In this episode, I talk to Jason McDaid, BSc (Hons) PMSFPE MIEI MIFSM, Senior Fire Engineer at Ryan & Associates and Impostor Syndrome coach, about impostor syndrome and hidden cognitive strain and how it shapes performance, confidence, and culture in technical teams. We explore engineering leadership, impostor syndrome in technical fields, and how to overcome fear-driven patterns to achieve balance and growth.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Impostor Syndrome in Engineering Leadership and Workplace Culture:
- Impostor syndrome is the belief that success is undeserved and will eventually be exposed. In engineering and leadership, it shows up as constant self-doubt even when accomplishments are clear.
- Fear influences every action and leads to coping patterns like procrastination, over-preparing, or staying quiet. People may still perform, but the hidden strain steadily drains energy and results in burnout.
- Behaviors such as silence, avoidance, or relentless overwork often mask internal struggles rather than disengagement. Leaders who recognize these patterns can respond with support and understanding instead of judgment.
- Raising concerns with staff works best when leaders show care and patience. Creating a culture where mental health and impostor syndrome can be discussed openly allows people to share when the time feels right.
- Impostor syndrome is common in engineering and technical fields because of constant critique, comparison, and pressure to achieve. Competitive environments and frequent reviews reinforce the feeling of not measuring up.
- Engineers and project leaders can begin change by identifying their own coping patterns and the fears behind them. Recognizing the cost of these habits and setting healthier boundaries opens the door to sustainable growth.
- Leaders create safer environments when they model authenticity, admit challenges, and show that asking questions is welcome. This builds trust and signals that being human at work is accepted.
- Moving past fear and finding peace at work is possible with awareness and intentional changes. Boundaries, reframing thought patterns, and healthier coping strategies bring balance and renewed engagement.
- The 78% Club helps professionals understand they are not alone, since most experience impostor feelings. Through workshops and bootcamps, participants connect with peers, share openly, and gain practical tools for confidence and resilience.
- Silence should never be assumed as strength. Leaders make the greatest difference when they listen deeply, notice subtle signs, and provide space without rushing to fix problems.
More in This Episode…
About Jason McDaid, BSc (Hons) PMSFPE MIEI MIFSM
Jason McDaid, BSc (Hons) PMSFPE MIEI MIFSM, is a senior fire engineer with over a decade of technical experience delivering safety-focused solutions across a wide range of complex, high-profile projects. His work spans multiple sectors, where precision, accountability, and leadership are paramount. Known for his ability to navigate high-pressure environments, Jason has developed a keen understanding of the internal challenges professionals face behind the scenes—particularly those related to self-doubt and professional identity.
In response to what he saw as a growing but unspoken issue in the engineering field, Jason became a certified Impostor Syndrome coach. Today, he helps engineers and leaders recognize the signs of impostor syndrome, separate it from healthy self-reflection, and build the confidence to lead authentically. By combining lived experience with evidence-based coaching, Jason is on a mission to reduce stigma, improve performance, and reshape workplace culture—one honest conversation at a time.
About the Host: Rebecca Swabey, P.Eng.
Rebecca is a professional engineer who transitioned into the role of a tech startup founder. With ten years of experience in the civil consulting industry, specializing in water resources engineering and land development, she co-founded Equator Studios in 2018. The company enhances efficiency and quality for civil firms in the early stages of projects by providing better access to LiDAR and proposal automation tools. Based in Ontario, Canada, Rebecca enjoys hiking along the Grand River, experimenting with pizza recipes, and spending time with her two dogs.
Resources and Links Mentioned in This Session Include:
78% Club
Dr. Valerie Young – Impostor Syndrome
Hidden Cognitive Strain (HCS) in Technical Professionals
Connect with Jason McDaid, BSc (Hons) PMSFPE MIEI MIFSM on LinkedIn
AEC PM Certification
AEC PM Connect
Project Management Accelerator™
Engineering Leadership Accelerator™
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