How Engineering Ethics Shape Better Designs and Project Outcomes – Ep 281

Twitter
Facebook
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Engineering Ethics

In this episode, I talk with Ted Thomson, PhD, PE, BC. GE, LEED AP, Associate Vice President & Geotechnical Division Manager at Pennoni Associates, about how engineering ethics drive better designs, influence project outcomes, and strengthen collaboration in engineering and society.

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

Engineering Quotes:

Engineering Ethics

Engineering Ethics

Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Ted:

  • How would you define engineering ethics and the unique ethical responsibilities of engineers compared to other professionals?
  • How does engineering ethics contribute to public welfare and safety, and how should engineers prioritize these aspects?
  • What inspired your focus on engineering ethics, and how do you see it shaping the profession today?
  • In complex projects with multiple stakeholders, how do you ensure that all team members maintain a high ethical standard despite project pressures?
  • What final piece of advice can you offer civil engineers to help them build a strong ethical foundation for making decisions with integrity throughout their careers?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Engineering Ethics Shape Better Designs and Project Outcomes:

  • Engineering ethics is defined as consistently adhering to moral principles, even without supervision, which is essential for maintaining the profession’s integrity and legal accountability. Engineers have unique responsibilities to protect public safety, health, and welfare, making ethical behavior critical to their work and its societal impact.
  • Engineering ethics enhances public welfare and safety by ensuring that engineers act with integrity and uphold high ethical standards, even in difficult situations. This involves a commitment to public well-being and adherence to ethical principles in all professional decisions and actions.
  • A strong commitment to engineering ethics often begins with exposure to ethical practices in organizations and professional associations. This commitment emphasizes the role of ethics in shaping the profession and safeguarding societal welfare through integrity and responsible actions.
  • Maintaining ethical standards in complex projects requires effective communication and teamwork. Open communication allows team members to navigate complex decisions collaboratively and ensures that ethical conduct remains a priority, even when under pressure.
  • Civil engineers strengthen their ethical foundation by consistently prioritizing their clients’ best interests, which builds trust and supports ethical standards. Establishing strong client relationships and maintaining integrity in professional actions ensure long-term success and adherence to ethical principles.

More Details in This Episodeโ€ฆ

About Ted Thomson, PhD, PE, BC. GE, LEED AP

Pennoni AssociatesDr. Thomson serves as an associates vice president and division manager in the Pennoni Associates’ construction services region. Dr. Thomson specializes in the areas of geotechnical and structural design and instrumentation and in-situ geotechnical testing. Dr. Thomson has experience managing multidisciplinary projects including geotechnical design/analysis/reporting, construction observation and material testing, water resources design/consulting, structural design/consulting, environmental consulting/testing, as well as geotechnical and structural instrumentation. Dr. Thomson has acted as a liaison between owners and contractors on a multitude of projects, and he has experience in the area of contract development and negotiation.

Dr. Thomson also serves on the executive committee for the Delaware Association of Professional Engineers (DAPE) as vice president. He chairs the finance, employee benefits & compensation, and facilities committees, as well as co-chairing the law enforcement and ethics committees. In addition to DAPE, Dr. Thomson has formerly served as co-chair for the ACE Mentor – Delaware section ,as well as serving on committees with Green Building United (formerly Delaware Valley Green Building Council). In his off-time, Dr. Thomson enjoys fishing and CrossFit.

Sources/References:

Pennoni
NSPE
Delaware Association of Professional Engineers (DAPE)
National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)
ABET
Connect with Ted Thomson, PhD, PE, BC. GE, LEED AP, on LinkedIn

We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on how engineering ethics shape better designs and project outcomes.

Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.

To your success,

Anthony Fasano, PE, AEC PM, F. ASCE
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Leave a Reply

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

And Get Custom Content Delivered To You Weekly

Categories
TECC Sidebar Featured Final