Engineering Management Institute

EMI

TECC 311: How to Get the Most Out of Your Engineering Internship

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Engineering InternshipIn this episode, we talk with Sam LaMontanaro P.E., C.E.M., Director of Engineering at Aufgang Architects, LLC, about internship programs that are tailored for young engineers. We delve into the exciting opportunities these programs offer and how they equip aspiring engineers to conquer real-world challenges in the industry. Additionally, for those contemplating fieldwork, we explore the significant benefits young engineers can derive from hands-on experience and how it fosters their professional growth.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Engineering Internship

Engineering Internship

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Get the Most Out of Your Engineering Internship:

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Understanding and Managing Professional Liability Claims in Engineering Projects

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Professional Liability ClaimsImage by pch.vector on Freepik

Professional liability claims are a significant aspect of the engineering industry, demanding the attention of project managers and design professionals. By understanding the causes and consequences of these claims, professionals can take proactive measures to prevent them and protect their projects and reputations. Because this topic is so important, I interviewed John Lowe, P.E., the author of “A Guide to Managing Engineering and Architectural Design Services Contracts: What Every Project Manager Needs to Know,” and the following are the answers he provided to our questions.

Question:

John, could you briefly describe yourself and your daily responsibilities for our listeners?

Answer:

I grew up in Florida, spending most of my life there, and I earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Florida in 1961. After three years as an army pilot, I joined a Florida engineering firm where I managed projects in both the private and public sectors. As my career progressed, I went on to manage departments and eventually an entire office. I moved to California for 10 years before settling in Portland, OR, where I currently reside.

With 46 years as a consultant, I’m now semi-retired and have embarked on a second career by establishing Low Consulting LLC. My new focus primarily revolves around aiding design professionals in navigating business risks within their practice, a topic I cover in my self-published book that delves into effective management of engineering and architectural design service projects, encompassing knowledge essential for project managers. Over time, I’ve been invited as a guest speaker at local universities, professional society gatherings, and various events. Married with three adult children and two stepchildren, I usually begin my day with a devotional, followed by teaching pursuits and writing work on my book. Additionally, I actively engage in nonprofit activities geared toward supporting active-duty military personnel and veterans.

Question:

Why should we invest time in discussing professional liability claims, considering their infrequent occurrence, particularly when project managers need to consider all project aspects?

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TEPM 026: Expert Negotiation Strategies for Managing Scope Creep

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Negotiation StrategiesIn this episode, I talk with Dan Oblinger, a commanding hostage negotiator, esteemed author, international keynote speaker, and skilled consultant specializing in business negotiation, about negotiation strategies for managing scope creep in engineering projects and how to navigate the complexities of forging robust agreements.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Negotiation Strategies

Negotiation Strategies

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Dan:

  • What are the similarities and differences between negotiating with a hostage taker and negotiating with a client?
  • Within the realm of engineering project management, how can engineers strategically incorporate the element of time to enhance their negotiation position?
  • What are some of the most common mistakes that engineers make when negotiating?
  • How can engineers use negotiation to build stronger relationships with their clients?
  • From your perspective, what are some of the key skills that engineers need to develop to be effective negotiators?
  • What strategies can engineering managers employ to instill a culture of effective negotiation within their organizations and projects?
  • What are some of the challenges of negotiating in a relationship-based project delivery environment and how can engineers overcome these challenges and negotiate successful outcomes?
  • For those looking to improve their negotiating skills, what key advice or practices would you recommend they focus on?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Expert Negotiation Strategies for Managing Scope Creep:

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TSEC 111: The Ultimate Guide to Career Success for Structural Engineers

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Career Success for Structural EngineersIn this episode, I discuss strategies for achieving career success for structural engineers with Nabeal (Newton) W. Khatib, M.S., P.E., founder & CEO of Legendfortutoring, LLC. We also explore the process of curating a comprehensive library specifically designed to cater to the requirements of the structural depth Professional Engineer (P.E.) exam.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Career Success for Structural Engineers

Career Success for Structural Engineers

Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Nabeal:

  • What skills do you believe current or aspiring structural engineers should possess, and do you have any advice for enhancing or expediting their career advancement?
  • What’s the optimal way to provide training and address knowledge gaps without demoralizing individuals by implying they should have learned certain things in school?
  • Is transitioning straight from management training to supervising engineers effective, or is it better to consider that engineers also need training and mentoring from the supervisor?
  • Can you briefly summarize the templates you mentioned or worked with that caught your interest?
  • Could you provide insights into preparing for the CBTPE and SC exams, including effective tips and strategies for engineers planning to study for them?
  • Could you explain how the shift from paper and pencil exams, like the P.E. and SEC, to the CBT format impacts individuals who are used to physical books and references, especially in terms of adjusting to a digital environment and navigating this change effectively?
  • Could you provide insights or advice on creating a library and preparing effectively for the structural depth P.E. exam, particularly for individuals attempting it for the first time?
  • With your preparation for the SE exam’s transition to computer-based testing, could you share insights on its implications, both positive and negative?
  • Is there a handbook for the transition to computer-based testing that summarizes equations, which might be useful even if you’re unfamiliar with it?
  • Did you use extra help like guides, practice exams, or mentorship, like what Legend for Tutoring offers, and if yes, how can people reach out for these services?
  • Do you have any last advice for those already in their careers or striving to maximize their professional life, or perhaps some broader life wisdom?

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About the Ultimate Guide to Career Success for Structural Engineers:

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TCEP 244: How to Develop Top Leadership Skills for Engineering Excellence

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Top Leadership SkillsIn this episode, I talk with Jim Rowings, vice president at Kiewit, about developing top leadership skills for engineers in the design and construction field, and the vital role that leadership qualities play in the journey of all engineers.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Top Leadership Skills

Top Leadership Skills

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Jim:

  • Did gaining experience before choosing a master’s degree help you decide the direction you wanted to pursue?
  • Can you describe your early field experiences, the difficulties you faced as a new engineer, and the strategies you employed to enhance your self-assurance?
  • Could you describe your mentoring experiences and offer insights into how we can enhance accessibility to mentoring for younger professionals?
  • Could you share your personal experience in navigating the balance between your technical expertise, including research and education, and your development of leadership skills?
  • How have your leadership skills influenced your career advancement and your effectiveness in leading teams within your various roles?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Develop Top Leadership Skills for Engineering Excellence:

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Applications of Artificial Intelligence in the Built World

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

built worldCivil engineers are designers and builders of many things in the built world, including buildings, roads, bridges, dams, ports, and many others.

No matter the asset, whether new or existing, there is a lot of work to be done — and with what seems like never enough resources.

Fortunately, applications of artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming more common and can help engineers more efficiently complete their tasks — while allowing them to focus on what is most interesting and important.

Today, I would like to summarize some of our top episodes from the AECTECH podcast, all of which relate to use of artificial intelligence in the built world.

If you find these brief summaries interesting, check out the full-length episodes!

1. AECT 009: Using AI and Digital Twins for Industry Asset Management

In this episode, I talk to Dr. Ali Khaloo, Ph.D., the CEO and co-founder of Aren, about what digital twins are and how you can bring digital twins and artificial intelligence to infrastructure asset management.

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Using Artificial Intelligence and Digital Twins for Industry Asset Management:

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AECT 025: The Benefits and Challenges of Using BIM for Electrical Engineering

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BIM for Electrical EngineeringIn this episode, I talk with David Robison, co-founder of Design Master Software, a renowned developer of electrical engineering software, about the impact of building information modeling (BIM) on electrical engineering. David also discusses the current state of BIM for electrical engineering and highlights its remarkable benefits.

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

Engineering Quotes:

BIM for Electrical Engineering

BIM for Electrical Engineering

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask David:

  • Can you discuss the current state of BIM for electrical engineering and its applicability to different professionals?
  • Can you elaborate on the specific challenges that electrical engineers encounter when utilizing these tools in their current practices?
  • Are various engineering disciplines using BIM primarily for coordination with architects and construction documents? At the same time, engineers often seek other tools for their tasks — does your solution aim to provide a comprehensive all-in-one approach?
  • How does BIM’s error reduction capability impact the design process and project outcomes for electrical engineers?
  • How else do you envision enhancing time-saving benefits in implementing BIM for electrical engineers during design and construction?
  • Have you seen how dedicating time upfront to projects, along with incremental efforts, pays off significantly in the long run based on your client experiences?
  • Is it accurate to say that due to programming limitations, most engineers can’t create a solution like yours, leading to a necessary collaboration with your team using iterative processes?
  • How does the combination of BIM and electrical engineering address evolving technology and sustainability demand, and what’s your view on upcoming software development?
  • If an electrical engineer, running their firm, approached you with an interest in using BIM alongside your software, what guidance would you offer to ensure they make the best decision for their needs?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About the Benefits and Challenges of Using BIM for Electrical Engineering:

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TGEP 083: The Vital Role of Ground Engineering in Fostering Safe and Sustainable Infrastructure

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Ground EngineeringIn this episode, we talk with Lorin Bosoc, CEng MICE, a Chartered Civil Engineer and Registered Ground Engineering Professional at Atkins Ground Engineering and Tunneling about the challenges and opportunities of working on ground engineering projects in different regions, the importance of mentorship for aspiring engineers, and strategies for prioritizing employee well-being.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Ground Engineering

Ground Engineering

Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Lorin:

  • As a registered ground engineering professional, what aspects do you find most challenging and fascinating, and how do you address them?
  • Given your experience in both the UK and international markets, how do projects in different regions offer unique challenges and opportunities in ground engineering?
  • Can you briefly introduce the Ground Forum undergraduate mentorship program, elaborate on your role, and highlight its main goals and participant benefits?
  • Could you delve into the role of mentoring in nurturing the growth of aspiring engineers?
  • Could you outline the strategies and initiatives your company has implemented to prioritize the well-being of its employees?
  • What is the impact of maintaining a healthy work-life balance on professional performance and overall job satisfaction?
  • What advice and essential skills or qualities would you recommend to young professionals aspiring to excel in the field of ground engineering, especially those still in school, recently graduated, or beginning their careers?

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About The Vital Role of Ground Engineering in Fostering Safe and Sustainable Infrastructure:

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TECC 310: Engineering a Sustainable Future: Addressing Climate Challenges and Promoting Sustainable Development

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Sustainable DevelopmentIn this episode, we talk to Kirils Holstovs MEng (Hons) GMICE, an engineer at AECOM working in transportation, and a co-lead of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO) Young Engineers / Future Leaders’ Working Group on Climate Action, about sustainable development and innovation in engineering, and how engineers can bridge the science-policy divide in climate action.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Sustainable Development

Sustainable Development

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Addressing Climate Challenges and Promoting Sustainable Development:

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How to Build a Strong Engineering Network: Top 3 Strategies for Successful Networking and Client Relations

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This is a guest post by Tiffani Teachey

client relations

“Networking allows you to learn from others’ experiences and gain valuable insights.” ~ Oprah Winfrey

Networking and client relations are essential skills for any engineer looking to succeed in the modern workplace. Not only will these skills enable engineers to develop their professional connections and relationships, but they will also help them to better understand the needs of their clients and how to best meet them. In this blog, we’ll look at three key points to keep in mind to improve your networking and client relations.

client relations

Get to Know Your Clients

It’s important to take the time to get to know your clients on a personal level. Ask questions to understand their needs, challenges, and goals. This will help you to identify areas of opportunity and suggest solutions that better meet their needs. Additionally, getting to know your clients on a personal level will help to build trust and ensure that your working relationship is mutually beneficial.

Be Professional

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