Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Technical Leadership Talks

Can AI protect chickens from aerial predators?

METM alumnus John Daughtridge set out to answer that question through his Capstone Project: SKYGUARD, an open-source AI-powered raptor detection system. In this episode, John shares the story behind the project, how the technology works, the challenges of building an AI solution from the ground up, and the real-world impact it could have for small-scale farmers. He also reflects on the lessons he learned during his METM Capstone and how the experience shaped his approach to technical leadership and innovation.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In this alumni spotlight, we sit down with Don Sweat, Operations Readiness Engineer at Shell and Master of Engineering Technical Management alumnus. Don reflects on what motivated him to pursue METM, how he balanced the demands of work, life, and graduate school, and the ways the program shaped his leadership style and approach to teamwork. He also shares valuable advice for professionals stepping into leadership roles and why he believes METM is a worthwhile investment for career growth.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today's podcast episode, we are joined by Sara Sanders, METM Class of 2023. Sara reflects on her experience in Texas A&M's Master of Engineering Technical Management program — from navigating the demands of school alongside a full-time career, to growing alongside professionals from across industries, to developing the emotional intelligence that shapes how she leads today.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Sunshine Webster, director of Texas A&M’s Master of Engineering Technical Management (METM) program, to discuss where METM is today and where it’s headed. 

Dr. Webster shares her vision for the future of the program, how METM continues to evolve alongside industry and technology, and the skills today’s technical professionals need to lead in an increasingly complex world. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ben Zoghi, founder of Texas A&M’s Master of Engineering Technical Management (METM) program, to explore how METM began and why it was created. Dr. Zoghi shares the industry needs that inspired the program, the leadership gaps he saw in traditional engineering education, and the vision behind METM’s focus on technical leadership, emotional intelligence, and real-world application. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today’s episode, we are featuring Austin Gary, a Senior Project Manager at STRUCTURAL. We discuss how leaders can strengthen workplace culture while navigating the differing management styles of multiple generations. 

Listeners will learn practical strategies for bridging these gaps, improving communication, and leading unified, high-trust teams.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In this episode, we sit down with Teena Redhorse, Founder and CEO of Redhorse Engineering. Teena shares her journey of launching her own company—from the courage it took to take the leap, to the challenges, rewards, and leadership lessons she’s gained along the way.

Visit Redhorse Engineering's website at this link. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In this episode, we sit down with Christopher Jimenez—combat veteran, engineer, and founder and coach at EQ-Discovery. Chris shares his personal journey from military service to engineering and entrepreneurship, revealing how emotional intelligence has been a guiding force along the way. Through his story, we explore how EQ can help us navigate life’s toughest challenges, strengthen leadership, and create resilience in both career and personal growth.

To learn more about Chris’s work and coaching, visit EQ-Discovery.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today’s episode, we are featuring Rafael Patron, the Plant Senior Director at Tenaris. The audio you will hear is from Texas A&M’s Master of Engineering Technical Management’s Executive Leadership Speaker Series. At this series, Rafael spoke to METM students about his leadership journey and provided insights and advice to help guide students as they navigate their current and future leadership roles. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today’s episode, we are talking to Julianne Sanscartier. She currently works as an Engineer 3 at Los Alamos National Laboratory and graduated with her Master of Engineering Technical Management (METM) degree in 2024. Today, we discuss moving into management at a young age, her leadership style, and the skills she took away from the METM program.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In this episode, we are featuring Branden Ramsey. Branden works at Axiom Space as the Senior Director of Digital Transformation. Today, Branden discusses how to lead successful enterprise-wide technology rollouts. He delves into how to overcome the challenges of these rollouts, as well as the tools and tactics that lead to successful ones. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In this Alumni Spotlight episode, we speak with Tyler Esters, Plant Manager at Closure Systems International and a 2024 graduate of the METM program. Tyler shares his experience returning to school as a working professional and father, how he balances family life and work with school, and the skills he gained through the METM program. Listen to hear what it looks like to grow as a leader while managing real-life demands.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In this episode, we speak to Denise Sherrod, Chief of Automation at Occidental Petroleum. Denise shares the story behind her Capstone Project, which she completed during her time in the Master of Engineering Technical Management program. Tune in to hear how she approached the project, what made it successful, and how it continues to influence her leadership and work in the energy industry today.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today’s episode, we are featuring Dr. Noush Bayat. Dr. Bayat works with clients for Executive Leadership Coaching and Consulting, including being one of the Personal Leadership Coaches for Texas A&M’s METM program. In this episode, Dr. Bayat discusses the neuroscience and importance of creating psychological safety in a workplace environment. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today's episode, we feature Tobin Williams, former Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Stellantis. This exclusive audio was recorded during Texas A&M's Master of Engineering Technical Management's (METM) Executive Leadership Speaker Series, where Tobin spoke to METM students, faculty, and guests. He reflects on his leadership journey that has taken him to several countries around the world and shares invaluable leadership insights from his exciting career and life. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today's episode, we sit down with John Hughes, President & EQ-I Executive Coach at EI Assessments. John has extensive experience in EQ assessments and coaching for leadership and executive development across various industries.

Recently, John worked with 112 Lincoln Lab Group Leaders, Assistant Group Leaders, and professional staff, conducting personalized debriefing and coaching sessions based on EQ-I data. Together, we’ll dive into his analysis of the data collected, uncovering key emotional intelligence skills essential for success in high-performing environments.

Before we get into the data, you’ll also hear a snippet of an EQ Assessment with John, offering a firsthand look at the assessment and coaching process. Tune in for an engaging discussion on how EQ can transform leadership and professional growth!

Learn more about John and EQi Assessments here: https://www.eiassessmentsllc.com/

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today's episode, we are spotlighting an alumnus of Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management (METM), a degree that prepares engineering and technology professionals to become the leaders of the future. 

We dive into Martin’s experience in the METM program and explore how the skills he gained—like prioritizing self-care, fostering team trust, and developing strategic leadership—have become integral to his day-to-day work in the fast-paced world of consulting.

Tune in to hear actionable insights on leadership, why taking care of yourself is crucial to taking care of your team, and how Martin applies lessons from METM to empower his team and drive results.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In this episode, Ryan Holt, Manufacturing Engineering & Facilities Manager at Dover Precision Components, dives into the powerful role empathy plays in building positive professional relationships. 

Ryan shares how fostering empathy can strengthen workplace culture, drive team engagement, and help leaders advance their agendas effectively. As a faculty support and alumnus of the Master of Engineering Technical Management program, Ryan reflects on how his experience in the program sharpened his emotional intelligence, a skill he now leverages in his work and personal life. Listen to explore the impact of EQ in technical leadership fields!

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today's episode, Ahmed Mahmoud, retired CIO of Global Manufacturing and GPSC at General Motors, sits down to interview Kip Gary. With his career leading him to becoming the current CEO of the Brock Group, Kip discusses his experienced insight on how leaders can rise to their full potential. 

Kip shares practical advice, personal stories, and key strategies for navigating leadership challenges. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned professional, this episode provides valuable insights into building a successful leadership career.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today's episode, METM's founding director, Dr. Ben Zoghi, sits down with Dr. Elsa Murano, the Director of the Norman Borlaug Institute for International Agriculture & Development. 

Dr. Murano shares her incredible leadership journey. From being appointed the Under Secretary of Agriculture for Food Safety in the U.S. Department of Agriculture to being named the first woman president of Texas A&M University, Dr. Murano delves into the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her career. Listen in as she discusses her leadership philosophy, the importance of resilience, and offers invaluable advice for women aspiring to leadership roles. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today's episode, Matthew Edghill, the Director of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Enterprise, explores the journey from being an individual engineering team contributor to stepping into leadership roles. 

Matt shares his personal experience of climbing the ranks at Lockheed Martin, offering valuable insights for those navigating similar transitions. He delves into the challenges of moving from a technical role to leadership, discusses strategies for effective conflict management, and explores how the landscape of technical leadership is evolving. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or looking to refine your leadership skills, tune in to hear practical advice and real-world examples. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today's episode, we are spotlighting an alumni of Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management (METM), a degree that prepares engineering and technology professionals to become the leaders of the future. 

Carlos Perez is a Navy combat veteran and currently works as an Offshore Maintenance Supervisor for Shell. Today, he speaks about the importance of body language in leadership, finding purpose in your work, and the difference between leading and managing. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

Considering switching careers? Dr. Melissa Flagg is familiar with that choice. Beginning her career as a pharmacist, she's also worked in security at the State Dept., in philanthropy at the MacArthur Foundation, as well as many other career fields and places. 

Not only has Dr. Flagg found success on her nonlinear career path, but she has used the diverse skills, life experiences, and lessons learned specifically from the evolving nature of her path to gain the success and fulfillment in her career that she has today. 

Listen to today's episode to hear Dr. Flagg speak about her unique career path, and the guidance she can give from her experiences to others who are seeking to find success along a nonlinear career path of their own. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

In today's episode, we are spotlighting an alumna of Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management (METM), a degree that prepares engineering and technology professionals to become the leaders of the future. 

Today, Kat Pressler speaks about her leadership journey, her experience earning her METM degree, and how she has brought the skills she learned from METM into her current role as an APJ Enablement Partner at Qualtrics. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

As a manager, the responsibility of having difficult conversations is necessary, yet a skill most of us struggle to properly develop. In this episode, we speak with Sunshine Webster, the Senior Manager of Talent Development at Q2, about how to coach effectively through these interactions.

Listen as Sunshine gives practical strategies to transform difficult conversations into constructive dialogues. From preparation to execution to follow-up, Sunshine shares how to navigate these conversations with confidence and empathy, while still keeping them productive. Tune in to gain actionable techniques that fosters a culture of open communication and growth within your team.

Sunshine Webster teaches Persuasive Communication for Technical Managers for the Master of Engineering Technical Management program at Texas A&M University.  

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

Over the past year, the landscape of AI innovation has surged dramatically into the public consciousness, permeating nearly every professional domain. Yet, amidst this rapid expansion, a crucial question arises: what are the legal boundaries of AI application? 

Tune in to today's episode as lawyer Mike Speed delves into the current legal state of AI as of March 2024. With a focus on patent, copyright, and trademark law, Speed provides invaluable insights into the current legal landscape. Furthermore, he navigates the evolving terrain of fair use in the context of AI.

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers. 

Transitioning from a tech-based role to a management role is not without its difficulties. In today's episode, we speak with Jordan Caddick, a project director at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, about his own journey into management. Jordan highlights the importance of time spent in a technical role, continued education throughout one's career, and EQ skills used in leadership. 

Technical Leadership Talks is brought to you by Texas A&M University's Master of Engineering Technical Management, a program that equips working technical professionals for the next step in their careers.