogan, "Engineering From Mount Elbert to Mount Everest," captures their mission and passion for the mountains. DEKAT Engineering leverages subcontracted teams in Nepal and Bangladesh, operating around the clock, to provide the fastest turnaround time for projects and achieve a global presence for structural engineering, despite coordination challenges. This approach has contributed to their successful growth as a new startup. During the COVID shutdowns, remote work became the norm, leading to the realization that a global presence for structural engineering firms and collaboration with engineers from distant locations was possible. Tools like Microsoft Teams and Zoom enabled efficient work coordination and the establishment of personal relationships across the world. Achieving long-term success in managing an 24/7 engineering firm involves a clear strategy outlining the vision,