In this episode, I talk with Lisa Nourse, talent acquisition manager at Stanley Consultants, about the evolving engineering recruitment landscape, the challenges AEC firms are navigating in recruitment, and practical strategies engineers can leverage to excel and build successful careers.

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Gain a Competitive Edge in the Engineering Recruitment Landscape:





The engineering recruitment climate remains dynamic and highly competitive, shaped by shifting market demands and evolving workforce expectations. It has moved from a transactional process based on qualifications to a strategic, relationship-driven approach where candidates prioritize growth opportunities, work-life balance, and meaningful work.

Stanley Consultants stands out with its reputation for delivering complex, high-impact transportation projects. The company combines global project opportunities with local community engagement, emphasizes inclusion, and invests in professional development and leadership opportunities for employees.

Recruiting senior engineers presents challenges due to widespread talent shortages, an aging workforce, and limited pipeline growth to replace retirees. These difficulties span sectors such as transportation, energy, and water, highlighting a pressing need for innovative recruitment strategies.

Engineers can advance their careers by focusing on targeted strategies at each stage: early-career professionals prioritize hands-on experience, mentorship, certifications, and networking, while mid-career and senior engineers focus on leadership, emerging technologies, knowledge sharing, and active participation in professional communities.

Valuing and recognizing employees creates a positive and collaborative workplace culture that builds trust and loyalty. Employees who feel appreciated and acknowledged are more likely to remain with the organization and actively contribute, even in challenging times.

Companies can support senior professionals by setting clear goals, providing autonomy, and assigning tasks aligned with individual strengths. Seeking their input, publicly recognizing contributions, and encouraging calculated decision-making strengthens trust and engagement.

Stanley Consultants offers a clear career roadmap, supports certifications, provides leadership and technical training, and encourages involvement in strategy and innovation discussions. Growth opportunities are tailored to individual strengths, allowing employees to contribute meaningfully to both local and global projects.

AEC professionals benefit from continually upskilling, embracing emerging technologies, and actively participating in professional organizations and conferences. Combining technical expertise with adaptability, innovation, and collaboration enables them to excel in an evolving industry focused on impactful, sustainable projects.



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About Lisa Nourse

Lisa Nourse is a dynamic and innovative talent acquisition manager at Stanley Consultants, where she has been a pivotal member for over 9.5 years. Her expertise lies in transforming organizations into high-performing, collaborative teams, focused on hiring the best candidates while implementing sustainable and impactful processes.



As a strategic partner in the hiring process, Lisa advises business leaders on best practices, ensuring that recruitment strategies align seamlessly with organizational goals. She is renowned for her mentorship and coaching abilities, adept at assigning work based on availability, skills, and developmental needs. Her approach to performance assessment is both motivational and results-driven.



Lisa possesses sharp analytical and problem-solving skills, which enable her to interface closely with senior business lea...