In this episode, I talk with Jake Kennington, P.E., SE, senior engineer at Reaveley Engineers and the owner and coach at Human Engineer Coach, about how principles like stability and resilience can transform both your career and life. Discover why “engineering yourself first” is the ultimate blueprint for success!
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Jake:
- Why do you think engineers often prioritize professional work over personal growth, and what risks come with that?
- How did “engineering yourself first” become a key focus for you, and how does it relate to building a strong and resilient career, similar to principles in structural engineering?
- How do you connect the structural engineering concept of “strong column, weak beam” to personal development?
- Can you explain the idea of “owning the morning” and how starting the day with personal time can positively impact your overall day?
- Why do you encourage engineers to journal, and how does writing help improve self-awareness?
- How do you motivate engineers to explore creative outlets outside of work, and is this something you incorporate into your coaching?
- How does self-discipline play a role in building a strong personal foundation, and how can engineers develop this skill?
- What final piece of advice would you give to structural engineers or young professionals aiming to build a strong foundation for long-term success in their careers?
Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Why Engineering Yourself First Is the Key to Achieving Success:
- Engineers often prioritize urgent tasks because they are tangible and measurable, but this approach may lead to neglecting personal growth and long-term well-being. By distinguishing between urgency and importance, they can create a more balanced and rewarding approach to both work and life, reducing burnout and building resilience.
- Personal development alongside professional growth allows engineers to achieve balance and avoid burnout. Just as structural engineering relies on strong foundational elements, personal resilience is built through self-discipline, creativity, and self-awareness, which support long-term career and life success.
- In structural engineering, stability depends on strong foundational elements, and the same principle applies to life. Strengthening personal foundations with self-discipline, creativity, and self-awareness enables individuals to sustain their careers, families, and overall well-being, ensuring a stable and resilient future.
- Starting the day with intentional personal time ensures that essential priorities, such as mental, emotional, and physical health, receive attention before daily demands take over. This practice sets a positive tone, eliminates distractions, and establishes a strong foundation for a productive and balanced day.
- Journaling captures meaningful moments and refines thoughts, making them easier to reflect on and preserve. This simple yet effective practice organizes the mind, builds mindfulness, and ensures experiences are remembered rather than forgotten over time.
- Exploring creative projects outside of work equips individuals with new skills and perspectives that enhance their personal and professional lives. By stepping beyond the routine, engineers strengthen adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and connections, contributing to long-term success.
- Self-discipline forms the foundation of integrity, requiring individuals to honor commitments made to themselves. Embracing the effort needed to achieve goals allows engineers to develop habits that drive long-term success and fulfillment.
- Building a strong foundation becomes more achievable with the guidance of a mentor who is slightly ahead in their journey. Learning from their experiences and insights enables young professionals to navigate challenges effectively and develop the skills necessary for growth.
More Details in This Episode…
About Jake Kennington, P.E., SE
Jake Kennington is a licensed structural engineer with a deep understanding of both the technical and personal challenges engineers face. Originally from California’s Central Valley, Jake earned his engineering degree from Fresno State and spent over a decade building his career in his hometown. But like many in technical professions, he found his work consuming his life.
In the last three years, Jake has transformed his approach, dedicating himself to helping engineers and other professionals balance their drive for success with a life filled with purpose and excitement. He empowers them to slow down, reconnect, and embrace each day with renewed energy — showing that career achievement and personal well-being can go hand in hand.
Jake also shares his insights through a weekly newsletter focused on personal growth for engineers. His newsletter and coaching services can be found at humanengineercoach.com. Additionally, he’s the proud author of a children’s book, with more literary projects on the horizon.
About the Co-host:
Rachel Holland, P.E.
Rachel is an experienced R&D engineer, developing and patenting multiple new structural connectors. She also offers her expertise to both the end user and specifiers as a branch engineering supervisor. She represents Simpson Strong-Tie as a deck expert, educating others how to properly build code-compliant decks. Before her career working for a manufacturing company, she spent many years working for engineering consulting companies. She earned her Architectural Engineering undergrad degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from California State University, Monterey Bay. Rachel is a licensed P.E. in California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
Books Mentioned in this Episode:
The Difficult Life of a Little Brown Hound
Sources/References:
Reaveley Engineers
Fresno State
SEAU
SEAOC
Human Engineer Coach
Connect with Jake Kennington, P.E., SE, on LinkedIn
This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI:
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Please leave your comments or questions in the section below on why engineering yourself first is the key to achieving success!
