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TSEC 58: Innovation and Product Testing in Engineering

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product testing in engineeringIn this episode of The Structural Engineering Podcast, we talk to Annie Kao, PE, Vice President of Engineering at Simpson Strong-Tie about innovation and product testing in engineering and why seismic retrofitting is so important in structural engineering.

Engineering Quotes:


Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Annie in This Episode:

  • What would you say makes a good engineering leader?
  • What is your involvement in the research and development sector of Simpson Strong-Tie?
  • You are also responsible for innovation across all product lines at Simpson Strong-Tie. What does that entail?
  • Can you tell us more about the product testing and training that is done at Simpson?
  • What are some of the latest advancements in construction technology that have a direct impact on the structural engineering industry?
  • Why is seismic retrofitting important in structural engineering?
  • What advice can you give young students out there that might consider pursuing a career in the engineering industry?

Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Innovation and Product Testing in Engineering:

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TGEP 13: Dynamic Compaction: Insight From a Geotechnical Engineer

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Dynamic CompactionIn this episode, we talk to Chris Woods, a geotechnical engineer with over 20 years of project-related experience throughout the continental United States, and Vice President for the Virginia-based dynamic compaction specialty contractor, Densification, Inc. about the importance of industry involvement and relationships in construction, transitioning from consultant to a contractor, and the applicability of dynamic compaction.

Engineering Quotes:

Dynamic Compaction

Dynamic Compaction

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Chris Woods:

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How to Support Women in Your Workplace

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 This is a guest blog by Holly Welles

Support WomenIn the engineering industry, only 13% of professionals are women. Moreover, only 30% of women who earned a bachelor’s in engineering remain in the field for more than 20 years. Often, workplace culture, a lack of appreciation for their skills, and gender discrimination, in general, drive them away from the industry. This is a detriment to the engineering world as the industry’s workplace diversity dwindles. In addition, it negatively impacts female engineers. 

Engineering is a swiftly growing industry that promises excellent pay, good benefits, and the chance to make a difference in the world. From green building to virtual reality, the industry continues to shift and transform with technology. Women deserve as much of a chance to establish a fulfilling career in this exciting field. However, if female engineers are to persist in their field, they need the support of their employers and coworkers. Here is how you can support women in your workplace:

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Redefining Business Development for Engineering Professionals

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This is a guest blog by Lindsay Diven, CPSM

Redefining Business DevelopmentIt’s interesting that in the engineering industry, our sales teams are often referred to as Business Developers or Client Managers. The sound of the word “sales” makes you think of a used car salesperson or a telemarketer. I get it. You studied to be an engineer and practice your craft with pride, as you should. You are very skilled in your expertise.

However, there is a point, when you must win that next project for your team or firm. This typically involves finding potential new clients and meeting with decision makers. Having worked with engineers for more than a decade, I know that this is easier said than done.

Resisting Business Development Meetings

You may resist meeting with clients because you feel you must sell your experience and ideas. This often feels like a “dog and pony show.” The clients often feel this way too. They don’t want to sit in an hour-long meeting listening to how great you and your firm are. They are busy too and more often not taking as many “sales” meetings or are making them shorter. I have experienced some clients only giving us 15 minutes!

So, how do you make business development easier for you and more accepting for your clients? How do you make those type of meetings valuable to both you and your client so that each party feels their time wasn’t wasted?

You do this by redefining business development.

First, let’s start with the original definition.

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