In this episode, I talk with Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero, Ph.D., P.E., BC.GE., technical project manager and laboratory manager at American Geotechnical & Environmental Services Inc., about how empathetic project leadership in AEC starts with clear communication, mentorship, and strong technical foundations. We discuss leading multidisciplinary project teams and turning complex work into clear outcomes.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero, Ph.D., P.E., BC.GE.:
- In what ways has your leadership approach evolved through mentoring students and managing engineering teams, and how does empathetic project leadership in AEC play a role?
- How do you translate complex technical insights into practical decisions for project stakeholders and team members while maintaining empathy and clarity?
- What does effective project management look like when coordinating multidisciplinary project teams, especially when applying empathetic leadership strategies?
- Besides having a clear scope of work, what other strategies help you avoid miscommunication during projects and support empathetic project leadership in AEC?
- Which lessons or experiences have had the biggest impact on your professional growth as a leader in the AEC industry?
- What’s the most common project management pitfall you’ve seen, and how can others avoid it through empathy and proactive communication?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About the Power of Empathetic Project Leadership in AEC:
- Leadership grows when others begin to rely on your direction and trust your guidance. Mentorship plays a key role by focusing on helping others succeed and preparing them to lead in their own careers through empathetic project leadership in AEC.
- Strong communication helps turn technical ideas into real project outcomes. By simplifying information and adjusting to the audience, engineers ensure decisions are clear, aligned, and effective hallmarks of empathetic leadership.
- Effective management starts with a detailed scope of work and consistent communication that respects time and priorities. Keeping information focused and addressing issues early helps teams stay aligned and reduce risk, supporting empathetic project leadership in AEC environments.
- Setting clear boundaries and addressing misunderstandings early keeps communication on track. Saying no with professionalism builds trust, reduces risk, and protects project goals which are key traits of empathetic leadership in engineering.
- Working at the intersection of consulting and academia provides a broader view of engineering practice. Teaching from lived experience while staying engaged in active projects helps develop both technical depth and empathetic leadership skills.
- A lack of empathy often weakens team performance and trust. AEC project managers who remember what it’s like to be in earlier roles lead more effectively by offering support, feedback, and practical tools for success through empathetic project leadership in AEC.
More Details in This Episode…
About Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero, Ph.D., P.E., BC.GE.
Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero, Ph.D., P.E., BC.GE. is a geotechnical project manager and laboratory manager at American Geotechnical & Environmental Services (AGES) Inc. in Pittsburgh, PA, and an adjunct professor at the University of Pittsburgh. With over 24 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, he specializes in deep and shallow foundation design, earth-retaining structures, and landslide stabilization. He has authored more than 250 technical publications and co-authored the State of Delaware LRFD Bridge Design Manual. A recognized leader in the field, Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero has served in key roles with ASCE and DFI and currently sits on the Board of Trustees for the Academy of Geo-Professionals. His many honors include the 2024 ASCE Fellow distinction and the 2022 DFI President’s Award.
About the Host
Fiona Johann, PMP, AEC PM
Fiona Johann, PMP, joined The Engineering Management Institute as the strategic initiatives team leader in February 2025. With eight years of experience in developing leadership programs in an academic setting, she brings valuable expertise in planning and executing impactful initiatives. Fiona utilizes her PMP certification and program management skills to oversee events like PM AEC Connect and optimize internal processes for improved efficiency. Based in central North Carolina, she combines her strategic approach with a passion for driving successful outcomes at EMI.
Sources/References:
American Geotechnical and Environmental Services, Inc. (A.G.E.S.)
University of Pittsburgh
Deep Foundations Institute (DFI)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Geo-Institute of ASCE
Escuela Colombiana de Ingeniería
Arcadis
Connect with Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero, Ph.D., P.E., BC.GE. on LinkedIn
AEC PM Certification
AEC PM Connect
Project Management Accelerator™
Engineering Leadership Accelerator™
Keynote Speaking
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