Engineering Management Institute

EMI

TSEC 118: The Role of Functional Recovery in Structural Engineering

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Functional RecoveryIn this episode, we talk with Ryan Kersting, SE, FSEAOC, principal at Buehler and current NCSEA President, about functional recovery in structural engineering, and how engineers can deepen their understanding and contribute to improving community resilience. He also talks about NCSEA (National Council of Structural Engineers Associations), exploring its essence and ways for engineers to engage with this organization.

***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:

Functional Recovery

Functional Recovery

Functional Recovery

Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Ryan:

  • Is the Functional Recovery Task Committee addressing the same concept as life safety, but using different terminology, considering the focus on building performance versus life safety?
  • Could you provide an overview of NCSEA, including its vision, mission, and overall objectives?
  • Do some states not have the 44 SEA organizations, and are they more actively engaged in NCSEA since it might be their primary structural engineering organization?
  • Can you share how your firm supported your involvement, addressing the common challenge of time constraints or lack of support faced by many structural engineers?
  • Can the firm you work for accommodate you through various life phases, considering factors like work-life balance and flexibility that engineers prioritize?
  • Could you provide more insight into the future goals of NCSEA and elaborate on what the organization is aiming to achieve?
  • What are your thoughts on the NCSEA summit, especially for first-time attendees, considering its diverse focus on technical sessions, community engagement, and topics like diversity and mental health, and is the capital SEE in the “We SEE Above and Beyond” campaign an acronym?
  • Are there any other NCSEA plans or projects that you would like to discuss?
  • How is NCSEA organized, particularly for initiatives like media spokesperson training, and is there a specific committee where members undergo training to become potential interviewees for media inquiries?
  • Can you provide a brief introduction to the concept of resilience and functional recovery, particularly for engineers outside the West Coast, and share your role and involvement in the new committee?
  • How does designing buildings for functional recovery bridge the gap in the current code, especially when considering its significant impact on communities, as seen in events like the Northridge earthquake?
  • What difficulties are there in pushing for seismic resilience legislation in California, and what actions or strategies are being used to overcome these challenges?
  • What is the process like for a practicing engineer going to the Capitol and talking to politicians about our work, and is it typically a collaborative effort involving the entire NCSEA committee presenting our findings?
  • What advice would you give to younger engineers as they embark on their careers?

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About the Role of Functional Recovery in Structural Engineering:

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TCEP 251: Navigating the Dynamic Landscape of Transmission Engineering

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Transmission EngineeringIn this episode, I talk with Alexandra Lee, P.E., staff civil engineer at Burns & McDonnell, about her unique approach to engineering design, particularly in balancing traditional methods with innovative solutions in transmission and utility projects.

***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:

Transmission Engineering

Transmission Engineering

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Alexandra:

  • When did your initial exposure to transmission engineering occur, and what specifically ignited your interest in this field?
  • What has been the most surprising or unexpected aspect of transmission engineering that you’ve encountered?
  • Can you share details about the clients you work with within the transmission field, including their needs and expectations, especially for those who may not be familiar with transmission?
  • Can you share which projects you’ve found particularly fulfilling or enjoyable among the ones you’ve worked on so far, and elaborate on the different types of projects that stand out to you?
  • Do you consider the primary distinction between traditional transmission utility projects and renewables to be the schedule or timeline?
  • How would you characterize the companies that provide our home gas and electric services, considering they’re private entities but with a unique characterization?
  • How do you maintain a fresh and innovative design approach in a field often perceived as rigid and traditional?
  • Considering your background in natural resources and environmental sciences, how do you incorporate environmental considerations into your current projects?
  • What advice would you offer young engineers aspiring to maintain a creative approach in their careers, especially in the highly technical and often rigid field of engineering?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Navigating the Dynamic Landscape of Transmission Engineering:

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Top Skills Engineers Need to Succeed in the Age of Technology

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This is a guest blog by Nick Heim, P.E.

Skills Engineers NeedAs engineering professionals, we continually seek innovative ways to improve our industry, enhance efficiency, and ensure the safety of the public.

In the continuously changing realm of technology, the convergence of traditional methodologies with cutting-edge technologies has sparked a paradigm shift, necessitating a recalibration of essential skills engineers need to thrive.

Today, I would like to highlight some of the themes discussed in Episode #030 of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast, where Markus Weidner, CIO at Pennoni, and I discussed the top skills engineers need to succeed in the age of technology.

If you find this summary interesting, check out the full-length episode!

Integration of Engineering and Technology:

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AECT 032: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Deep: Next-Generation Underwater Robotic Systems

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Underwater Robotic SystemsIn this episode, I talk with Brad Clause, global account executive at VideoRay, about the innovations behind VideoRay’s Mission Specialist Underwater Robotic Systems, their unique features, and their adaptability. We also explore their applications, partnerships, and exciting future developments.

***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:

Underwater Robotic Systems

Underwater Robotic Systems

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Brad:

  • Can you discuss VideoRay’s mission specialist, and underwater robotic systems and how they have redefined the inspection class category?
  • What is a high-level example of a project where a customer utilized one of your products?
  • How do the power and maneuverability of these robots contribute to their effectiveness in navigating challenging environments?
  • When it comes to mission planning, is it more of a desk-based activity before heading into the field with the robot, or does it involve a combination of office and on-site work?
  • How do these robots operate at significant depths for extended periods, and what factors contribute to their ability to do so?
  • What kind of mission would require the vehicles to stay underwater for an extended period?
  • Can you provide examples of organizations that offer accessories to enhance the vehicles for specific use cases, expanding their functionality?
  • How has the technology benefited the U.S. Navy as one of your clients?
  • Can you discuss the advantages of deploying robots in hazardous situations instead of humans?
  • How has your experience been integrating VideoRay’s systems with AEC workflows, and could you offer insights into the types of projects they are involved in?
  • What are some other commonly encountered built-world assets where the application of underwater vehicles and technology could be beneficial?
  • Can you provide insights into the organization and share what they are incorporating into the realm of video?
  • What new things are you expecting in the future for underwater vehicles, and how do you think these changes will affect your customers, especially those in the AEC sector?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Next-Generation Underwater Robotic Systems:

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TGEP 090: Harnessing the Power of Geotechnical Engineering for Effective Pavement Design

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Effective Pavement DesignIn this episode, we talk with Prashant Patil, M.S., P.E., a Geotechnical Engineer at Gessner Engineering, LLC, about the intricate factors that shape effective pavement design recommendations.  We also dive deep into geotechnical investigation, and discuss some of the challenges geotechnical engineers encounter on projects.

Engineering Quotes:

Effective Pavement Design

Effective Pavement Design

Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Prashant:

  • Could you provide some details about the projects or activities your company is currently involved in?
  • Can you guide us through the crucial steps and methodologies in geotechnical explorations or investigations?
  • What specific challenges do geotechnical engineers commonly face when conducting investigations for pavement design?
  • With all the challenges and opportunities in geotechnical engineering, why wouldn’t everyone want to pursue a career in it, given its importance and the intriguing challenges it presents?
  • Can you explain how things like soil composition, geological conditions, and environmental factors affect the results of investigations and how they influence recommendations for pavement design?
  • What strategies and conditions are effective in places with extreme weather?
  • When working on pavement design projects that involve diverse structures like highways, parking lots, and airport runways, how do you adjust your approach to accommodate different load-bearing requirements?
  • How vital is it to collect crucial information from your client early on, rather than solely relying on assumptions?
  • How does sustainability factor into pavement design, and what role do geotechnical recommendations play in promoting environmentally responsible infrastructure development?
  • What upcoming trends and innovations do you foresee in geotechnical engineering pavement design that could significantly influence the industry in the future?

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Harnessing the Power of Geotechnical Engineering for Effective Pavement Design:

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WIE 006: Embracing Challenges and Shaping the Future as Women in Engineering

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Embracing ChallengesIn this episode, I talk with Lisa A. DiGerolamo, P.E., a Senior Vice President at Paulus Sokolowski and Sartor, LLC (PS&S), who is known for her outstanding expertise in civil engineering and land development, about her incredible journey navigating the landscape of engineering as a woman, embracing challenges with resilience and wisdom.

Engineering Quotes:

Embracing Challenges

Embracing Challenges

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Lisa:

  • In male-dominated fields, what specific challenges have you faced in your career as a woman, and can you share some of your personal experiences in embracing challenges and overcoming these obstacles?
  • What are some advantages of being a woman in engineering?
  • Can you share insights about mentors or role models who have had an impact on your career in engineering?
  • Have you ever had a mentor who provided advice, but also acted as a sponsor and spoke on your behalf?
  • Could you talk about a specific project in your career that you’re proud of and what made it stand out?
  • How does your involvement in this project showcase your contributions to the field and highlight the broader impact of women in engineering?
  • What can organizations do to make engineering more inclusive and diverse for women?
  • Can you share strategies or insights for women aiming to excel in engineering?
  • What is your vision for the future of women in engineering?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Embracing Challenges and Shaping the Future as Women in Engineering:

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TECC 317: Top Recruiting Strategies for Modern Engineering Firms

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Recruiting StrategiesIn this episode, we talk with Jen Hubbard, recruiter, and talent acquisition at Wallace Design Collective, about recruiting strategies for modern engineering firms and adaptability in considering changes in the job market. Jen also provides tips on candidate sourcing, relationship-building, and successful salary negotiations.

***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:

Recruiting Strategies

Recruiting Strategies

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Top Recruiting Strategies for Modern Engineering Firms:

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Mastering Career Balance: A Blueprint for Engineers

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This is a guest blog by Gina Covarrubias

Career BalanceAn unbalanced engineering career can materialize in several ways, and none of us are immune. Whether we experience too much overwhelm or not enough motivation, here are a few ways we can preserve more career balance.

Adjust Your Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Motivations

We have many motivations for working, which is a great thing! On a high level, we can categorize these motivations as extrinsic and intrinsic.

Extrinsic motivations are driven by things outside of yourself. For example, most of us are motivated to work for money and benefits. Sometimes we’re motivated by new titles or additional respect. These are examples of behaviors fueled by external paybacks or rewards.

It’s a wonderful system; we love getting paid to perform meaningful work that serves the world.

However, there is a danger of implementing too many extrinsic motivations. They can only carry a career so far because emphasis on external paybacks and rewards dismisses its complement—internal paybacks and rewards. How do we generate internal paybacks and rewards? By creating intrinsic motivations.

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TEPM 032: Navigating the Complexities of Project Management in Engineering

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Project Management in EngineeringIn this episode, I talk with Pedro Constanzo, PE, Vice President at Burns & McDonnell, about his expertise related to project management in engineering, infrastructure design, and specifically military base development.

***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:

Project Management in Engineering

Project Management in Engineering

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Pedro:

  • How can stress be managed in multidisciplinary projects while ensuring project success and maintaining motivation, while also managing the stress of team members, both visible and invisible?
  • In your experience with military design, including facilities, infrastructure, and weapon systems, what key challenges have you encountered, and how did you overcome them in these respective fields?
  • In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and AI, can you talk about the latest trends or innovations in military-based development and infrastructure?
  • Do you have a preferred brand for the equipment you use, like the Apple goggles seen on YouTube, or are there specific household brands or names you typically rely on?
  • As a project manager, can you delve into the habits and techniques you incorporate into your project management approach, including any practices you pass on to your team members?
  • Can you share brief insights on how you effectively communicate and encourage collaboration within your team?
  • How do you keep up with new technologies in your industry and decide which ones are beneficial for your projects and team?
  • Reflecting on your journey as a project manager, what advice would you give your younger self when starting in this role?
  • What advice do you have for aspiring engineers or project managers looking to pursue a career like yours and enter the space you’re currently in?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Navigating the Complexities of Project Management in Engineering:

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TSEC 117: Top Tips for Building Your Structural Engineering Network

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Structural Engineering NetworkIn this episode, Rachel and Mat provide you with the top three lessons they have learned throughout their career journey in the hope of inspiring and guiding you on your path to success in the world of structural engineering. Whether you’re at the beginning of your career, in the midst of it, or simply curious about the inner workings of the structural engineering field or building a structural engineering network, this episode is designed to equip you with practical knowledge and inspire you to reach new heights in your professional endeavors.

Engineering Quotes:

Structural Engineering Network

Structural Engineering Network

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Top Tips for Building Your Structural Engineering Network:

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