Career Goals: A Flexible Approach to Failure and Success

Whether student or engineer, society seems to indicate that goals should part of a career routine. But have you contemplated the true purpose of goals — perhaps to obtain success, prestige, or happiness? And how are we supposed to manage failure when our goals fall short? This article offers practical exercises to help you manage […]
How to Empower Your Engineering Teams More Effectively – Ep 054

In this episode, I talk with Jacob Borchers, P.E., PMP, vice president at WSP USA, about what it takes to lead successful engineering teams and projects. We dive into why building a solid engineering foundation is crucial, how to empower your team to perform at their best, and the key strategies that drive large-scale project […]
How to Navigate Difficult Conversations as an AEC Leader – Ep 332

In this episode, I talk to Madi McIntyre-Holmes, SHRM-CP, HR coordinator at Menard USA, about how AEC leaders in fast-paced industries can navigate difficult conversations, strengthen their teams, and balance policies with empathy for better leadership and team growth. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Navigate Difficult Conversations […]
How to Utilize Steel Castings in Modern Construction – Ep 139

In this episode, we talk with Carlos de Oliveira, MASc., P. Eng., president and CEO of Cast Connex, and Michael Gray, Ph.D., P. Eng., executive vice president at Cast Connex, about their journey in revolutionizing connection design engineering through custom steel castings. They discuss key projects like the MSG Sphere and NASA’s Mobile Launcher 2, […]
Ethical Leadership in Engineering: Part 2 ‘The How’

Part of the “Leadership Excellence in Engineering” Series (Section II: Managing Teams) Introduction: The How In my early career as an engineer, I faced a tough ethical dilemma. A client pressured our team to cut corners to meet a tight deadline, but the safety of future users was at risk. It was a defining moment […]
Embracing AI and Automation in Engineering – Insights From Industry Innovators

As engineering professionals, we are constantly exploring innovative technologies to enhance our industry, improve efficiency, and uphold public safety. Today, I want to share insights from industry leaders who are leading the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation into engineering practice. These experts are leading the push for digital transformation, introducing ideas and workflows […]
How to Encourage Tech Adoption in Engineering Teams – Ep 053

In this episode, I talk with Bhragan Paramanantham, a professional engineer at AECOM, about the key steps to driving tech adoption in engineering teams. We explore the power of taking action, building meaningful relationships, and using automation to boost productivity. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some […]
How to Overcome Challenges in Mega-Engineering Projects – Ep 111

In this episode, we talk with Eddie Chiarelli, vice president at New York Concrete Corp. & Strata Industries Corp, about tackling mega engineering projects like the Gateway Tunnel. Discover how innovative strategies, strong teamwork, and a focus on how sustainability can help overcome the challenges of large-scale construction. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the […]
How Engineers Can Tackle Urban Planning Challenges Better – Ep 272

In this episode, I talk with Wes Marshall, Ph.D., P.E., professor and associate chair of civil engineering at the University of Colorado Denver, about his book, “Killed by a Traffic Engineer,” and how engineers can help to solve the biggest transportation and urban planning challenges. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked […]
How Women in Their 40s Can Reignite Their Engineering Careers – Ep 026

In this episode, I talk with Sairan Aqrawi, M.Sc., design coordinator team lead at WMATA, about how women in their 40s and beyond can reignite their leadership potential in engineering, embrace new technologies, build confidence, and unlock the growth needed to thrive and make a lasting impact in their careers. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some […]