In this episode, I talk with Michael Reader, CEO, and principal geotechnical engineer at Group Delta Consultants, about overcoming engineering challenges in billion-dollar projects, from unexpected surprises to managing budgets and navigating regulations on California’s most complex infrastructure developments.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Michael:
- How does your independent approach set you apart from larger firms that have grown through acquisitions?
- What unique challenges do you face when working on multi-billion-dollar geotechnical projects, and how do you manage them?
- What leadership strategies have helped you overcome challenges in complex projects?
- How important is collaboration in the success of managing large-scale geotechnical projects?
- What challenges has your team faced on a major project, and how did you overcome them?
- What are the advantages of staying independent, and how has that helped your clients and your company?
- What advice would you give to geotechnical engineers looking to lead large projects or firms like yours?
Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Overcome Engineering Challenges in Billion-Dollar Projects:
- Independent firms excel by taking a hands-on approach, allowing teams to handle everything from simple tasks to highly complex challenges. This adaptability helps them stay more responsive and closely involved with clients, unlike larger firms that often rely on more rigid structures.
- Multi-billion-dollar projects come with tight deadlines and intricate technical demands. These challenges are effectively managed by dedicated teams focused on quickly solving problems and thoroughly addressing all technical aspects.
- Successful leadership starts with hiring passionate and adaptable people who are eager to get hands-on with every project. The best results come from teams that are dynamic, problem-solving learners who understand projects deeply and tackle challenges in real-time.
- Collaboration is essential for the success of large projects. Teams that work together solve problems more efficiently, producing better results because every member contributes to finding the best solution.
- Complex projects like SoFi Stadium come with major challenges, including tight deadlines and technical hurdles like seismic design and deep excavations. These obstacles are overcome through commitment, teamwork, and technical expertise to ensure the project is completed successfully.
- Independence gives firms the flexibility to be more agile, delivering faster and more personalized solutions to clients. This ability to adapt quickly is a huge advantage when managing large, complex projects.
- Engineers should seek out companies that work on a variety of challenging projects where they can get involved at every level. Avoiding repetitive tasks and building a team of passionate, dynamic learners leads to better problem-solving and greater project success.
More Details in This Episode…
About Michael Reader:
Michael Reader is the CEO and principal geotechnical engineer at Group Delta Consultants, where he has been instrumental in leading the firm to become a market leader in geotechnical engineering, particularly in California’s transportation design/build sector. With over 26 years of experience, Michael has overseen numerous high-profile projects, including the LAX Automated People Mover, RAMS Stadium at Hollywood Park, and major infrastructure developments like the 405 Freeway and the Gerald Desmond Bridge.
Michael’s expertise extends across a diverse range of geotechnical projects, including educational facilities, hospitals, mid-rise structures, and seismic analyses. His leadership has helped position Group Delta as one of the fastest-growing geo-environmental firms in the Western U.S.
Michael holds an MS in civil/geotechnical engineering from California State University, Long Beach, and a BS in geological engineering from the University of Arizona.
About the Host: Jared M. Green, PE, BC.GE, F.ASCE
Jared, originally from southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduated from Syracuse University’s College of Engineering in 2001 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He later went on to attain his M.S. in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Focus) from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Campaign, in 2002. In 2003, he began working in the New York City office of Langan. He has since become a Principal / Vice President and is one of the owners of this international land development engineering consulting firm. After 15 years at Langan, Jared moved to the Philadelphia office and is one of the geotechnical practice leaders in that office.
Jared is a consultant and team leader who also enjoys mentoring young engineers and first-generation college students. He has been instrumental in increasing the number of pre-college students who are interested in STEAM majors and fields. He strives to make complex engineering topics relatable and understandable to people new to the field and to people who are completely unfamiliar with engineering. Jared and his family currently reside in Flemington, New Jersey. He and his wife have three energetic, inquisitive, and awesome children. You can connect with Jared here.
Books Mentioned in This Episode:
Blitzscaling
Sources/References:
Group Delta Consultants
Terracon
SoFi Stadium
Gerald Desmond Bridge
LAX Automated People Mover
LA Metro
Shannon & Wilson
Connect with Michael Reader, on LinkedIn
This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI
PPI has helped engineers achieve their licensing goals since 1975. Passing the FE and PE exams can open doors to career advancement and new opportunities. Check out PPI’s wide range of prep options, including Live Online courses, OnDemand courses, and digital study tools to help prepare you to pass your licensing exam here.
Please leave your comments or questions in the section below on how to overcome engineering challenges in billion-dollar projects.
