In this episode, I talk with Tejal Patel, P.E., CME, LEED AP, associate and client manager at T&M Associates, about balancing technical expertise with leadership and client relationships. We dive into strategies for managing teams, transitioning into business development, and driving long-term success.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Tejal:
- What strategies do you use to balance technical accuracy with meeting deadlines, budgets, and client expectations?
- In what ways can you make the most of your team’s strengths while keeping an eye on the bigger picture as a leader?
- How has your technical background helped you earn clients’ trust in business development, and what challenges have you faced along the way?
- What challenges have you encountered moving from junior engineer to project manager and business developer, and what lessons have you learned about adaptability?
- Can you share your approach to explaining complex technical ideas to clients in simple terms and how strong client relationships have benefited your work?
- What methods do you use to help young engineers grow their technical and leadership skills while promoting innovation and business success?
- What final advice would you give AEC professionals on balancing technical work, project management, and business development while staying up to date with industry trends?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Blending Technical Expertise and Leadership for Professional Growth:
- Balancing technical accuracy with deadlines, budgets, and client expectations relies on leveraging team strengths and promoting open communication. Setting clear goals, conducting regular check-ins, and encouraging collaboration help maintain technical precision while meeting project constraints effectively.
- Recognizing and utilizing team members’ unique skills strengthens collaboration and empowers them to take ownership of their work. Pairing this with clear goals and consistent communication ensures technical accuracy while allowing the team to remain creative and aligned with the project’s overall vision.
- A strong technical foundation builds trust with clients by demonstrating expertise and addressing their concerns confidently. However, transitioning into business development also requires adaptability and continuous learning to bridge technical insights with strategic thinking and client relationship-building.
- The transition from junior engineer to project manager and business developer requires balancing technical expertise with leadership and strategic responsibilities. Embracing adaptability, seeking feedback, and continuously learning are essential for overcoming challenges and succeeding in these evolving roles.
- Simplifying complex technical concepts by using relatable language and avoiding jargon creates clear communication with clients. Building trust through transparent and respectful collaboration strengthens relationships, leading to repeat business and new opportunities.
- Mentoring young engineers includes gradually increasing their responsibilities, encouraging problem-solving, and building confidence through constructive feedback. By passing down knowledge and promoting innovation, leaders prepare the next generation to contribute to impactful and sustainable infrastructure projects.
- AEC professionals should emphasize clear communication, adaptability, and continuous learning to balance technical, managerial, and business roles effectively. Documenting experiences, staying connected with industry developments, and building collaborative relationships ensure long-term success and professional growth.
More Details in This Episode…
About Tejal Patel, P.E., CME, LEED-AP
Tejal Patel is an associate and client manager at T&M Associates, a nationally recognized consulting firm specializing in environmental, engineering, technical services, and construction management. With over 25 years of experience, she has a proven track record in managing and designing large-scale transportation planning, infrastructure improvements, traffic engineering projects, and private site developments. Patel’s expertise spans municipal engineering, construction management, transportation engineering, and water resources engineering.
From 2013 to 2020, Patel held a government role, gaining deep insights into public sector operations. She has a strong ability to work effectively with residents, elected officials, and government staff and possesses an in-depth knowledge of NJDOT policies, municipal land use laws, and ordinances. Her project management experience extends across New Jersey, with notable work in counties such as Monmouth, Mercer, Middlesex, Bergen, Camden, Passaic, and Burlington.
A passionate advocate for the role of engineering in public welfare, Patel is a dynamic business leader known for guiding projects from concept development through final design and construction. She provides strategic direction for T&M’s municipal engineering services and is dedicated to fostering inclusive leadership, believing that diverse voices contribute to successful outcomes. As a champion of “Women in Engineering,” she emphasizes the importance of balancing assertiveness with empathy and inclusivity.
Patel is also the first Asian American woman elected as President-Elect of the New Jersey society of professional engineers. In 2023, she was honored by NJBIZ as one of the best 50 women in business. Her leadership style is grounded in honesty, trust, and the belief that engineering has the transformative power to turn ideas into reality.
About the Host: Matthew Douglas
Matthew currently serves as a content creator and host of The Engineering Project Management Podcast. As a civil engineer by trade, Matthew has developed a passion for construction and stormwater management by way of maintenance and rehabilitation services. Matthew has also had experience working under private consulting firms, and public agencies and has even held a role of an educator. As such, he loves to lead, build, mentor, and help those in need.
Most recently, during his time working for the public sector, he has taken the role of Public Works Operations Manager. There he led quite a few public infrastructure rehabilitation projects and implemented new asset management technologies at a very young age. It is here that the passion for “fixing what’s broken” developed.
Books Mentioned in This Episode:
The Engineering Executive’s Premiere
The Power of Positive Thinking
Sources/References:
T&M Associates
New Jersey Society of Professional Engineers
Connect with Tejal Patel, P.E., CME, LEED-AP, on LinkedIn
This Episode is Brought to You by PPI
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