In this episode, I talk with Dr. Bellandra Foster, P.E., about finding one’s passion and purpose in engineering and making career decisions based on those factors. She also shares insights on coaching, the overlooked costs of being a boss, and the importance of family and self-time.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Bellandra:
- Can you share insights about the secret place of importance and its role in your life?
- Has mastering the art of active listening, including the challenges of silence, played a significant role in guiding your path in both professional and personal aspects?
- How would you advise someone to discover their passion and purpose, particularly in the field of engineering?
- How has recognizing your passion and purpose influenced your career decisions and achievements?
- Can you briefly discuss the importance of coaching from both the perspective of being a coach and having a coach?
- How does playing for the home team apply to you professionally and personally, considering the secret place aspect you mentioned?
- What are some frequently overlooked costs associated with being in a leadership position?
- Why are family time and personal time important?
- What last piece of advice would you offer to those striving for success in both their professional and personal lives?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Unlocking Potential by Finding Passion in Engineering:
- Growing up in a religious setting, Bellandra stresses the importance of finding a quiet, spiritual space for guidance. Initially discussed in her success book, it has evolved into listening to God for direction. This space became crucial during her parents’ passing and early business success, helping her make decisions in home, marriage, and business. Bellandra highlights the value of silent reflection in navigating life’s challenges with spiritual guidance.
- In business, discernment and prayer guide decision-making. Recognizing not every client or opportunity aligns, setbacks are seen as potential blessings for others, leading to active referrals to better-suited companies. The core principle is doing for others what one would want in return, encapsulating a thoughtful approach to business.
- Bellandra’s journey in engineering reflects a commitment to passion and purpose, navigating challenges and embracing joy in program management. Retirement isn’t a priority as long as the work remains enjoyable. Recent recognition, including being named the Michigan State University distinguished Alumni in 2022, validates Bellandra’s chosen path, affirming she is on the right track.
- Knowing your passion and purpose is crucial for fulfilling your unique destiny. Trust that your path is guided by a higher purpose, enabling you to mentor and coach others by setting an example. Leading with honesty and integrity, acknowledging imperfections while striving to be a positive influence. If you’re exploring coaching, remember that commitment is vital. Coaching involves personal action steps and a shared plan.
- In your professional journey, mentors can play a vital role, even if you don’t realize it. While coaching is an option, especially in areas like small business and life transitions, success depends on your commitment and effort. Coaching works best when you value your goals more than anyone else does.
- To strike a balance between work and family life, consider delving into entrepreneurship, drawing inspiration from your professional network’s insights into diverse industries. Optimize efficiency and family time by maintaining a home office. Juggling business growth and family priorities means playing for your home team, and consistently prioritizing well-being and family above all.
- A frequently overlooked cost of leadership is the challenge of maintaining a work-life balance. The term “balance” is often used, but the real issue is establishing work-life priority. This means giving time and effort to personal and family life, and recognizing that life, including relationships like marriage, should come first. In leadership roles, the toll on personal and family time is a significant and underestimated cost.
- In life, it’s crucial to avoid stress and negativity. Learning to say “no” and letting go of draining relationships, whether personal or professional, is essential. Recognize when a connection has served its purpose, even if it’s not about dislike. Liberation comes from setting boundaries and understanding that not every relationship is meant to last a lifetime. Trust your instincts, just like moving away from stress and resisting the urge to revisit it.
- Establish priorities and stick to them. Each morning, take a moment to pray for guidance and the well-being of loved ones. Express gratitude and seek discernment to ensure nothing disrupts your day. It’s a simple practice to maintain a positive mindset in the face of potential challenges.
More Details in This Episode…
About Dr. Bellandra Foster, P.E.
Dr. Bellandra Foster is a distinguished professional in the field of civil engineering, currently serving as the president of BBFoster Consulting, PC since August 2014. With her extensive experience and expertise, she leads the company in providing innovative engineering solutions and consultancy services. Dr. Foster’s academic background is as impressive as her professional trajectory. She earned her Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Michigan State University, where she also completed her Bachelor of Science in Structural Engineering, demonstrating her deep-rooted connection with the institution. Further enhancing her expertise, Dr. Foster holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from Wayne State University and a specialized certification in Intelligent Transportation Systems from the University of Michigan’s Department of Electrical Engineering.
In addition to her leadership role at BBFoster Consulting, Dr. Foster has also made significant contributions as the president and principal engineer at BBF Engineering Services, PC. Her commitment to the field extends beyond her professional duties; she has been an active member of the Michigan State University College of Engineering Advisory Board for eight years, where her insights and experience greatly benefit the academic community.
Dr. Foster’s career is marked by a dedication to excellence in civil engineering, both in practice and in education. Her work reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of modern infrastructure and transportation systems, and her leadership roles underscore her commitment to advancing the field.
About the Host: K. James Taylor, Jr., P.E.
K. James Taylor, Jr., P.E., is a licensed professional engineer and an associate vice president at Verdantas, an emerging environmental, engineering, and technical consulting company with a green, sustainable, and people-first approach in the foreground. James has over 17 years of experience in civil engineering in the land development and municipal fields. Land development services include the design of subdivisions and site plans for compliance with local codes and ordinances, civil/site engineering, stormwater management, road design, and utility design. James has served as a project manager since 2018. In 2021, James was recognized with the Outstanding Project Manager Award at Duffield Associates (now Verdantas) for outstanding performance as a project manager and his consistent display of leadership traits valued by the company, including scheduling, management, proactive communication, collaboration, responsiveness, and client-focused service.
James was selected as the 2021 Young Engineer of the Year by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Delaware Section and served as the President of the Delaware Engineering Society and the New Professionals Director on the NSPE Board of Directors from 2021-2023.
Books Mentioned in This Episode:
For Love of Money, Seven Guidelines for Achieving Success in Your Home and Business
Sources/References:
BBFoster Consulting
Bechtel
Michigan State University
Oakland County Road Commission
ICF-certified coach
Mayor Maynard Jackson
Connect with Dr. Bellandra Foster, P.E., on LinkedIn
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on how you unlocked your potential by finding passion in engineering.
Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.
