GBA Podcast

GBA Case History Series – Case History #41 - Don't Worry. We Don't Plan to Build There Summary The Member Firm performed a geotech study for a housing development and observed grading of the site during the construction of ten buildings. Six years after construction, the developer built two additional units but, because the Member Firm could not provide a representative to monitor the earthwork construction, they recommended another geotech firm. The second geotech firm monitored the placement of at least four feet of fill but without reviewing the Member Firm’s report. Four years after the second phase was completed, settlement problems arose and the developer sued the two geotechs, the civil engineer, and the earthwork constructor. After claims were dropped against the civil engineer and constructor, the geotechs settled with the developer for nearly $1,000,000. Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups. Lessons Learned: * Small Projects Can Create Big Risks * Geoprofessionals Who Act as Their Own Attorneys Have Fools as Their Clients * Operating without Professional Liability Insurance Is Foolhardy * Understand the Risks and Take Appropriate Preventive Measures: * If It Isn’t in Writing It Didn’t Happen * Use Caution When Serving Housing Developers * Assume Nothing * Provide Effective Guidance * Experience Pays * Don’t Trust What You Don’t Check Calls-to-action: Download Case History #41 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23619465) Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

GBA Case History Series – Case History #91 - Is There Value in Value Engineering? Beware of Panic Mode! Summary Member Firm conducts forensic evaluation of mold in a crawl space of a 180 unit nursing home and gives an “Engineering Opinion of Probable Cost” for the remediation of mold condition. When the owner investigated the construction records, it was found that the constructor- in- charge was at fault. Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups. Lessons Learned: * Follow-up Is a Professional Essential * Effective Communication Is Essential * Emphasize the Value of Construction-Materials Engineering and Testing (CoMET) Services * Cheap Engineering Can Be Expensive * Residential Projects Create Elevated Risks * Use Important Information about This Geotechnical-Engineering Report * Risk and the Go/No-Go Analysis * Understand Why You Should Not Issue Cost Estimates * Be Cautious When Design-Team Members Lack Experience Calls-to-action: Download Case History #91 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23839881) Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

Summary On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful! Links to resources referenced in this video: GBA’s 2027+ Strategic Plan (https://www.geoprofessional.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Strategic-Plan-2027_Final.pdf) 2025 Crystal Ball Workshop Business Brief (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=26371221) Early Professional Class Information (https://www.geoprofessional.org/seminars/) Early Professional Class Nomination Form (https://www.geoprofessional.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/EPC-Brochure-FINAL.pdf) 2024-25 GBA Award Winners (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/celebrating-excellence-gba-honors-2024-2025-award-recipients/) 2026 GBA Annual Conference (https://www.geoprofessional.org/event/annual-conference-april-23-25-2026-phoenix-az/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 1: Most Downloaded Document Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. The final episode of GBA's 12 Days of GBA series reveals 2025's most downloaded document: Crane Pad and Working Platform Design and Inspection. This isn't a technical design guide—it's comprehensive risk reduction guidance developed collaboratively by Geotech and CoMET committees. The document addresses preventing catastrophic crane and drilling rig failures by defining clear roles across all parties: geotechnical engineers, contractors, inspection firms, crane operators, and engineers of record. Key topics include thorough geotechnical evaluations, information sharing protocols, liability limitations, field observation templates, and reinspection requirements after weather events. Bottom line: reducing risks, clarifying responsibilities, and ensuring everyone goes home safe. Members-only download available. Links Download Crane Pad and Working Platform Design and Inspection (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=25959348) The 10 Most-Used Tools in the GBA Library (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/the-10-most-used-tools-in-the-gba-library/) Top 10 Most Downloaded Case Histories (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/top-10-most-downloaded-gba-case-histories-of-2025/) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 2: GBA Conferences Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. GBA's conferences are where the magic happens—Ryan and Tiffany share why these events are annual highlights. Spring Conference features the Business Snapshot for industry pulse-checks, legendary keynote speakers (Jim Abbott, Rob Samuels, John Acuff), and the invaluable round tables where 6-10 peers tackle real challenges with practical solutions across experience levels. Amazing locations include Phoenix (2026) and Vancouver BC (2027). The Stay and Play tradition caps each conference with memorable adventures—from St. Augustine boat tours to exploring new cities. Fall Leadership Summit focuses on committee work and shaping industry future. Bottom line: connections, content, inspiration, and fun. Links Register for 2026 Spring Conference in Phoenix, Arizona (https://www.geoprofessional.org/event/annual-conference-april-23-25-2026-phoenix-az/) Check out the GBA Event Calendar (https://www.geoprofessional.org/events-calendar/) Past GBA Events (https://www.geoprofessional.org/past-gba-events/) Join a GBA Committee (https://www.geoprofessional.org/join-a-committee/) Join the GBA Mailing List (https://www.geoprofessional.org/join-the-gba-mailing-list/) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 3: Business Briefs Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. GBA's Business Briefs deliver short, focused reads on timely topics—free for members. Ryan and Tiffany highlight three standouts: Crystal Ball Workshop 2025 (co-authored by Tiffany and Matt Van Rensler (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattvanrensler/)) covering AI guardrails, innovation culture, data hygiene, and pricing strategies; Utilizing Artificial Intelligence examining five insurance policies (cyber, general liability, professional liability, D&O, EPLI) and their AI-related coverage gaps; and Beyond gINT, a practical comparison table of geotechnical data management software that Ryan used to evaluate gINT replacements. These briefs provide actionable insights—from talking with your insurance broker to selecting the right technology. Stay updated through GBA's NewsLog, where new Business Briefs are always highlighted. Links Download GBA's Business Briefs (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/ListProducts.aspx?catid=988651) Crystal Ball Workshop 2025: Addressing Shrinking Workforce, Demand for Services (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=26371221) Utilizing Artificial Intelligence: Is Your Firm Adequately Insured? (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=26323425) Navigating New Horizons: Beyond gINT New Era in Geotechnical Data Management (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=24860502) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 4: GBA Podcast Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. Born from Emerging Leaders Class 4 during COVID, the GBA podcast has evolved into a powerful member benefit amplifier. While episodes are free to the public, GBA members unlock the real value—downloadable resources, best practices, contract clauses, and tools referenced in each episode. Ryan and Tiffany explore how the podcast supports different learning styles when paired with downloadable documents, making lunch-and-learns more effective. Featured series include Encore Performances with keynote speakers, GeoHeroes interviews, DEI discussions, and Case Histories. What's next for the podcast -- expanded video content and a geotechnical startup series. Links Visit GBApodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com/) December First Word with Executive Director, Joel Carson (https://www.gbapodcast.com/fw2512) GeoHeroes Interview with Matt Moler (https://www.gbapodcast.com/gh20) Management Best Practices: Professional Goal Setting (https://www.gbapodcast.com/mbp02) Leadership Lounge: How to Communicate Like a Hostage Negotiator, with Dan Oblinger (https://www.gbapodcast.com/ll01) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 5: Peer Review Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. GBA's Peer Review—named by Engineering News Record as one of 125 most innovative developments in 125 years—provides structured, confidential assessment of firm management practices. Tiffany deep-dives into the process, explaining the nine core components: business management, facilities/technical resources, HR, professional development, project management, financial management, marketing/sales, electronic resources, and image/culture. Firms choose onsite or virtual reviews, supported by staff and client surveys. Many insurers offset costs. Recommended cadence: every 4-5 years. The process includes oral feedback plus written reports—actionable improvement tools without grades or certification. Special thanks to David Sauls (https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidsaulspe/) and Bob Rabeler (https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-rabeler-5aa39215/). Linkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/davidsaulspe/) GBA Peer Review Webpage (https://www.geoprofessional.org/peer-review/) Should Your Firm Have a Focused Peer Review? (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23993559) GAI Consultant's Peer Review Experience (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23961114) The Benefits of a Peer Review by Jeff Jaros, President & CEO, NTH Consultants, Ltd. (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/benefits-of-a-gba-peer-review/) GBA Peer Reviews Improve Geoprofessional Firms (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/gba-peer-reviews-improve-geoprofessional-firms/) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 6: Taboo Words Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. GBA's Taboo Words document gets its own spotlight because words in your report matter as much as the work itself. Tiffany shares how this resource shaped her writing since 2006. The eight risky words aren't "evil," but opposing counsel can broaden your intent in claims. Ryan and Tiffany deep-dive on "inspect" versus "observe," explaining how legal interpretation can imply authority you never accepted. The takeaway isn't to never use these words, but to choose deliberately and define scope clearly. Simple exercise: highlight these words in a report, rewrite two sentences, instantly level up your team's risk management. Links Best Practices: Taboo Words (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23921823) Taboo Words * Certify * Defend * Determine * Inspect * Monitor * Represent * Safety * Supervise Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 7: Best Practices Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. GBA's best practices (or "monographs") are short, focused guides that save you from learning lessons the hard way. Tiffany highlights Change Order Management—emphasizing early communication to prevent client surprises—and Straight Talk About Profitability, which reveals that labor utilization matters more than just raising rates. Ryan counters with non-financial favorites: Avoiding Absolutes (one "always" can haunt you forever), Taboo Words, Mentoring Programs, Software Validation, and Documentation practices. Through a lightning round, they showcase resources covering Go/No-Go decisions, insurance basics, e-communication, depositions, and presentations. The takeaway: Pick one best practice your firm already pays for and actually use it this week. Small changes, big payoff. Links Find all of GBA's Best Practices Documents Here (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/ListProducts.aspx?catid=985846&ftr=) Change Order Management (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23917434) Straight Talk About Profitability (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23915166) Avoiding Absolutes (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23914200) Taboo Words (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23921823) Establishing a Mentoring Program in Your Firm (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23916363) Interviewing the Right Way (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23908719) Software Validation (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23915670) Email, Instant Messaging, Texting, and Other Forms of Electronic Communication (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23921571) Project-Records Retention (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23917497) Go/No-Go Checklist (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23921403) Professional Liability Insurance Basics (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23917686) Presentation Fundamentals (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23921928) Deposition Do's and Don'ts for Fact Witnesses (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23922012) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 8: Risk Management Resources Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. Risk management is GBA's "love language"—woven into nearly everything they publish. Ryan and Tiffany break down their "greatest hits playlist" across three tracks: contracts and legal risk (featuring the Contract Reference Guide and Third Party Reliance resources), reports and client education (including important information insert sheets and confirmation-dependent recommendations), and training with peer learning (like the "Avoiding Absolutes" best practice). Each track includes Monday-morning actionable takeaways—from standardizing contract language to attaching client education documents to building repeatable communication habits. These resources aren't just defensive; they improve margins, reduce rework, and strengthen client relationships. Start small: pick one resource and make it standard practice. Links Contract Reference Guide (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23944230) Guide to Third Party Reliance (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/guide-to-third-party-reliance-updated/) Important Information About Comet Services - Quality Assurance (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=25620723) Important Information About This Geotechnical Report (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23928564) Important Information About This Geoenvironmental Report (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23928879) Important Information About This Tailings Storage Facility (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23935221) Important Information About This Geoenvironmental Services Proposal (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23935431) Important Information About Quality Assurance (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23935830) Important Information About CoMET Quality Assurance Proposal (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=23935914) Important Information About This Geotechnical Proposal (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?ID=25546194) Guide to the In-House Review of Geoprofessional Reports (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23949396) Best Practice: "Avoiding Absolutes" (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23914200) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 9: Leadership Training Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. Discover GBA's comprehensive leadership training opportunities that span your entire career journey. Ryan and Tiffany share their personal experiences, including how they met through the Emerging Leaders program—an 18-month cohort experience that launched the GBA podcast. Learn about the Early Professional Class featuring 10 interactive virtual sessions led by adult learning expert Brock Simmons, the Fall Leadership Summit bringing committees together with world-class keynote speakers, and specialized peer groups for CEOs, CFOs, practice leads, and more. From committee leadership roles to annual conference keynotes, GBA offers authentic, engaging programs that build lasting professional networks and practical leadership skills. Links Career Continuum (https://www.geoprofessional.org/seminars/) Enroll in one of the 2026 Early Professional Classes (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/now-enrolling-2026-early-professional-classes/) Emerging Leaders Program - Cohort #6 (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/announcing-the-gba-emerging-leaders-cohort-6/) 2025 Fall Leadership Summit Wrap-Up and Reflection (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/gba-fall-leadership-summit-2025-wrap-up-reflections/) Register for GBA's 2026 Annual Conference, April 23-25, 2026, Phoenix, Arizona (https://members.geoprofessional.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?alias=2026Conference) Join a GBA Peer Group (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/unlock-insights-and-drive-growth-with-gba-peer-groups-now-forming-for-2025/) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 10: GBA NewsLog Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. Discover why GBA's NewsLog is your essential biweekly connection to the geoprofessional industry. Ryan and Tiffany break down what makes each edition valuable—from member news ("the tea") covering acquisitions and leadership changes, to handpicked industry headlines on AI adoption and infrastructure trends. You'll learn about featured multimedia content, including the GBA podcast's 24,000+ downloads, plus community features like photo contests and book clubs. Don't miss the special extras: new best practice documents, leadership program opportunities, and exclusive resources. If you're not reading NewsLog, you're missing the tools and insights keeping the profession moving forward. Links Get the GBA Newslog - https://www.geoprofessional.org/newslog/ See what the GBA NewsLog is all about (https://youtu.be/UCeZ2s-EvI8?si=vF0SP6UImxEqNr8a) See how the GBA NewsLog can save your project (https://youtu.be/kRpNFFmIFbE?si=SMQIFIS-_xHTcSgc) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 11: GBA Committees Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. Discover why GBA committees are the essential lifeblood of the association in this engaging episode featuring clips from committee leaders across the organization. Ryan and Tiffany explore how committees bring members together—from newcomers to 30-year veterans—to collaborate, solve shared challenges, and create valuable resources for the profession. Hear directly from most of the committee chairs from Multimedia Delivery, Business Practices, Legal Affairs, BizTech, Environmental, CoMET, Geotech, Inclusion Advancement, Peer Review, and Emerging Issues & Trends committees. Whether you're interested in technical content, business practices, or forward-thinking initiatives, there's a committee waiting to help you grow your network and give back meaningfully to geoprofessionals. GBA Committees Business Practices, chair Matt Van Rensler, PE, MB (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattvanrensler/) Business Technology, chair John Norwood, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-s-norwood-pe-70119741/) Construction Materials Engineering and Testing (CoMET), chair Bryce Moore (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-moore-8a44635a/) Emerging Issues and Trends, chair Helen Pappas, CHMM, ENV SP (https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-pappas-chmm-env-sp-2a75a22b/) Environmental Business, vice chair Dan Grandishar, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-gradishar-p-e-b0914/) Geotechnical Business, chair Blake Cotton (https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-cotton-b692951a/) Inclusion Advancement, chair Rob Howard, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-howard-p-e-147b1527/) Legal Affairs, chair Aaron Mann (https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronjmann/) Multimedia Delivery, chair Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) Peer Review, chair David P. Sauls (https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidsaulspe/) Resource Collaboration, chair Chuck Gregory, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-gregory-pe-3ba2b913/) Links Join a GBA Committee (https://www.geoprofessional.org/join-a-committee/) List of Committees, Missions, and Meeting Times (https://www.geoprofessional.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/commitee-missions.pdf) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

12 Days of GBA – Day 12: Case Histories Summary Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. This debut episode features case histories—one of GBA's most popular offerings. They randomly selected 13 case histories (bonus!), used AI to generate summaries, and shared highlights covering topics from environmental contamination to foundation failures and residential disputes. The case history receiving the most downloads by February 1, 2026 will become a full podcast episode. Each summary provides insights into real-world engineering challenges, risk management, and professional liability lessons valuable for lunch-and-learns or training. Links Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Download Case History #44 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23660961) Download Case History #54 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23661381) Download Case History #23 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23618772) Download Case History #73 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23838726) Download Case History #36 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23619360) Download Case History #29 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23619129) Download Case History #25 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23619024) Download Case History #60 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23661570) Download Case History #17 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23618562) Download Case History #11 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23618331) Download Case History #7 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23586264) Download Case History #4 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23585949) Download Case History #65 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23838369) Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Principal, Vice President/SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

GBA Case History Series – Case History #65 - Treat a Big Deal Like a Big Deal Summary The city retained the Member Firm only for periodic bay-water-sampling services for its “showcase” brownfields project. Different out-of-town firms performed the Geo and Env services. A construction-contract specification made the Member Firm the city’s environmental inspector radically altering what the Member Firm had proposed. Unaware of this change to the “boilerplate” language, the Member Firm signed the contract and forged ahead. Problems during construction led to a suit that was settled through mediation which included monetary payments by all three consultants. The city paid nothing. Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups. Lessons Learned: * Beware of Contractual “Boilerplate” * Never Assume * Be Professionally Proactive * Beware of Projects That Contractually Exclude Continuity of Service * Be Mindful of Joint-and-Several-Liability Risk * Treat a Big Deal Like a Big Deal Calls-to-action: Download Case History #65 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23838369) Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

GBA Case History Series – Case History #75 - OSHA Violations—The Risk of Sharing Equipment Summary Member Firm is responsible for observing the construction of drilled shafts for an extension of a shopping center project. The OSHA inspector cited several violations at the jobsite. The Member Firm arranged a hearing with their attorney and reduced the fines. A good attorney can really be your “12th Man”! Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups. Lessons Learned: * Safety Inspectors Have Significant Authority over Site Activities * When in Doubt, Discuss the Appropriateness of Procedures with OSHA * Attorneys Experienced with the Matter in Dispute Are Great Assets * Train Your Field Personnel in Proper Response to Safety Violations * Be Proactive about Safety Calls-to-action: Download Case History #75 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23838894) Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

GBA Case History Series – Case History #116 - Went Fishing...Caught a Whale Summary A GBA-member firm was hired to evaluate and design the repair of a sheet pile dock at a food processing plant. The owner was pleased with the design but did not have the capital to construct the full repairs and tasked the engineer with devising a temporary solution. In the early morning hours on the first day of mobilization for the project, the dock collapsed and the project immediately shifted from repair to replacement. Daily, it seemed, new problems or concerns arose, and the geotechnical engineer was on-site to make observations, answer questions, and present solutions. Through the extraordinary efforts of the contractor and trust from the owner, the project was completed before the plant’s operating season began and the geotechnical engineer was made to look like a hero. Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups. Lessons Learned: Communicate actively to resolve problems Understand your own intuition Develop strong relationships with client representatives Understand project relationships Calls-to-action: Download Case History #116 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23844606) Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Abi Corbett (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-corbett-2870036a/) – Project Consultant/SME. (https://www.sme-usa.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)

Summary On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful! Links to resources referenced in this video: 2025 Fall Leadership Summit Wrap-Up & Reflections (https://members.geoprofessional.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1911419) Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/your-project-a-standout-enter-the-2026-woodward-l-vogt-project-excellence-award/) GBA Emerging Leaders Cohort #6 (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/announcing-the-gba-emerging-leaders-cohort-6/) Creative Retention Initiatives for Geoprofessional Firms (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/more-than-a-party-creative-retention-initiatives-for-geoprofessional-firms/) State of the Workplace Survey (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GBAWorkplaceSurvey) 2026 Annual Conference Info and Registration (https://members.geoprofessional.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1940325)

GBA Case History Series – Case History #82 - Practice, In Small Claims Court, Makes Perfect? Think About It Summary A GBA member firm conducted a Phase I and Phase II study for the developer AND later did work directly for a former tenant of the same site. After things got even more complicated, the member firm decided to try small claims court for a resolution (where they had already been for at least 60 different projects). This practice did NOT make perfect. Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Tim Rodriguez (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-rodriguez-8812784a/) – COO/BSK Associates (https://www.bskassociates.com/) Tim is the Chief Operating Officer of Geoprofessional Services at BSK Associates, an employee-owned engineering firm. With over 30 years in materials testing and inspection, he oversees six Northern California offices and chairs BSK's Board of Directors. Tim is Past-President of the California Council of Testing and Inspection Agencies. Lessons Learned: Perform a Go/No-Go Analysis Project Risk Often Is Inversely Proportional to Project Size, Complexity, and Fee Avoid Litigation When You Reasonably Can Follow Policies That Work Do Not Give up Leverage When Dollars Are at Issue Understand the Cost of “Your Day in Court” If You Cannot Quell Your Emotions, Rely on Someone Who Can Learn the Lessons of History Calls-to-action: Download Case History #82 (https://members.geoprofessional.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=23839482) Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tim Rodriguez (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-rodriguez-8812784a/) – COO/BSK Associates (https://www.bskassociates.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants (https://www.jltconsultants.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC (https://www.apexcos.com/)