In this episode, I talk with Peter Vanderzee, president and CEO of LifeSpan Technologies, about the hurdles of introducing innovative technology to public infrastructure and the transformative breakthroughs driving the industry’s future.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Peter:
- Can you explain what structural monitoring is and how it benefits public infrastructure owners?
- Did you think introducing structural monitoring to bridge owners would be a straightforward process?
- Given the long sales cycle for this innovative technology, how did you secure approval for your first projects?
- How has your approach to selling structural monitoring changed from when you started to now, with more clients and case studies?
- What lessons from your first projects have you applied to your marketing and sales strategies?
- Did LifeSpan’s patented sensor technology help or challenge your early efforts to gain traction in the AEC industry?
- What have you learned over the years about handling data transmission, storage, and analysis, and presenting it effectively to clients?
- How do you ensure the collected data is analyzed and presented in a way that infrastructure owners understand and value?
- What role do you see structural monitoring playing in the future of public infrastructure?
- What advice would you give to engineers and professionals looking to innovate and introduce new technologies in their field?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Why Innovative Technology Is the Future of Public Infrastructure Management:
- Structural monitoring uses sensors to collect accurate, real-time data, addressing the limitations of traditional visual inspections, which are often subjective and overly conservative. This approach enables infrastructure owners to make informed decisions, optimize maintenance, and reduce unnecessary costs.
- Introducing structural monitoring requires a long-term commitment to building trust and demonstrating tangible results. By focusing on delivering measurable benefits, the technology steadily gains acceptance among bridge owners.
- Early projects are secured by addressing critical challenges like load-restricted bridges, which disrupt communities and increase costs. Demonstrating clear cost savings and practical solutions establishes confidence in the value of structural monitoring.
- The approach evolves from educating clients about the technology to using proven case studies and results to showcase its value. This focus on addressing specific client needs strengthens relationships and supports long-term success.
- Highlighting measurable outcomes, such as extending service life and reducing costs, becomes a key part of marketing. Focusing on clear returns on investment and actionable insights makes the technology more appealing to infrastructure owners.
- LifeSpan’s patented technology plays a pivotal role in separating thermal effects from live load impacts, providing clearer and more reliable data. This innovation demonstrates structural safety margins effectively, earning the trust of engineers and infrastructure owners.
- Experienced engineering firms analyze the collected data to ensure accuracy and reliability. Presenting insights in a clear, actionable format helps infrastructure owners confidently address safety and financial priorities.
- Combining advanced monitoring systems with experienced engineering analysis ensures accurate interpretation. Presenting the data in accessible formats allows infrastructure owners to make informed and effective decisions.
- Structural monitoring continues to be vital for extending the life of aging infrastructure and optimizing maintenance strategies. It is expanding beyond bridges to include buildings, parking garages, and other critical structures, ensuring better financial and safety outcomes.
- Collaboration between experienced professionals and digitally skilled engineers ensures advanced technologies are implemented effectively. This teamwork maximizes impact by combining technical knowledge with practical application.
More Details in This Episode…
About Peter Vanderzee
Peter J. Vanderzee is the founder, president, and CEO of LifeSpan Technologies, based in Atlanta, Georgia. With over two decades of experience, he is an expert in structural monitoring technology, recognized for his leadership in the field. Mr. Vanderzee holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and a Master of Engineering in industrial engineering from Texas A&M University.
He began his career as a production engineer for the U.S. Army Electronics Command and later held various executive roles in the energy, mining, construction, and civil engineering industries. In 2000, he founded Launch-Right, LLC, a consulting firm, before transitioning to LifeSpan Technologies in 2002, where he spearheaded the commercialization of innovative structural monitoring solutions.
Mr. Vanderzee is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, contributing to numerous industry conferences and consulting on key national infrastructure projects. He is a member of the Transportation Research Board’s Bridge and Structures Management Committee and has provided expert guidance to federal transportation policymakers.
Residing in Brookhaven, Georgia, with his wife of 53 years, Peter enjoys golf, landscaping, reading, and following college basketball.
About the Host: Nick Heim, P.E.
Nick Heim, P.E., is a civil engineer with seven years of experience in the repair and restoration of existing structures, and host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast (AECTECH), where he brings valuable insights and expertise to listeners worldwide.
Nick’s interests lie at the intersection between the built world and technology, and he can be found looking for the ever-changing answer to the question, “How can we do this better?” Nick can be found on LinkedIn, producing content about use of technologies in his civil engineering career and small business.
Sources/References:
Lifespan Technologies
Federal Highway Administration
Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission
Home Depot
Lowe’s
Menards
Connect with Peter Vanderzee on LinkedIn
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on why innovative technology is the future of public infrastructure management.
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