Engineering Influence from ACEC

Welcome to the latest episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. Katharine Mottley, Vice President of Tax and Workforce Policy, is joined by Alan Perkins from Tonkin Torp LLP, diving into crucial discussions on immigration policies affecting the engineering industry. This episode emphasizes the workforce shortages in engineering and explores the pivotal role international students and professionals play. With half of engineering master's degrees in the U.S. awarded to international students, the conversation delves into the challenges and implications of green card policies under different administrations, and how these policies impact engineering firms. Join us as we analyze the contrasting immigration agendas from past and present U.S. administrations, reflect on proposals regarding H-1B visas, and discuss strategic moves engineering firms can consider amidst potential regulatory changes. This insightful discussion is vital for understanding how immigration policies are interwoven with the sustainability and growth of the engineering sector.

Join us on this insightful episode of the Engineering Office Podcast, presented by the American Council of Engineering Companies, as we explore the critical importance of indoor air quality. Our special guest, Randy Huckaby from CAMFIL, shares valuable insights into air pollution control in both commercial and industrial spaces. Through this conversation, we delve into the various causes of indoor air pollution and its potential health impacts. Moreover, Randy highlights the significant role of engineering firms and CAMFIL's expertise in developing solutions that meet regulatory standards and ensure a healthy work environment. Whether it's new construction or retrofitting existing facilities, CAMFIL is at the forefront of helping engineer companies design optimal air filtration systems, equipped to handle complex particulate matter challenges. Discover how involving experts from the onset can pave the way for safer, cleaner indoor spaces.

In this episode of Engineering Influence, we discuss the crucial topic of indoor air quality in industrial and commercial facilities with Randi Huckaby from Camfil. With her expertise, we explore the significance of air quality post-COVID-19 and the elements contributing to indoor pollution. Randi shares insights into the technologies used in air pollution control, the health impact of poor air quality, and current regulatory standards. We delve into how Camfil collaborates with engineering firms to develop customized dust collection solutions, ensuring facilities meet safety norms while maintaining productivity. From retrofitting to scaling up facilities, learn about Camfil’s comprehensive approach to dealing with air quality challenges and the importance of involving experts from the beginning. Visit camfil.com to discover more about their global solutions for air pollution control.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast from the ACEC! In this episode, we delve into the critical issue of embedded carbon in the built environment with Kelly Roberts, Principal and Managing Director of the Atlanta Structures Group for Walter P. Moore. Roberts provides insights from their latest report, shedding light on how the engineering industry can address carbon reduction, focusing on sustainability and embodied carbon. From discussing material choices like low-carbon concrete and mass timber to exploring policy pathways, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating sustainable structures while reducing carbon emissions.

Welcome to another episode of the Engineering Influence podcast, where we delve into the world of digital transformation and AI within the AEC industry. Join Thomas Grogan and Ronen Vengosh as they explore how organizations can navigate the complexities of change management and the importance of data governance. Ronan shares invaluable insights into best practices for firms embarking on a digital transformation journey, regardless of their size. Discover strategies to enhance security and automate data governance, enabling firms to fully harness the potential of AI and technology. Hear about the success stories of adaptable firms embracing new business models and rethinking processes to thrive in the modern digital landscape. Conclude the episode with Ronan's tech optimism, highlighting the opportunities for increased productivity and efficiency as the AEC industry embraces the future.

Welcome to another episode of the Engineering Influence podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies. Join Diana O' Lare, Director of Market Intelligence at ACEC National, as she engages in a compelling conversation with Mike Moss, President of the Society of College and University Planning. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of higher education, diving into topics such as enrollment trends, the impact of administration changes, and the future of campus planning. Discover how institutions are adapting to demographic shifts, with insights into the concept of the "enrollment cliff" and its implications. Learn about the role of international students, the influence of artificial intelligence on campus planning, and potential financial challenges faced by educational institutions. Diana and Mike discuss workforce shortages and the importance of STEM programs. This episode offers valuable perspectives for engineering firms, shedding light on opportunities that arise from trends in education and their impact on the engineering sector. Whether you're interested in integrated planning, multidisciplinary spaces, or innovative learning environments, there's something here for everyone. Don't miss this engaging discussion that weaves together the future of education with engineering excellence. Subscribe to the Market Briefs Newsletter: https://www.acec.org/resources/market-intelligence/#newsletter Download the latest brief: https://www.acec.org/resource/educational-market-brief-fall-2024/

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we delve into HDR's distinctive approach to employee experience and talent development. Discover how HDR fosters a culture of employee ownership and collaboration, offering diverse development paths tailored to individual needs and aspirations. Learn about HDR's holistic talent ecosystem, where technical and soft skills training intertwine, and mentoring takes both structured and organic forms. Explore how HDR prepares young talents for real-world challenges, emphasizing the importance of communication and interpersonal skills alongside technical expertise. The discussion underscores HDR's commitment to staying ahead in the ever-evolving engineering landscape, highlighting their innovative strategies to integrate technology and future-proof their workforce. Tune in to gain insights into HDR's efforts to expand the engineering field's reach, emphasizing problem-solving and the positive impact of engineering on communities.

Welcome to the latest episode of Engineering Influence, a podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we are joined by Jon Gray, Principal at Rockport Analytics, to discuss the recently published economic forecast for the engineering industry, specifically tailored for 2024. John provides insightful analysis into the macroeconomic impact of the engineering design services industry on the U.S. economy, presenting a comprehensive overview of growth, employment trends, and wage projections. With data collected over five years, this report offers valuable trend indicators that are shaping the industry’s present and future. The discussion also delves into the effects of federal spending, notably from acts like the IIJA and the Inflation Reduction Act, which continue to drive notable growth in infrastructure and other key sectors. Additionally, John and Jeff examine the geographic shifts in industry growth, highlighting states like North Carolina and Florida, and explore the market sectors that are thriving versus those facing challenges. Addressing the workforce and skills gap, Jon explains how labor shortages are impacting project delivery and industry profitability. As firms navigate these challenges, strategic insights provided in this episode are indispensable for industry leaders and policymakers alike. Don’t miss this engaging episode that combines economic theory with real-world application, guiding the engineering sector through uncertain times towards a promising future.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, where we delve into the newly released ACEC Research Institute 2024 Quarter 4 Engineering Business Sentiment Survey. This quarterly survey offers a comprehensive look at current and future business conditions within the engineering industry by interviewing and surveying CEOs across the sector. In this episode, host Jeff is joined by Joe Bates, the researcher behind the survey, as they explore the positive sentiments surrounding the U.S. economy, the industry, and firm finances. Despite a slight moderation, the overall sentiment remains strong, buoyed by the bipartisan infrastructure law and ongoing projects reaching the construction phase. A major challenge discussed is the workforce shortage, with many firms turning down profitable work due to staffing issues. Joe and Jeff address the significant impact of this shortage and economic and political uncertainties on the industry's future outlook. The episode also highlights sectoral winners and losers, with government-supported areas like infrastructure and manufacturing thriving, while commercial real estate struggles. The booming data center market is also discussed, showcasing its continuous growth. Listeners are encouraged to explore the full report for deeper insights and historical trends and stay tuned for upcoming analyses on economic indicators and future forecasts. The episode concludes with a nod to the ongoing work of the ACEC Research Institute in providing valuable data and insights for the engineering community.

In this episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, we delve into the transformative journey of HDR, an employee-owned engineering firm. From its founding in 1917, HDR has evolved through various stages of ownership, culminating in a buyback in 1996 that established its current employee-owned model. Join host Jeff as he engages with a panel of esteemed guests, including Eric Keene, former CEO and current chair of HDR, Tom Sanders, senior vice president, and Aaron Slayton, Transportation Program Management Director and ESOP board member. Together, they explore the impact of employee ownership on HDR's culture, growth, and operational success. The discussion highlights the unique benefits of HDR's ESOP structure, fostering a culture of connection, collaboration, and resilience. Discover how this ownership model has influenced HDR's recruitment and retention strategies, enhanced financial literacy among employees, and guided the firm's growth and acquisition decisions. Tune in to learn how HDR's commitment to broad-based employee ownership has created a thriving environment for innovation and excellence in the engineering industry.

Join us on the Engineering and Public Works Roadshow as we explore the innovative Mountain to Sea Trail Connector project in Oak Ridge, North Carolina. This episode, recorded at the inaugural Great Trail State Conference in Winston-Salem, highlights the collaborative efforts of local engineers and city planners to connect two key natural trails, enhancing public safety and accessibility. Our guests, Mike Slusher from Davis Martin Powell and Bill Bruce from the City of Oak Ridge, share insights into the project's inception and execution. They discuss the challenges of designing a trail that complements the rural landscape while maintaining community harmony and addressing public concerns. Discover how this connector contributes to the larger 1,200-mile Mountain to Sea Trail, fostering tourism, economic growth, and community engagement. This episode showcases the transformative impact of thoughtful engineering and public investment in enhancing quality of life and community identity.

In this episode of Engineering Influenced by the American Council of Engineering Companies, Shreya, the Marketing & Communications Coordinator at ACEC, welcomes Bret Tushaus, VP of Product Management from Deltek. Together, they explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the engineering industry and discuss how Deltek is leveraging AI to enhance project management and decision-making. Bret delves into the importance of using AI to turn rich project data into actionable insights, emphasizing the significance of data privacy and security. He shares how Deltek's solutions are designed to empower project managers with the tools they need to drive successful project outcomes. As the conversation progresses, Bret offers advice on how firms can capitalize on existing tools and technologies, making digital transformation an accessible journey rather than an overwhelming challenge. He also envisions the future of AI with the rise of "agents" that can automate tasks and workflows, further enhancing efficiency and productivity. Listeners are encouraged to explore Deltek's offerings and resources, including their website, blog, and town halls, to stay informed about the latest advancements in AI-driven solutions.

In this inspiring episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast, we sit down with James Lawrence, renowned endurance athlete and our keynote speaker at the 2024 annual fall conference in New Orleans. Sponsored by Bentley, this episode explores the incredible journey of James, the world record holder for completing 101 consecutive Ironman races, and the profound lessons he learned along the way. James shares his insights on pushing boundaries, redefining mental toughness, and the importance of embracing challenges in life. Through vivid anecdotes, he discusses how confronting the "bully" inside our heads can transform our approach to life's obstacles, turning them into opportunities for growth. Drawing from personal experiences, James emphasizes the power of resilience and the impact of showing up daily to live a life with no regrets. He also talks about the invaluable lessons his family learned from his journey and how these experiences have shaped them into confident individuals ready to face the world. Tune in to discover how small, consistent changes can lead to significant transformations, both personally and professionally, and learn about James's upcoming book, "Iron Hope," set to inspire even more people to chase their dreams.

In this episode of the Engineering Influence podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies, host Shreya, the Marketing & Communications Coordinator, is joined by Adam Loewentheil, co-founder and CEO of Aldoa. Together, they delve into the transformative power of technology in the engineering and consulting industries, emphasizing the evolution over the past 20 years and the promising direction it's headed towards. Adam sheds light on the challenges faced by engineering firms in adapting to new technological advancements, highlighting the industry's reliance on outdated tools like Microsoft Word and Excel. He introduces Aldoa's innovative, verticalized SaaS solution, specifically designed to address these challenges, streamline workflows, and incorporate AI to enhance efficiency without compromising the scientific expertise of professionals. The discussion extends to the benefits of vertical SaaS solutions, which are purpose-built for specific industries, offering tailored functionalities and cost savings. Adam shares insights into Aldoa's key offerings, including project management, resource management, and financial management tools, which have already attracted over 100 U.S. customers this year. For those interested in learning more about Aldoa's solutions and how they can be customized for their business, Adam invites listeners to visit their website or reach out via email. Tune in to discover how Aldoa is revolutionizing the engineering and consulting landscape. Visit Aldoa's website: www.aldoa.com

In this episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast, we dive into the unique employee ownership model of HDR, a leading engineering firm. Founded in 1917, HDR transitioned to an employee-owned company in 1996 after a group of managers bought it back from an international concern. This pivotal change has significantly influenced HDR's culture and business operations. Learn how HDR's employee ownership structure not only attracts and retains top talent but also enhances client relationships through a shared sense of responsibility and pride. This episode provides valuable insights into how HDR's ESOP model empowers employees, promotes financial literacy, and ensures long-term sustainability for future generations of leaders and owners.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, recorded live at the 2024 Annual Fall Conference and sponsored by Bentley Systems. In this episode, we delve into the transformative impact of Bentley's new AI-powered software suite, OpenSite+, on the civil engineering industry. Join our conversation with Francois Valois, VP of Civil Engineering, and David Settlemeyer, Senior Product Manager at Bentley, as they discuss how OpenSite+ is revolutionizing site design and land development. This groundbreaking software promises to equip engineers to deliver high-quality projects up to 10 times faster than traditional methods by leveraging AI-driven tools. Discover how OpenSite+ stands out with its unique features, including a co-pilot experience that enhances productivity, automates drawing creation, and optimizes project workflows. Learn about the ethical considerations behind Bentley's data policy and the importance of data security for engineering firms. Explore the software's interoperability with other Bentley products and third-party applications, ensuring seamless integration and data accuracy throughout the project lifecycle. Find out more about how OpenSite+ is setting a new standard in civil engineering and how firms can participate in its early access program. Tune in to understand how AI is reshaping the engineering landscape, allowing professionals to focus on what they do best—innovative design and exceptional client delivery.

Join us for an insightful episode of Engineering Influence, recorded live from the American Council of Engineering Companies' 2024 fall conference in New Orleans. This episode, sponsored by Bentley, features a conversation with Don Foster, Chief Customer Officer at Panzura. Discover how Panzura is revolutionizing data management by providing resilient solutions that help organizations handle unstructured data amidst growing cyber threats and evolving work environments. Don shares Panzura's approach to creating a robust infrastructure that ensures data accessibility and security, whether on-premises, cloud-based, or hybrid. Explore the role of AI in enhancing data processes and the steps Panzura is taking to integrate machine learning for threat detection and workflow optimization. Learn how Panzura's innovative tools, such as CloudFS and Panzura Symphony, are empowering engineers to collaborate in real-time and complete projects more efficiently. If you're interested in learning more about Panzura's offerings, visit their website for blogs, white papers, and upcoming webinars. Tune in to this episode to understand how Panzura is helping businesses thrive in the digital age.

Join us live from the fall conference in New Orleans as we dive into the impactful journey of the ACE Mentor Program with special guests Stephanie Davi McNeely, Director of Development and Strategic Partnerships, and Art Alzamora from ACE New York. Discover how this initiative, founded in 1994, has shaped the future of over 100,000 students, encouraging diversity and inclusion in engineering, architecture, and construction industries. Learn about the program's core group mentoring model, its impressive scholarship achievements, and how it supports first-generation college students. Our guests share inspiring success stories, highlight key initiatives focused on alumni programming, and discuss the importance of mentorship in shaping future leaders. Explore ways to get involved with ACE Mentor and hear about the collaborative efforts with the newly formed Engineering Workforce Consortium. This episode is a testament to the power of mentorship in bridging gaps and building a skilled, diverse workforce for tomorrow.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, recorded live at the 2024 Fall Conference. This special episode celebrates the achievements of our scholarship winners, highlighting the success of the expanded scholarship program by the ACEC Research Institute. Join us as we chat with Ella Smith, a civil engineering student from Lawrence Technological University in Michigan. Ella shares her journey into the world of engineering, sparked by her love for math and science from an early age. She discusses her interest in geotechnical engineering, influenced by her exposure to public sector infrastructure and urban planning through her mother's career as a city planner. Ella also talks about the exciting opportunities and technological advancements in the field of engineering today. As she prepares for graduation in May 2025, she looks forward to entering the workforce and finding a firm with a great workplace environment. Tune in to hear more about Ella's aspirations and insights into the evolving engineering landscape.

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we delve into the future of transportation, focusing on mass transit, with expert insights from Stuart Lerner, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Stantec North America. With over 30 years of experience in transportation infrastructure and transit-oriented projects, Stuart shares his personal and professional journey in the world of mass transit. He discusses the challenges commuters face and the legendary war stories that have become part of urban folklore. Stuart emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to improve commuting experiences and reduce traffic congestion. As the discussion unfolds, Stuart highlights the impact of the pandemic and climate change on transportation, particularly in urban centers like New York City. He explores the controversial concept of congestion pricing and its potential to fund mass transit improvements. Stuart also addresses the financial sustainability of mass transit systems and the need for alternative approaches to meet changing commuter demands. Join us as we explore the possibilities of a hybrid transportation model, incorporating technologies like autonomous vehicles and bus rapid transit. Stuart advocates for embracing new technology to create flexible and reliable mass transit systems that adapt to post-pandemic realities and environmental challenges. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the future of transportation and the role of technology in shaping a more sustainable and efficient commuting experience.