Word On The Street

In this episode of the Word on the Street Podcast, Mick Morrissey and Mark Goodale are joined by Katharine Van Leer, Senior Consultant at Morrissey Goodale, as she makes her debut as the newest member of the podcast team. Together, they discuss the forces shaping the AE industry today—from M&A activity and valuation trends to the growing influence of AI and private equity. The conversation explores market uncertainty, leadership transition, and why CEO‑only forums and peer connections are more important than ever as firms navigate rapid change.

The podcast version of real-time market and industry intelligence from Morrissey Goodale firm leaders.

Mark and Mick welcome Jon Kramer, CEO of OHM Advisors. The discussion covers a range of topics including OHM's growth trajectory, Kramer's personal journey from intern to CEO, the importance of culture, innovation, and AI in the architecture, engineering, and planning field. Kramer highlights OHM's recent acquisitions, strategies for managing hybrid work environments, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. The episode concludes with insights into Kramer's leadership philosophy and his vision for OHM Advisors' future.   Topics 01:04 Guest Introduction: Jon Kramer, CEO of OHM Advisors 02:35 Jon's Early Career and Intern Program 05:23 OHM's Growth and Culture 09:22 Challenges and Strategies in AE Industry 16:21 Acquisitions and Strategic Growth 21:59 Engineering vs. Architecture: A Complex Integration 22:13 Challenges of Leading a Multi-Disciplinary Firm 23:25 Personal Journey: From Engineer to CEO 24:12 Balancing Diverse Teams and Cultures 24:39 Learning from Peers and External Advisors 26:37 Daily Operations and Team Dynamics 29:15 Strategic Growth and Future Plans 30:58 Artificial Intelligence and Innovation 40:21 Leadership Advice and Reflections 43:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jim Stamatis, CEO of True Environmental Mark and Mick welcome Jim Stamatis, CEO of True Environmental. Jim shares insights from his varied career, including his professional soccer background, his leadership roles at Louis Berger, and the launch of True Environmental. He emphasizes the importance of team dynamics, culture, and adaptability in business, drawing parallels from his sports experience. Jim also discusses the rapid growth of True Environmental, the significance of trust and communication in successful integrations, and the evolving impact of technology and private equity in the environmental industry. Throughout the conversation, Jim advocates for a culture of resilience, transparency, and continuous improvement, highlighting the critical role of leadership in navigating industry challenges and opportunities.   Topics 00:48 Welcome to Morrissey Goodell's Podcast 01:45 Introducing Jim Stamatis and His Accomplishments 02:46 Jim's Soccer Career Highlights 05:41 Transition from Soccer to Professional Career 08:22 Building True Environmental 09:44 Lessons from Leading Louis Berger 16:40 Importance of Teamwork and Trust 21:40 Vision and Philosophy Behind True Environmental 24:14 The Story Behind True Environmental 25:03 Key Ingredients for Successful Integration 27:20 Maintaining Entrepreneurial Spirit 28:53 Successful Acquisition of Sundance Consulting 31:48 The Role of Private Equity in the Industry 32:50 Using AI in Daily Work 34:13 Growing the Next Generation of Leaders 36:29 Executing Strategic Plans 38:31 Environmental and Infrastructure Trends 44:08 Reflections on the Industry and Career 48:44 Word to the Wise: Success and Culture

Mark and Mick interview Matt Bissett, the president of Atwell, discussing his leadership experiences and strategies for navigating change. Bissett shares insights on the firm's growth from a regional to a national player, addressing challenges such as market diversification, embracing technology, and maintaining a unified company culture amidst rapid expansion. With in-depth discussions on acquisitions, employee development programs like Top Gun, and the impact of financial crises like the 2008 downturn, this episode offers a comprehensive look at leading an engineering and consulting firm through dynamic industry landscapes.   Topics 01:36 Introducing the Special Guest: Matt Bissett 03:24 Matt Bissett's Leadership Journey at Atwell 05:19 Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change 11:33 The Impact of Technology and AI on the Industry 13:54 Matt Bissett: The Renaissance Man 14:56 The Art of Acquisitions and Integrations 22:16 Maintaining Positive Energy and Client Engagement 24:12 Maximizing Influence and Leadership 24:33 Top Gun Program and Rodney Williams 28:38 Challenges and Culture at Atwell 32:12 Virtual Reality and Connectivity 39:36 Diversification and Resilience 43:59 Lessons from Sports and Decision Making

Mark and Mick speak with Gayle Packer, CEO and President of Terracon, a leading nationwide employee-owned engineering consulting firm. Gayle shares insights on Terracon's remarkable story of growth and innovation, reflecting on pivotal leadership moments, such as navigating a company-wide crisis and strategically implementing technological advancements. The discussion covers the importance of aligning culture and business plans, promoting employee experience, and the significance of feedback and accountability in driving excellence. Gayle also talks about her personal career journey, strategic planning at Terracon, and future aspirations for the firm. The episode provides key lessons on leadership, risk-taking, and purposeful growth in the engineering consulting industry.   Topics 00:58 Introducing the Guest: Gayle Packer 02:03 Gayle's Recent Travels 05:03 Gayle's Leadership Journey at Terracon 07:38 Terracon's Values and Safety Culture 09:40 Navigating Challenges: Fatality and COVID-19 16:48 The Role of Technology and Innovation 25:00 The Importance of Growth and Employee Experience 27:53 The Rebranding Effort at Terracon 29:23 Career Trajectories and Risks 32:12 Partnerships and Leadership at Terracon 35:34 Aligning a Large Organization 43:11 Technological Innovations at Terracon 46:42 Reflections and Future Plans 51:36 Words of Wisdom

Mark and Mick engage in a compelling conversation with Greg Kelly, CEO of STV, one of North America's leading architecture, engineering, and consulting firms. The discussion covers a range of topics, including leadership styles, strategic market decisions, client management, and the intricacies of firm acquisitions. Greg shares his perspectives on the importance of humility, the evolving nature of leadership, and the value of emotional intelligence in team building. The episode also delves into the impact of hybrid work models on leadership development and innovation in the AE industry. Finally, Greg reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave and offers valuable advice for emerging leaders.   More on Greg at https://stvinc.com/person/greg-kelly/   Topics 01:39 Guest Introduction: Greg Kelly 03:29 Discussing Leadership and Strategy 10:13 Market Analysis and Decision Making 22:08 Client Relationships and Expectations 31:20 Leadership Development in a Hybrid Work Environment 37:06 Innovation and AI in the Industry 38:57 Greg Kelly's Legacy and Leadership Lessons 42:37 Conclusion and Farewell

Mark and Mick sit down with Megan Miller, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Deltek, to break down the most compelling findings from the 46th Annual Deltek Clarity Report—featuring insights from nearly 700 AE firms across the US and Canada.   From rising net revenue per employee to shifting industry mindsets, Megan unpacks how the most successful firms are using data, tech, and strategic planning to drive growth. You'll hear what separates firms that thrive from those that fall behind—plus key benchmarks and future-facing trends heading into 2025.   Topics Include: - Industry performance and financial benchmarks - AE firms’ adoption of tech and automation - Strategic use of data for growth - Project management best practices - The real cost of lagging behind in innovation - What to expect at the 2025 M&A Symposium in Vegas   Don’t miss this if you're in leadership, strategy, or biz dev in AE.   Topics 01:05 Guest Introduction: Megan Miller 01:55 Overview of the 46th Annual Deltek Clarity Report 02:27 Key Insights from the Clarity Report 06:34 Industry Sentiment and Trends 10:16 Financial Performance Highlights 16:00 Strategic Use of Data for Growth 20:23 Shifts in Industry Mindset 22:13 Strategic Pursuits in AE Firms 23:25 Integrating New Technologies 25:00 Misconceptions and Costs of Technology 26:18 Genuine Innovation vs. Marketing Hype 30:01 Net Revenue Per Employee Insights 34:33 Industry Outlook and Client Engagement 40:54 Transforming Operations with Deltek Solutions 42:29 Final Thoughts and Wise Words   📩 Don’t miss an episode — subscribe here: https://www.morrisseygoodale.com/word-on-the-street-podcast

Mark and Mick chat with Andra Kidd, CEO of Spheros Environmental. The discussion spans Andra's extensive career, the challenges and strategies of leading a fast-growing environmental firm, and the importance of innovation and digital strategies in the industry. Andra also shares insights on balancing personal wellness and professional responsibilities, the complexities of integrating acquisitions, and fostering a science-forward and employee-centric culture. The conversation highlights the significance of scrutinizing market conditions, strategic thinking, and the power of accountability in leadership.   Topics 01:50 Insights from Alaska Experience 07:27 Leadership and Accountability 09:56 Challenges and Strategies in Leadership 13:26 Balancing Personal Interests and Professional Life 15:40 Building Effective Leadership Teams 18:02 Differentiating in the Environmental Consulting Market 18:37 Vision and Mission of Spheros 19:28 Recruitment and Acquisitions Strategy 19:37 University Connections and Acquisitions 20:53 Assessing Company Culture 21:57 Digital Strategies and Innovation 25:22 CEO's Role in Acquisitions 26:53 Travel and Personal Organization 28:59 Partnership with Union Park 29:55 Market Opportunities and Strategic Services 35:17 Integration and Collaboration 36:37 Balancing Business and Science 39:12 Final Thoughts and Advice

Topics 01:16 Introducing the Guest: Neil Churman 01:27 Neil's Background and Career Journey 04:09 Leadership Insights and Building Trust 15:11 Creating a Positive Work Environment 24:58 Navigating Global Time Zones 25:15 Building a Culture of Connectivity 25:40 Strategic Initiatives and Collaboration 25:57 Global Delivery and Efficiency 26:09 Creating Connection Points 26:56 Understanding Cricket and Rugby 27:43 Focus on Collaboration and Collegiality 29:06 Challenges of Integrating Diverse Teams 32:37 The Role of AI in the Industry 35:12 Adapting to Market Trends 37:36 Global Expansion and Acquisitions 44:30 Characteristics of the Right Firm 47:36 Completing the Cycle of Cash Flow 50:21 Words to the Wise: Thriving Firms 51:32 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of the Word on the Street podcast, hosts Mark Goodell and Mick Morrissey welcome Mike Munn, President and CEO of McAdams, to discuss the management of change in the architecture and engineering industry. Mike shares his insights into McAdams' growth strategy, balancing organic and acquisitive growth, and the significance of branding and mentorship. He also highlights the challenges and strategies of integrating new acquisitions and maintaining a strong company culture. Additionally, the conversation delves into Mike's personal experiences, including his upbringing on a farm, community involvement, and passion for fast cars and powerboating. The episode concludes with valuable advice on the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people.   Topics   00:00 Architects and Change: A Paradox 00:40 Welcome to the Podcast 00:55 Spring is Coming 01:39 Introducing Mike Munn 03:52 Change Management in Architecture 07:21 Navigating the Great Recession 13:32 Balancing Growth Strategies 19:10 Mentorship and Succession Planning 23:28 The Role of Barbecue in Onboarding 24:27 Mentoring and Leadership Development 25:36 Integration and Acquisitions 29:35 Business Development and Community Involvement 32:22 Personal Stories and Work Ethic 35:23 Branding and Market Expansion 45:56 Advice and Personal Interests

The guest is Ernesto Aguilar, President and CEO of Ardurra, highlighting his journey from a 200-employee firm to an 1800-strong workforce. Ernesto discusses the company's growth strategies, emphasizing opportunities seized and organic growth fueled by passionate employees. He shares insights on transitioning from structural engineering to leadership, the importance of company culture, the challenges of mergers and acquisitions, and the evolving work-life balance in today's workforce. Ernesto also touches on the significance of a supportive network and adaptable leadership as essential elements for sustained growth.   Topics   00:00 Introduction and Company Growth 01:43 Introducing Ernesto Aguilar 02:02 Ernesto's Background and Career Journey 08:38 Naming the Company Ardurra 12:29 Growth Strategy and Employee Involvement 18:35 Spotting the Tells: Identifying Genuine Intentions 19:24 Career Milestones: From Powell to PBSNJ 20:52 Balancing Work and Life: Personal Insights 23:23 Generational Shifts in Work-Life Balance 26:48 Scaling Up: From 200 to 1,500 Employees 31:03 Navigating Growth and Risk Management 34:04 The Importance of Networking and Delegation 37:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In the inaugural episode of the Word on the Street podcast, hosts Mark Goodale and Mick Morrissey welcome Mike Carragher, the President and CEO of VHB. The discussion explores Mike's journey with strategic planning, highlighting its importance in sustaining growth and guiding the company's vision. Mike shares his experiences and insights on the challenges and successes of implementing strategic plans, the significance of effective communication, and the impact of leadership in motivating teams. The conversation also touches upon Mike's involvement with the ACEC Research Institute and his vision for the future of the industry. Throughout, Mike emphasizes the balance between focusing on people and performance, and the role of storytelling in leadership.   Topics 01:12 Welcoming the Guest: Mike Carragher 02:10 Strategic Planning Insights 04:42 Lessons from Experience 08:36 Industry Challenges and Future Vision 12:44 Balancing People and Performance 19:47 Communicating Vision and Culture 29:03 Final Thoughts and Advice 35:31 Conclusion and Farewell

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