In this episode, I talk with Jacob Borchers, P.E., PMP, vice president at WSP USA, about what it takes to lead successful engineering teams and projects. We dive into why building a solid engineering foundation is crucial, how to empower your team to perform at their best, and the key strategies that drive large-scale project […]

The post How to Empower Your Engineering Teams More Effectively – Ep 054 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Collin George, MBA and Luke Carter, Partners at Talent Matters LLC & Managing Partners at Harrison Assessments International, about how the AEC PM Behaviors Assessment, based on the Harrison Assessment, helps AEC project managers identify key strengths, boost performance, customize training programs, improve leadership skills, and support both personal […]

The post Why Your Project Managers Need The Unique AEC PM Behaviors Assessment – EP 053 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Erin Slayton, P.E., DBIA, Env. SP, senior vice president and transportation program management director at HDR, as she debunks common misconceptions about program management in AEC and highlights its critical role in achieving project success. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are […]

The post Debunking Myths About Program Management in AEC – Ep 056 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Josh Ramirez, Ph.D., NPPQ, PMP, CEO, and Dr. Jodi Bull Wilson, CSM, Ph.D., COO of the Institute for Neuro & Behavioral Project Management, about how understanding human behavior can transform project execution, enhance team performance, and sharpen decision-making for smoother, more successful outcomes. ***The video version of this […]

The post How to Implement Behavioral Project Management for Better Performance – Ep 055 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Akshay Swaminathan, head of data science at Cerebral, about how data science and engineering teams work together to integrate customer perspectives. He also talks about the importance of stakeholder and clinician support, addressing valuable business problems, and ensuring users have the tech to maintain the models. ***The video version […]

The post Innovative Collaboration Strategies for Data Science and Engineering Teams – Ep 046 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Karen Ditz, PMP, commercial manager, and Phil Tunnah, P.E., operations director, from Stanley Consultants about the importance of consistent project delivery and adapting program management strategies to meet various client needs. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions […]

The post Mastering The Skill Of Secure and Consistent Project Delivery – Ep 045 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Pam Hurley, Ph.D., president and founder of Hurley Write, Inc.. about the critical role of effective writing, common writing pitfalls that impact performance, and strategies for project managers to better productivity and improve documentation efficiency. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are […]

The post Writing Your Way to Better Productivity as a Project Manager- Ep 044 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Lane Kawaoka, P.E., founder and author of “The Wealth Elevator,” about effective financial strategies for engineers. We also explore how to apply project management principles to real estate by delegating property tasks and conducting in-depth financial analyses. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: […]

The post The Best Financial Strategies for Engineers in Real Estate – Ep 043 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Amanda Retta, P.E., Civil Engineer IV at Tetra Tech, about the crucial role of effective communication in successful civil engineering projects, and how you can communicate effectively with all project stakeholders, both internal and external. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are […]

The post The Role of Communication in Successful Civil Engineering Projects – Ep 042 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Michael Watry, P.E., vice president and co-founder at Foresight Planning & Engineering Services, about the impact of effective project scheduling on communication and stakeholder management. Michael explains how project controls contribute to decision-making and the identification of deviations from the planned schedule. He also discusses the calculation of key […]

The post How to Create an Efficient Project Schedule for Better Communication – Ep 041 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Robert K. Otani, P.E., LEED AP, about the importance of scope, schedule, and budget in project management, and the challenges and future of integrating AI in Project Management. He also provides great insights on the potential use cases of AI in project management and the need for data analytics […]

The post How to Successfully Integrate AI in Project Management – Ep 040 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Sean Brune, P.E., Department Manager of Project Management at Stanley Consultants, about how to ensure project efficiency and budget control in projects. He also provides great advice for engineers looking to transition into project management. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are […]

The post Successful Ways to Ensure Project Efficiency and Budget Control – Ep 039 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, and in honor of Black History Month, I talk with Tiffani Teachey—a seasoned mechanical engineer, TEDx international speaker, acclaimed children’s book author, and the host of the Women in Engineering Success Stories from STEM Professionals Podcast, about key strategies for achieving success as a Black engineer in the AEC industry. ***The video […]

The post How to Be Successful as a Black Engineer in the AEC Industry – Ep 038 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, Matthew Douglas and I talk about the intricate landscape of AEC PM foundational training and provide some actionable advice to both seasoned professionals and those embarking on their project management journey strategies. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This […]

The post Innovative AEC PM Foundational Training for Modern Professionals – Ep 037 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk about five actions that can help you in transitioning new project managers into their roles successfully. By implementing these actions, firms can support the growth and development of their project managers, driving profitability and long-term success. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Here Are Some Key […]

The post 5 Actions for Transitioning New Project Managers Successfully – Ep 036 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I interview Christian Knutson, CEng, P.E., PgMP, PMP, FICE, F.SAME, Director of European Defense and Security Programs at Jacobs, about the intersection of the engineering sales cycle and project management in engineering projects. We discuss the importance of project delivery success, the role of program management, and how to align sales goals […]

The post How Project Delivery Fuels the Engineering Sales Cycle – Ep 035 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Richard A. Brown, director of project management at Colliers Project Leaders USA, about his journey in construction management, focusing on the critical balance between design innovation and practical construction needs with proactive project management, as well as the vital aspects of effective schedule management that are paramount in the […]

The post Mastering Proactive Project Management for Predictable Engineering Outcomes – Ep 034 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Keith E. Kesner, Ph.D., P.E., S.E. (IL, HI), project director at Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, about the intersection of project management and the field of existing structures, including the challenges, trends, and future directions of engineering repair and rehabilitation practice in the next five to 10 years. ***The video version […]

The post The Role of Engineering Repair and Rehabilitation in Sustainable Development – Ep 033 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Pedro Constanzo, PE, Vice President at Burns & McDonnell, about his expertise related to project management in engineering, infrastructure design, and specifically military base development. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Pedro: How can stress […]

The post Navigating the Complexities of Project Management in Engineering – Ep 032 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Ed Overholt, P.E., PMP, a licensed professional engineer with Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, about how to build an engineering office from scratch, and assemble an effective team. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Ed: […]

The post How to Build an Engineering Office That Delivers Exceptional Results – Ep 031 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk about the essential role of people in AEC project management, and cover how clear communication, effective leadership, and strong relationships are just as critical as technical skills in every project phase. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Leading People Effectively in AEC Project Management: […]

The post The Key to Leading People Effectively in AEC Project Management – Ep 030 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Rachel Mertz, P.E., SE, a senior project manager with Modjeski and Masters, Inc., about her role as a project manager for the Murray Baker Bridge Rehabilitation Project and her overall experience as a woman in engineering. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Rachel: Could you […]

The post Overcoming Challenges and Delivering Success in Bridge Rehabilitation – Ep 029 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, we talk with James Taylor, Jr., P.E., a licensed professional engineer and an Associate Vice President at Verdantas, about five essential keys for engineers transitioning from a technical role to the dynamic world of project management. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of […]

The post 5 Essential Keys for Engineers Transitioning to Project Management – Ep 028 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Adham Naiem P.E., LEED Green Associate, PMP, Senior Project Manager at the National Institute of Building Sciences, about the crucial role of team dynamics in achieving successful project outcomes and fostering a sustainable future in the transportation engineering sector. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** […]

The post How Effective Communication Can Improve Team Dynamics and Project Success – Ep 027 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Dan Oblinger, a commanding hostage negotiator, esteemed author, international keynote speaker, and skilled consultant specializing in business negotiation, about negotiation strategies for managing scope creep in engineering projects and how to navigate the complexities of forging robust agreements. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering […]

The post Expert Negotiation Strategies for Managing Scope Creep – Ep 026 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Karuna Ramanathan, a transformation consultant coach from KR Konsulting Pte. Ltd., about organizational leadership and the vital skills that every effective leader should possess. He also provides some great strategies for overcoming challenges in remote work and explains how project managers can ensure their teams stay aligned with […]

The post Top Tips for Effective Organizational Leadership in Project Management – Ep 025 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Bret Tushaus, VP of Product Management at Deltek, about the importance of project management in the architecture and engineering industry. We explore the benefits of refined project management disciplines and how to select the right project management tools for your organization. Brett also provides great tips for improving project […]

The post How to Choose the Right Project Management Tools for Your Organization – Ep 024 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Marc Sklenka, LEED AP, MCPPO, from Colliers Engineering & Design, about several key topics related to project management, including the qualities of an effective project manager, the role of project management in the AEC industry, essential skills for success, and much more. ***The video version of this episode can be […]

The post The Essential Qualities of an Effective Project Manager – Ep 023 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Arthur Antoine, Ph.D., P.E., PMP, DBIA, a civil engineer and senior project manager at Mott MacDonald with over 20 years of experience in the construction and engineering industry, about the importance and benefits of collaborative project delivery. Arthur also sheds light on the key characteristics that encourage collaboration among […]

The post The Benefits of Collaborative Project Delivery in the Construction Industry – Ep 022 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Viswanathan Raju, PgMP, PMP, LSSBB, a seasoned project management professional, who shares some invaluable insights on effective project management. We explore the core components of effective project management strategies, ranging from communication and coordination with stakeholders to managing project constraints and achieving success within budget and timelines. ***The video […]

The post How Effective Project Management Strategies Can Help You to Stay on Track and Deliver Results – Ep 021 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Joanna Mason, P.E., a senior project manager at Schnabel Geostructural Design & Construction, about the challenges and best practices of managing complex construction projects, covering topics ranging from communication and coordination with stakeholders to ensuring project success within budget and timeline constraints.  Joanna also shares her expertise in documenting […]

The post The Challenges and Best Practices of Managing Complex Construction Projects – Ep 020 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I discuss the biggest failure in AE consulting firms’ development of project managers, which is neglecting to educate the project managers’ managers. This failure results in a lack of reinforcement for the training provided, rendering it ineffective and wasteful of time and resources. To address this issue, I propose three specific actions […]

The post Three Ways to Get Your Project Managers’ Managers on Board – Ep 019 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Sean Spromberg, P.E., the team leader at MSA Professional Services, about the vital role of self-reflection and continuous improvement for engineering leaders. He also talks about how working in construction benefits engineering and how to overcoming fear in your engineering career. ***You can view the video version of this episode […]

The post Self-Reflection and Continuous Improvement Strategies for Engineering Leaders – Ep 018 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I discuss common pitfalls in developing project managers and share how firms can overcome them. Many firms make the mistake of grouping all their project managers together by experience level, but this is never the best-case scenario. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About The Common Pitfalls […]

The post The Common Pitfalls in Developing Project Managers and How Firms Can Overcome Them – Ep 017 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

Striking the right balance between authenticity and authority in leadership is key to driving project success and building strong team dynamics. Leaders who stay true to themselves while maintaining clear direction inspire trust, encourage collaboration, and create a culture of accountability that leads to winning results.

The post How to Balance Authenticity and Authority for Project Success – Ep 052 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Adriana Leotta, an applications engineering manager at Farrat, about the importance of adopting a hybrid approach of Agile and Waterfall methodologies in projects that involve both software and hardware components and how engineers can effectively work in an Agile environment while producing effective Waterfall solutions. We also discuss the […]

The post Optimizing Engineering Project Success by Combining Agile and Waterfall Methodologies – Ep 016 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I speak with Vince Hafeli, MBA, president of Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, about an often overlooked but critical issue: suicide in the construction industry. Sadly, construction workers have a suicide rate that is significantly higher than the national average, as highlighted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In our […]

The post Transformational Leadership and Mental Health in the Engineering Industry – Ep 015 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Kristen McCoy, an operations manager at Parametrix who shares valuable insights in conducting productive virtual meetings, fostering effective internal team communication, and distinguishing oneself through impactful client communication. ***You can view the video version of this episode here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Kristen: […]

The post Effective Communication Strategies for Virtual Meetings and Project Management – Ep 014 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Frank Sherkow, P.E., TE, PSE, ENV SP, F.ASCE, a distinguished member of the board of Directors at the Southwest Lincoln County Water People’s Utility District (SWLCWPUD). We delve into the critical topic of diversifying behavior styles within project teams and explore the pivotal role that effective leadership communication plays […]

The post Behavior Styles, Team Diversity, and Project Success: A Guide for Project Managers – Ep 013 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Strauder Patton, P.E., PMP, vice president of People and Places Solutions at Jacobs. We discuss the evolving role of project managers in the industry, including the need for adaptability in the face of new demands. Additionally, we explore the important distinction between management and courageous leadership in project management […]

The post Courageous Leadership in Project Management: Adapting to New Demands – Ep 012 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to James Houston, P.E., PMP, CCM, Assistant Vice President at WSP USA, about five key lessons he learned as a professional project manager. He also touches on CCM, P.E., and PMP certification. ***You can view the video version of this episode here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions […]

The post 5 Key Lessons Learned by a Professional Project Manager – Ep 011 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Alejandro Jimenez Gomez, the Head of Project Development for Global Offshore Wind projects at UL Solutions, about how he manages offshore wind projects, and what some of the current and future risks are for this industry. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Alejandro: Can you […]

The post How to Effectively Manage Offshore Wind Projects – Ep 010 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Scott West P.E., PMP, LEED AP BD+C, ASHRAE BCxP, BEAP & BEMP, a mechanical engineer from HFA in Fort Worth, TX, about how a project manager can add value to projects, and how his MBA has helped him in his career. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions […]

The post How Project Managers Can Add Value to Projects – Ep 009 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Richard (Rich) Negri, MSCE, P.E., the owner and principal engineer of Geoterra Engineering & Construction Consultants, about engineering in the residential real estate industry, and how to manage client expectations in your engineering projects. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Richard: What do you do […]

The post How to Manage Client Expectations in Your Engineering Projects – Ep 008 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Chris Perry, Senior Vice President and Program Director at Woolpert, about the importance of building relationships with your clients and how you can provide value to their projects. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Chris: Why is client relationship important in project management? How can […]

The post The Importance of Building Relationships With Your Clients – Ep 007 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Noelle Cochran, P.E., F. NSPE, Noelle is the vice president and risk management director at AECOM, and she takes us through some strategies that project managers in the architecture, engineering, and construction space can use to improve their risk management skills. Mastering these techniques will not only help you mitigate […]

The post Techniques for Better Risk Management in the AEC Industry – Ep 051 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Mallory Wilde, P.E., a transportation-focused civil engineer from Parametrix, about how you can bring your genuine self to project management by being open and honest with your team and clients. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Mallory: What was your experience like in becoming a […]

The post Project Management Tips: How to Be Your Genuine Self in Project Management – Ep 006 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk about how you can hold your project managers accountable and why it matters by providing you with three specific steps you can start implementing right away. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Hold Your Project Managers Accountable: The reason that holding project […]

The post How to Hold Your Project Managers Accountable (And Why It Matters) – Ep 005 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to JC Hungerford, PE, a civil engineer and Water Division Manager at Parametrix, about how effective communication with your project teams and clients can help you ensure you deliver projects on time and within budget. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask JC: Why is communication so […]

The post The Critical Role That Effective Communication Plays in Project Management – Ep 004 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Gary Hamilton, P.E., CEng, PMP, LEED AP, CxA, EDAC, FASHE, Senior Vice President, and USA Healthcare Director at WSP, about project management in designing healthcare facilities, and how someone with a strong technical background can transition into a management role. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I […]

The post Project Management Tips for Engineers: How to Become a Well-Rounded Project Manager – Ep 003 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.