Engineering Management Institute

AECT - AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast

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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AECT 031: Unraveling the Complexities of the Construction Technology Ecosystem

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Construction Technology EcosystemIn this episode, I talk with Nate Fuller, the founding director at Placer Solutions, about the current state of the information ecosystem in construction technology and the need for high-quality and actionable information for professionals.

Engineering Quotes:

Construction Technology Ecosystem

Construction Technology Ecosystem

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Nate:

  • What is the current state of the information ecosystem?
  • Is there a lack of industry expertise influencing the development of this technology, and is this leading to outsiders claiming they can disrupt the entire AEC ecosystem?
  • Can you explain why there is a significant need for high-quality, actionable information for both construction professionals and technology providers?
  • Does the construction technology sector lack established best practices compared to other trades or professional organizations in the AEC industry?
  • How is your company addressing the need for a resource that provides highly actionable and accurate content?
  • Why do you think implementing new technologies in the field is often the most challenging part of any rollout in the construction industry?
  • How does providing solutions that don’t work add to the workload of already busy individuals?
  • How can one balance using cost-effective technologies while maintaining the quality of information provided, considering that high-cost technology may not be within everyone’s budget?
  • What final insights or thoughts would you like to share that are related to our discussion or any other topic we haven’t covered yet?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Unraveling the Complexities of the Construction Technology Ecosystem:

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AECT 030: Top Skills Engineers Need to Succeed in the Age of Technology

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Age of TechnologyIn this episode, I talk with Markus Weidner, the chief innovation officer at Pennoni, about how this age of technology is normalizing and amplifying our human abilities. We also discuss the increasing amount of collision between engineering and systems design/architecture, and the need for technology backgrounds in engineering.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Age of Technology

Age of Technology

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Markus:

  • Can you provide more information on how engineering and system design intersect in the realm of technology?
  • With the availability of sophisticated technology, is it no longer just about 2D drawings for construction, but rather the comprehensive examination of the entire lifespan of assets?
  • We’ve discussed the benefits of this convergence, but what specific challenges are you currently observing?
  • For practicing engineers, what advice do you offer to prepare for the impending changes and the necessary skills they will require in this age of technology?
  • Can you discuss some of the potential engineering applications that AI offers?
  • What ethical factors should engineers be aware of when utilizing AI?
  • Looking ahead, what do you believe are the key skills needed to thrive in the advancing technological landscape in the coming years?
  • What advice do you have for engineers looking to progress into leadership roles within their field?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About the Top Skills Engineers Need to Succeed in the Age of Technology:

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AECT 029: How Technology Is Making Buildings More Resilient, Sustainable, and Smart

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sustainable buildingsIn this episode, I talk with Shawn Allan, the vice president and global technical leader of Digital Technology at WSP, about how technology is helping to build sustainable buildings, how it’s supporting the transition to net zero, and how it’s helping us to better understand and manage climate risks.

Engineering Quotes:

sustainable buildings

sustainable buildings

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Shawn:

  • How can building designs be optimized for minimal embodied carbon, maximum energy efficiency, resilience to extreme weather, optimal user experiences, and effective sunlight utilization to achieve superior energy performance?
  • How are some of your clients spearheading innovation from the client perspective to understand the impact of their assets or structures on climate change and related parameters?
  • How do emerging technologies contribute to enhancing resilience in the face of climate change and accelerating efforts toward achieving net-zero goals?
  • Can you provide a simpler and more concise overview of ClimateView, a tangible program or software that addresses climate-related concerns?
  • What specific climate resilience questions can ClimateView address, and what types of questions can its technology effectively answer?
  • How can data visualization tools in climate technology be used effectively to engage and inform stakeholders, like architectural renderings for new building projects, to communicate complex climate-related information more effectively?
  • Considering the varying efficacy levels of climate technology software across different project types, what specific types of projects do you believe it is particularly well-suited for?
  • Can you provide specific examples or case studies that demonstrate the benefits experienced by end users who have used the software and technology?
  • What are the anticipated future trends in climate resilience technology, and how will they be compatible and integrated with the existing technological landscape?
  • What advice would you give to aspiring engineers who want to follow a similar career path to yours?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Technology Is Making Buildings More Resilient, Sustainable, and Smart:

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AECT 028: How Construction Technology Is Revolutionizing the AEC Industry

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Construction Technology

In this episode, I talk with Will Synnott BEng, CGeol, director of strategic accounts at Disperse, about how Disperse uses technology to solve some of the biggest challenges facing the construction industry. He also talks about his journey transitioning from a career in engineering to a sales role within a technology company.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Construction Technology

Construction Technology

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Will:

  • What inspired you to transition from a career in engineering to a sales role within a technology company, and how has this shift impacted your perspective on the construction industry?
  • Can you tell us more about Disperse, what they do, and how they provide actionable data and insights to construction project teams?
  • Many construction project teams face challenges with inaccurate and time-consuming on-site reports. How does Disperse address these issues and improve data accuracy and accessibility?
  • How can the high turnover rate of personnel in construction projects impact data consistency and organization?
  • In the context of Disperse being a Human + AI hybrid platform, can you give us insight into the collaborative process between human expertise and artificial intelligence in optimizing construction data analysis?
  • How can the AEC industry utilize AI to proactively shape the future of the industry?
  • How can construction professionals leverage 360-photos to delegate tasks more effectively and efficiently?
  • With the rapid advancements in technology, where do you foresee the construction industry heading in the next five to 10 years, and how will Disperse play a role in shaping that future?
  • In your experience, what are the most crucial skills or knowledge areas for engineers who want to make a successful transition into careers in construction technology?
  • How crucial is adaptability in a dynamic startup environment where the customer needs and market strategies frequently change, and what benefits can those seeking to transition into such roles gain from connecting with individuals for insights and opportunities in this field?
  • What advice would you give to aspiring professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the construction technology field, given your unique career journey and experiences?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Construction Technology Is Revolutionizing the AEC Industry:

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AECT 027: How AI Is Transforming Engineering: Challenges, Opportunities, and Expert Advice

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AI Is Transforming EngineeringIn this episode, I talk with Mehdi Nourbakhsh, Ph.D., author, speaker, and CEO of YegaTech, about the different types of AI, how AI is transforming engineering, and the challenges and opportunities it brings. We also discuss Mehdi’s book, “Augment It,” and he shares some great advice for aspiring engineers who are interested in pursuing a career in AI.

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

Engineering Quotes:

AI Is Transforming Engineering

AI Is Transforming Engineering

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Mehdi:

  • How does YegaTech use AI to help AEC companies with their operational strategy?
  • Have you observed the increasing adoption of emerging technologies at all levels of companies, from individual contributors to CEOs?
  • What motivated you to write your book, called “Augment It,” and how has it been received?
  • Can you define artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of engineering?
  • What are the challenges and opportunities of using AI in engineering?
  • What advice would you give to an AEC firm that is interested in using AI but does not know where to start?
  • How would your advice on AI strategy for market differentiation differ for C-suite executives and individual implementers?
  • What other resources would you recommend to our listeners to help them better understand how AI can be used in engineering?
  • What advice would you give to engineers who want to incorporate AI into their current careers or transition to an AI-focused career?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How AI Is Transforming Engineering:

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AECT 026: How Drones and AI Are Revolutionizing Facade Inspection

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Façade InspectionIn this episode, I talk with Jonathan Ehrlich, the chief operating officer of T2D2, an artificial intelligence asset inspection software platform used by engineers, architects, and building owners to make their inspection workflow faster, cheaper, and more accurate. Jonathan is an expert in the integration of drones and artificial intelligence in façade inspection, and in this episode, we discuss the benefits, challenges, and prospects of using these cutting-edge technologies.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Façade Inspection

Façade Inspection

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Jonathan:

  • Why are façade inspections important, and how does your product help engineers and architects conduct them?
  • How are government entities in New York City evolving their regulations to keep the public safe from aging infrastructure?
  • What are the advantages of using drones for façade inspection, either alone or in combination with traditional methods?
  • How can drones and human inspectors work together to create a better façade inspection?
  • What are some of the limitations or challenges of using drone technology for façade inspection?
  • What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of using AI for façade inspection and analysis in the building industry?
  • What tangible next steps can be taken after the analysis of data collected from AI-powered façade inspection?
  • Do you think orthomosaics can help inspection professionals make better decisions by providing a larger context of the façade?
  • How can façade inspection professionals differentiate between what AI can tell them and what AI cannot tell them, given the limitations of AI?
  • What are the future advancements and developments in the integration of drone inspection and façades?
  • What are the next steps for engineers who want to get involved in AI-based drone inspections of façades?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Drones and AI Are Revolutionizing Façade Inspections:

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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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AECT 024: How AI is Changing the Software Engineering Landscape

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Software EngineeringIn this episode, I talk with On Freund, the co-founder and CEO of Wilco, a startup dedicated to empowering developers to unlock their full potential, about the transformative impact of AI on software engineering. We also dive into the significance of coding as a tool and discuss the importance of training everyone to become engineers in our rapidly evolving technological landscape.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Software Engineering

Software Engineering

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask On:

  • Could you provide additional details about your startup and its mission to empower developers?
  • Having managed software teams for an extended period, what key insights have you acquired regarding unleashing the full potential of individuals and developers?
  • If you could simulate your career path, would it reveal the infinite possible trajectories it could have taken?
  • Can you discuss your perspective on why AI is causing a shift in software engineering, transforming it from a profession into a skill set?
  • Have you ever found yourself wanting to improve your work processes beyond tools like Excel, and now, with the prospect of using AI, does it seem that your platform is making this advancement accessible to everyone?
  • Why is it important to provide comprehensive training to everyone in today’s technology-driven world, and how does this benefit both individuals and society?
  • Which recent trends in the software engineering domain have particularly captured your attention?
  • Could you share any personal experiences where generative AI has had an impact on software engineering processes or outcomes?
  • Is the key challenge primarily about educating people, showing them available options, dispelling misconceptions, and highlighting the technology’s potential benefits?
  • How do your hobbies outside of work complement your activities in the software engineering field?
  • What advice would you offer to individuals, whether they are software engineers, engineers from various disciplines, or anyone aiming to excel in the realm of technology?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How AI is Changing the Software Engineering Landscape:

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AECT 023: A New Approach to Improving Road Safety and Efficiency with AI Road Assessment

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AI Road AssessmentIn this episode, I talk with Dan Porcaro, VP of Sales and Partnerships at RoadBotics (now part of Michelin), about the fascinating world of AI road assessment technology. He also talks about the importance of partnerships with civil engineering firms and share some valuable advice for engineers looking to leverage AI and innovative technologies.

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

Engineering Quotes:

AI Road Assessment

AI Road Assessment

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Dan:

  • How does RoadBotics’ AI-powered road assessments benefit communities worldwide?
  • Could you please provide more specific information about the entities involved in your initiative, particularly if you are referring to dots, cities, municipalities, or other stakeholders?
  • What are some of the challenges your team encountered and what strategies did you employ to overcome them?
  • How did you establish partnerships with civil engineering firms, creatively blending old and new approaches to present a solution that suited everyone’s needs and surpassed traditional practices?
  • How does AI help engineers by taking on tedious tasks like crack and pothole counting, allowing them to concentrate on their core expertise?
  • With the recent acquisition of RoadBotics by Michelin, what specific implications and opportunities does this hold for RoadBotics moving forward?
  • What advice would you offer to engineers who want to utilize AI and other innovative technologies in their infrastructure work but are unsure of where to begin or how to proceed?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Improving Road Safety and Efficiency with AI Road Assessment:

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