Engineering Influence from ACEC

Welcome to the latest episode of Engineering Influence, a podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we are joined by Jon Gray, Principal at Rockport Analytics, to discuss the recently published economic forecast for the engineering industry, specifically tailored for 2024. John provides insightful analysis into the macroeconomic impact of the engineering design services industry on the U.S. economy, presenting a comprehensive overview of growth, employment trends, and wage projections. With data collected over five years, this report offers valuable trend indicators that are shaping the industry’s present and future. The discussion also delves into the effects of federal spending, notably from acts like the IIJA and the Inflation Reduction Act, which continue to drive notable growth in infrastructure and other key sectors. Additionally, John and Jeff examine the geographic shifts in industry growth, highlighting states like North Carolina and Florida, and explore the market sectors that are thriving versus those facing challenges. Addressing the workforce and skills gap, Jon explains how labor shortages are impacting project delivery and industry profitability. As firms navigate these challenges, strategic insights provided in this episode are indispensable for industry leaders and policymakers alike. Don’t miss this engaging episode that combines economic theory with real-world application, guiding the engineering sector through uncertain times towards a promising future.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, where we delve into the newly released ACEC Research Institute 2024 Quarter 4 Engineering Business Sentiment Survey. This quarterly survey offers a comprehensive look at current and future business conditions within the engineering industry by interviewing and surveying CEOs across the sector. In this episode, host Jeff is joined by Joe Bates, the researcher behind the survey, as they explore the positive sentiments surrounding the U.S. economy, the industry, and firm finances. Despite a slight moderation, the overall sentiment remains strong, buoyed by the bipartisan infrastructure law and ongoing projects reaching the construction phase. A major challenge discussed is the workforce shortage, with many firms turning down profitable work due to staffing issues. Joe and Jeff address the significant impact of this shortage and economic and political uncertainties on the industry's future outlook. The episode also highlights sectoral winners and losers, with government-supported areas like infrastructure and manufacturing thriving, while commercial real estate struggles. The booming data center market is also discussed, showcasing its continuous growth. Listeners are encouraged to explore the full report for deeper insights and historical trends and stay tuned for upcoming analyses on economic indicators and future forecasts. The episode concludes with a nod to the ongoing work of the ACEC Research Institute in providing valuable data and insights for the engineering community.

In this episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, we delve into the transformative journey of HDR, an employee-owned engineering firm. From its founding in 1917, HDR has evolved through various stages of ownership, culminating in a buyback in 1996 that established its current employee-owned model. Join host Jeff as he engages with a panel of esteemed guests, including Eric Keene, former CEO and current chair of HDR, Tom Sanders, senior vice president, and Aaron Slayton, Transportation Program Management Director and ESOP board member. Together, they explore the impact of employee ownership on HDR's culture, growth, and operational success. The discussion highlights the unique benefits of HDR's ESOP structure, fostering a culture of connection, collaboration, and resilience. Discover how this ownership model has influenced HDR's recruitment and retention strategies, enhanced financial literacy among employees, and guided the firm's growth and acquisition decisions. Tune in to learn how HDR's commitment to broad-based employee ownership has created a thriving environment for innovation and excellence in the engineering industry.

Join us on the Engineering and Public Works Roadshow as we explore the innovative Mountain to Sea Trail Connector project in Oak Ridge, North Carolina. This episode, recorded at the inaugural Great Trail State Conference in Winston-Salem, highlights the collaborative efforts of local engineers and city planners to connect two key natural trails, enhancing public safety and accessibility. Our guests, Mike Slusher from Davis Martin Powell and Bill Bruce from the City of Oak Ridge, share insights into the project's inception and execution. They discuss the challenges of designing a trail that complements the rural landscape while maintaining community harmony and addressing public concerns. Discover how this connector contributes to the larger 1,200-mile Mountain to Sea Trail, fostering tourism, economic growth, and community engagement. This episode showcases the transformative impact of thoughtful engineering and public investment in enhancing quality of life and community identity.

In this episode of Engineering Influenced by the American Council of Engineering Companies, Shreya, the Marketing & Communications Coordinator at ACEC, welcomes Bret Tushaus, VP of Product Management from Deltek. Together, they explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the engineering industry and discuss how Deltek is leveraging AI to enhance project management and decision-making. Bret delves into the importance of using AI to turn rich project data into actionable insights, emphasizing the significance of data privacy and security. He shares how Deltek's solutions are designed to empower project managers with the tools they need to drive successful project outcomes. As the conversation progresses, Bret offers advice on how firms can capitalize on existing tools and technologies, making digital transformation an accessible journey rather than an overwhelming challenge. He also envisions the future of AI with the rise of "agents" that can automate tasks and workflows, further enhancing efficiency and productivity. Listeners are encouraged to explore Deltek's offerings and resources, including their website, blog, and town halls, to stay informed about the latest advancements in AI-driven solutions.

In this inspiring episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast, we sit down with James Lawrence, renowned endurance athlete and our keynote speaker at the 2024 annual fall conference in New Orleans. Sponsored by Bentley, this episode explores the incredible journey of James, the world record holder for completing 101 consecutive Ironman races, and the profound lessons he learned along the way. James shares his insights on pushing boundaries, redefining mental toughness, and the importance of embracing challenges in life. Through vivid anecdotes, he discusses how confronting the "bully" inside our heads can transform our approach to life's obstacles, turning them into opportunities for growth. Drawing from personal experiences, James emphasizes the power of resilience and the impact of showing up daily to live a life with no regrets. He also talks about the invaluable lessons his family learned from his journey and how these experiences have shaped them into confident individuals ready to face the world. Tune in to discover how small, consistent changes can lead to significant transformations, both personally and professionally, and learn about James's upcoming book, "Iron Hope," set to inspire even more people to chase their dreams.

In this episode of the Engineering Influence podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies, host Shreya, the Marketing & Communications Coordinator, is joined by Adam Loewentheil, co-founder and CEO of Aldoa. Together, they delve into the transformative power of technology in the engineering and consulting industries, emphasizing the evolution over the past 20 years and the promising direction it's headed towards. Adam sheds light on the challenges faced by engineering firms in adapting to new technological advancements, highlighting the industry's reliance on outdated tools like Microsoft Word and Excel. He introduces Aldoa's innovative, verticalized SaaS solution, specifically designed to address these challenges, streamline workflows, and incorporate AI to enhance efficiency without compromising the scientific expertise of professionals. The discussion extends to the benefits of vertical SaaS solutions, which are purpose-built for specific industries, offering tailored functionalities and cost savings. Adam shares insights into Aldoa's key offerings, including project management, resource management, and financial management tools, which have already attracted over 100 U.S. customers this year. For those interested in learning more about Aldoa's solutions and how they can be customized for their business, Adam invites listeners to visit their website or reach out via email. Tune in to discover how Aldoa is revolutionizing the engineering and consulting landscape.   Visit Aldoa's website: www.aldoa.com

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, recorded live at the 2024 Annual Fall Conference and sponsored by Bentley Systems. In this episode, we delve into the transformative impact of Bentley's new AI-powered software suite, OpenSite+, on the civil engineering industry. Join our conversation with Francois Valois, VP of Civil Engineering, and David Settlemeyer, Senior Product Manager at Bentley, as they discuss how OpenSite+ is revolutionizing site design and land development. This groundbreaking software promises to equip engineers to deliver high-quality projects up to 10 times faster than traditional methods by leveraging AI-driven tools. Discover how OpenSite+ stands out with its unique features, including a co-pilot experience that enhances productivity, automates drawing creation, and optimizes project workflows. Learn about the ethical considerations behind Bentley's data policy and the importance of data security for engineering firms. Explore the software's interoperability with other Bentley products and third-party applications, ensuring seamless integration and data accuracy throughout the project lifecycle. Find out more about how OpenSite+ is setting a new standard in civil engineering and how firms can participate in its early access program. Tune in to understand how AI is reshaping the engineering landscape, allowing professionals to focus on what they do best—innovative design and exceptional client delivery.

Join us for an insightful episode of Engineering Influence, recorded live from the American Council of Engineering Companies' 2024 fall conference in New Orleans. This episode, sponsored by Bentley, features a conversation with Don Foster, Chief Customer Officer at Panzura. Discover how Panzura is revolutionizing data management by providing resilient solutions that help organizations handle unstructured data amidst growing cyber threats and evolving work environments. Don shares Panzura's approach to creating a robust infrastructure that ensures data accessibility and security, whether on-premises, cloud-based, or hybrid. Explore the role of AI in enhancing data processes and the steps Panzura is taking to integrate machine learning for threat detection and workflow optimization. Learn how Panzura's innovative tools, such as CloudFS and Panzura Symphony, are empowering engineers to collaborate in real-time and complete projects more efficiently. If you're interested in learning more about Panzura's offerings, visit their website for blogs, white papers, and upcoming webinars. Tune in to this episode to understand how Panzura is helping businesses thrive in the digital age.

Join us live from the fall conference in New Orleans as we dive into the impactful journey of the ACE Mentor Program with special guests Stephanie Davi McNeely, Director of Development and Strategic Partnerships, and Art Alzamora from ACE New York. Discover how this initiative, founded in 1994, has shaped the future of over 100,000 students, encouraging diversity and inclusion in engineering, architecture, and construction industries. Learn about the program's core group mentoring model, its impressive scholarship achievements, and how it supports first-generation college students. Our guests share inspiring success stories, highlight key initiatives focused on alumni programming, and discuss the importance of mentorship in shaping future leaders. Explore ways to get involved with ACE Mentor and hear about the collaborative efforts with the newly formed Engineering Workforce Consortium. This episode is a testament to the power of mentorship in bridging gaps and building a skilled, diverse workforce for tomorrow.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, recorded live at the 2024 Fall Conference. This special episode celebrates the achievements of our scholarship winners, highlighting the success of the expanded scholarship program by the ACEC Research Institute. Join us as we chat with Ella Smith, a civil engineering student from Lawrence Technological University in Michigan. Ella shares her journey into the world of engineering, sparked by her love for math and science from an early age. She discusses her interest in geotechnical engineering, influenced by her exposure to public sector infrastructure and urban planning through her mother's career as a city planner. Ella also talks about the exciting opportunities and technological advancements in the field of engineering today. As she prepares for graduation in May 2025, she looks forward to entering the workforce and finding a firm with a great workplace environment. Tune in to hear more about Ella's aspirations and insights into the evolving engineering landscape.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we delve into the future of transportation, focusing on mass transit, with expert insights from Stuart Lerner, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Stantec North America. With over 30 years of experience in transportation infrastructure and transit-oriented projects, Stuart shares his personal and professional journey in the world of mass transit. He discusses the challenges commuters face and the legendary war stories that have become part of urban folklore. Stuart emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to improve commuting experiences and reduce traffic congestion. As the discussion unfolds, Stuart highlights the impact of the pandemic and climate change on transportation, particularly in urban centers like New York City. He explores the controversial concept of congestion pricing and its potential to fund mass transit improvements. Stuart also addresses the financial sustainability of mass transit systems and the need for alternative approaches to meet changing commuter demands. Join us as we explore the possibilities of a hybrid transportation model, incorporating technologies like autonomous vehicles and bus rapid transit. Stuart advocates for embracing new technology to create flexible and reliable mass transit systems that adapt to post-pandemic realities and environmental challenges. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the future of transportation and the role of technology in shaping a more sustainable and efficient commuting experience.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast from ACEC, broadcasting from our Fall Conference 2024, proudly sponsored by Bentley. In this episode, we spotlight the City of San Diego, the distinguished winners of the Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) award. Join us as we delve into a conversation with Claudia Barca, Director of Purchasing and Contracting, and Elif Chetting, Acting Director with Engineering Capital Projects, as they share insights on San Diego's exemplary QBS implementation. Discover how San Diego has set a national benchmark by prioritizing qualifications over price in architectural and engineering contracts. Learn about the meticulous process that ensures the selection of top-tier professionals, fostering successful project outcomes that benefit both the city and its citizens. Claudia and Elif provide an in-depth look at the criteria considered during the selection process, emphasizing technical expertise, team capabilities, and an understanding of local needs. Explore the benefits of QBS, from fostering industry partnerships to enhancing community projects, and understand the passion driving public service delivery in San Diego. The episode also highlights opportunities for small local businesses to collaborate on significant projects, contributing to community development and showcasing their capabilities. Tune in to hear how San Diego's commitment to quality-based selection continues to make a positive impact on the city's infrastructure and its residents. Celebrate the success stories and the rewarding experience of contributing to the community's growth and well-being.

Join us on the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies as we delve into the transformative power of AI at the 2024 Fall Conference in New Orleans. Sponsored by Bentley, this episode features an enlightening discussion with Didem Un Ates, a pioneer in AI development with a rich history at companies like OpenAI, Microsoft, and now Lotus AI. Discover the rapid evolution of AI technologies and their impact on engineering and beyond. Didem shares insights into the journey of AI, from its inception to its current state, and the pivotal role of ChatGPT in making AI accessible at a consumer level. Learn how engineering firms can harness AI to create efficiencies, and explore the balance between human expertise and AI agents in the workplace. We also tackle the critical issue of responsible AI, discussing its environmental impacts and the opportunities for innovation within the engineering industry to mitigate these effects. Didem offers a hopeful perspective on the future of work, emphasizing the enduring value of human creativity and wisdom in an AI-driven world. Tune in to understand how AI is reshaping the engineering landscape and why now is the time to embrace this technology for a brighter, more efficient future.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast, recorded live at the ACEC 2024 Fall Conference, proudly sponsored by Bentley. In this captivating episode, we are honored to host Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi, a keynote speaker whose journey from the deep South to becoming a renowned physicist is truly inspirational. Dr. Oluseyi shares his remarkable life story, growing up in challenging environments with limited academic role models, yet fueled by a passion for reading instilled by his mother. Despite early struggles, including bouts of homelessness, he persevered through adversity, eventually finding his calling in physics. Join us as Dr. Oluseyi delves into the transformative power of education, the importance of mentorship, and his dedication to breaking barriers for aspiring scientists from underrepresented backgrounds. Discover his insights on the future of physics, recent experimental breakthroughs, and his mission to enhance STEM education worldwide. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that explores the intersection of intelligence, opportunity, and the pursuit of knowledge. Plus, learn about Dr. Oluseyi's book, "A Quantum Life: My Unlikely Journey from the Street to the Stars," and his engaging podcast with Roddenberry, "Does It Fly." Tune in for an episode filled with hope, perseverance, and a vision for a brighter future in science and engineering.

In this episode of the Engineering Influence podcast, recorded live from the ACEC Fall Conference in New Orleans, host [Host Name] is joined by Darren Black, the National Practice Leader at Risk Strategies. Together, they delve into the innovative approach of Progressive Design Build and its potential impact on the engineering industry. Darren explains how this relatively new project delivery method addresses the challenges faced in large-scale civil infrastructure projects. By ensuring that guaranteed maximum prices are set at a more advanced stage of design completion, Progressive Design Build aims to mitigate risks, reduce uncertainties, and enhance project outcomes. The episode features insights into an upcoming panel discussion that will explore this topic further, with contributions from industry experts like David Hadam, Donna Hunt, and representatives from Kiewit and Gresham Smith. Darren also touches on the implications for professional liability and the insurance market, providing a comprehensive overview of how this approach could shape the future of engineering projects.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, recorded live at the 2024 Fall Conference in New Orleans. As the general election approaches, just 15 days away, the political landscape remains unpredictable. In this episode, we are joined by two former members of Congress, Representative Cheri Bustos of Illinois and John Katko of New York, who share their expert insights on the potential outcomes of the election and its implications for the engineering industry. Our guests discuss the dynamics in the Senate and House, speculating on which party might take control and how divided leadership could influence legislative processes. They explore the impact of recent legislation such as the CHIPS Act and Infrastructure Bill, emphasizing the importance of bipartisan cooperation in advancing America's infrastructure goals. Tune in for a compelling conversation that highlights the challenges and opportunities facing the engineering sector amidst a rapidly changing political environment. As we brace for the election results, this episode offers valuable perspectives on what the future might hold for infrastructure and policy in the United States.

In this episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast, hosted by Diana O'Lare, Director of Market Intelligence for ACEC, we dive deep into the future of data centers and telecommunications with Nabeel Mahmood, CEO of Mahmood and co-creator of the Nomad Futurist Podcast. Mahmood shares his insights on the explosive growth of the data center market, driven by advancements in AI, big data, and connectivity, and discusses the mega trends shaping this rapidly evolving industry. Explore the challenges and innovations in data center development, including the impact of AI, regulatory hurdles, and the importance of efficiency and sustainability. Mahmoud highlights the significance of modular designs and renewable energy sources in reducing the carbon footprint of data centers. Join us as we also touch on the geographical hotspots for data center expansion, both in the U.S. and internationally, and discuss the critical role of digital transformation and change management in adapting to new technologies. Don’t miss the live market briefing on November 13th, focusing on the growing data center and telecommunications market. On November 13th 2024, ACEC will present a panel of experts in collaboration with the ACEC’s new Technology Committee on the data center and telecommunications markets. The data center market continues to grow, and incentives are provided to those who can locate land to build new centers and hyperscale data centers on. Also hear how the latest trend “AI” is impacting the market. Register Now: https://www.acec.org/event/market-briefings-intel-for-engineers-four-part-series/   The Nomad Futurist Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established to demystify the world of digital infrastructure, empower younger generations through exposure to the underlying technologies that power our digital world, and cultivate the next generation of industry leaders. Through the contributions of our supporters, we launch global programs in partnership with a range of education providers, NGOs and other nonprofit organizations committed to educating children in underserved communities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and creating opportunities for growth and new career paths. To learn more about the Nomad Futurist Foundation, please visit: http://nomadfuturist.org. 

Welcome to this episode of Engineering Influence, a podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this insightful discussion, we delve into the essence of technical excellence in the engineering and architecture sectors. Our host, Jeff, is joined by three experts from HDR: Pratibha Basrao, Applied Technology Director; Brad Johnson, Professional Services Director; and Doug Wignall, Architecture President. Pratibha Basrao shares her perspective on integrating advanced technologies to enhance design practices and outcomes. Brad Johnson expands the conversation to encompass professional excellence, emphasizing the importance of expertise and client service. Doug Wignall discusses the confluence of technical and design excellence in architecture, highlighting the importance of consistent and intelligent design processes. The episode also covers how HDR implements policies and procedures to maintain high standards, the role of technology in advancing these standards, and the company's commitment to continuous professional development. Tune in to learn how HDR fosters a culture of technical and professional excellence and how it positions itself as a trusted advisor to clients seeking innovative and complex design solutions.

Welcome to Engineering Influence, a podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we're joined by Jim Jacoby, CIO for Walter P. Moore and Director for Walter P. Moore Technology (WPM Technology), to discuss the suite of services WPM Technology offers to the AEC industry, focusing on cybersecurity, IT services, and more. Jim shares the origins of WPM Technology, which was founded in 2017 to leverage 25 years of IT experience at Walter P. Moore. We explore the critical importance of cybersecurity in the AEC industry, the challenges of digital transformation, and the impact of AI since the release of ChatGPT. Jim highlights the need for robust enterprise IT infrastructure to fully benefit from emergent technologies. We also dive into WPM Technology's five service verticals: managed IT services, consulting, cyber practice, software development, and AI integration. Jim discusses the importance of having a trusted partner for technology services and the value of adhering to nondisclosure agreements to maintain client trust. The conversation shifts to the transformative potential of AI in the AEC industry, the importance of a balanced approach to AI adoption, and the evolving skill sets required in modern engineering firms. Jim emphasizes the need for firms to embrace technology to stay competitive and how WPM Technology can support this transition. For more information, visit WPM Technology and learn how they can help your firm navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and AI in the AEC industry.