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