Engineering Influence from ACEC

Music. In this episode Andrea Beaty—STEM graduate and author of Rosie Revere, Engineer—joins the show to discuss how storytelling encourages curiosity, resilience, and a sense of identity in young children that can lead them toward STEM careers. She explains how Rosie’s story of failure and persistence helps kids see themselves as engineers and scientists. Andrea highlights the importance of early exposure, literacy, community programs, and industry partnerships to attract and retain more young people in STEM. Practical ideas include supporting book distribution, hands-on projects, and inclusive local mentoring that lets kids contribute to real community problems.

Author Andrea Beaty discusses how her STEM background and storytelling created Rosie Revere, a character who teaches children that failure is part of inventing and learning. The episode explores ways to attract and retain young people in STEM—starting early with books, community programs, and hands-on projects—and the importance of showing kids they belong in science and engineering. Beaty shares examples of how narrative helps children identify as engineers and scientists, mentions literacy and local partnerships as effective strategies for industry involvement, and highlights related resources like project books. She also previews her new picture book "Billie Jean Pete, Athlete," emphasizing curiosity, resilience, and the idea that every experience builds useful skills for the future.

Allison Schneider talks with Dave McIvor, CEO of Lamp Rynearson, about leading engineering firms with purpose, centering people, and designing infrastructure that serves communities for generations. They discuss building trust, inclusive community engagement, values-driven culture, and sustainable leadership practices that pair technical excellence with empathy and long-term impact.

NAWE President Carl Bentzel joins the Engineering Influence Podcast to explain the role of marine terminal operators, current trends shaping ports, and the policy challenges affecting trade and infrastructure. Topics include the impact of trade policy and tariffs, Chinese dominance in ship-to-shore cranes, import volume volatility, technology and space constraints at urban ports, rail connectivity and mergers, and the critical role engineers play in modernizing the waterfront.

In this episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast, we’re joined by Eileen Kennedy, CMO of BST Global, to discuss the groundbreaking findings from the 2025 Global AEC AI & Data Insights Report. From AI adoption trends to workforce transformation, we explore how engineering firms are embracing AI, overcoming challenges, and reshaping the future of the industry. 🔹 Key Topics Covered: Why AI is set to transform the AEC industry within 5 years The readiness gap: firms’ belief vs. actual preparedness How leadership buy-in drives successful AI adoption The surprising role of firm size in AI readiness Workforce evolution: reskilling engineers and the rise of prompt engineering Predictive modeling and how AI is improving project outcomes The importance of data governance, security, and leadership roles in AI strategy. 📊 Download the full AI & Data Insights Report 2025: bstglobal.com/ai 🔹 Download more episodes of the Engineering Influence podcast at https://www.acec.org/resources/podcast/

In this episode, dive into the intricate details of the recently passed tax reconciliation package, a significant legislative achievement for the engineering and business communities. Join Katharine Mottley, ACEC's VP of Tax and Workforce Policy, and Jake Triolo from Capital Tax Partners as they explore the key provisions of this sweeping legislation. Discover how ACEC's advocacy efforts have led to major tax benefits such as the permanency of the 199A, 20% pass-through deduction, and the permanent 21% corporate tax rate. Learn about the implications for R&D amortization and other significant changes affecting engineering firms across the country. Stay tuned as we discuss the nuances of the bill and its future impact on the industry.

Join us on the Engineering Influence Podcast as we dive into leadership development within engineering firms, featuring insights from Brian Walch, founder of Shift Focus Consulting. Discover how to cultivate managers who not only handle projects but also mentor talent and foster a thriving company culture. Brian shares his expertise on creating self-aware, innovative management systems tailored for today’s complex, tech-driven environment. Whether you're guiding a new project leader or enhancing a seasoned principal’s skills, gain practical tools and frameworks to drive growth and success in your firm. Explore the challenges and opportunities posed by decentralized teams and AI technology, and learn how to cultivate resilience, adaptability, and innovation at all levels of management. Tune in for an engaging discussion that promises to enhance the way you approach leadership and organizational development.

Join us on this special episode of the Engineering Influence podcast, hosted by the American Council of Engineering Companies, as we delve deep into the transformative world of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Our guests, Todd Merrihew and Chip Snowden from Hanson Professional Services, shed light on how this revolutionary technology is set to redefine aviation through sustainable electric and hybrid electric aircrafts, advancing urban and regional transport. Discover how AAM is bridging gaps in current aviation systems by offering innovative solutions like urban air taxis and medical delivery drones while complementing existing infrastructure. Todd and Chip share insights on Hanson's leading role in AAM planning and their work with airports, developers, and manufacturers to shape the future of transportation. Gain an understanding of the potential economic and environmental benefits of AAM, its implementation challenges, and the supportive technologies required for its success. The exciting conversation also covers future prospects for AAM, including its socio-economic impacts, infrastructure development, and the eventual democratization of air travel for a broader audience.

In this episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast, Diana O'Lare, Senior Director of Market Intelligence at ACEC National, introduces an exciting new training program designed for mid to senior-level technical staff in AEC firms. The program, spanning from September 11th to November 5th, features five modules focusing on business development strategy, soft skills and sales techniques, proposal writing, client networking and relationship management, and client interviews. These modules aim to equip participants with essential skills to enhance their firm's growth, market share, and overall performance. Accompanied by expert speakers, the program also offers up to 10 professional development hours for credit. Don't miss the opportunity to empower your team and drive success. Register Now: https://www.acec.org/education-events/education/online-education/seller-doer/

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we explore the innovative Saddle Creek High Rate Treatment Basin project in Omaha, a groundbreaking initiative by Wade Trim that has earned one of the prestigious ACEC Engineering Excellence Grand Awards. Join host [Host Name] as he talks with Dave White, Senior Vice President of Wade Trim, and Jim Theiler, Assistant Director of Public Works for the City of Omaha, about how this $94 million project is revolutionizing water quality in the area. Discover the challenges and triumphs of constructing this unique facility on a former landfill site, the technological ingenuity of its gravity-based water flow, and its positive impacts on local communities and educational initiatives. Tune in to learn more about the remarkable engineering feats and community benefits that this project represents.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Engineering Influence podcast, where we delve into the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the AEC industry. Hosted by Allison Schneider, this episode features insightful discussions with Rachelle Ray and Jeff Visnic, who explore how AI is reshaping communication, workflow, and collaboration. Discover how AI is breaking down traditional silos, bridging the gap between engineering precision and creative storytelling, and redefining teamwork in proposal and project execution. Our guests share valuable real-world examples, highlighting what AI can and cannot achieve in enhancing collaboration between technical and marketing teams. As we explore the human elements that AI can't replace, learn about the importance of relationships, passion, and personal experiences in building effective team dynamics. This episode also introduces OpenAsset's new product, Shred AI, designed to enhance collaboration, with Rachelle and Jeff sharing how this tool aims to revolutionize the AEC space.

Join us on the Engineering Influence podcast for an insightful conversation with Rob Brigham, CEO of JEO Consulting Services, recorded live from the ACEC Spring Convention at the Grand Hyatt in Washington, D.C. Discover the journey of JEO, a firm that has been a significant player in the public infrastructure market since 1937, and learn about their commitment to fields like transportation, water infrastructure, and environmental planning. Rob Brigham shares his unique career path, his leadership during pivotal growth phases within the company, and how JEO has evolved under his guidance. We delve into the significance of engaging in national legislative discussions and how JEO remains an influential voice in policy-making circles. Get an insider's perspective on the importance of strategic partnerships, the influence of legislative relationships on business operations, and the power of cohesive industry involvement in political advocacy. Aspiring engineering professionals won't want to miss Rob's insights on building impactful careers and the potential opportunities to influence legislative matters.

Join us live from the annual convention and legislative summit in Washington, D.C., as we welcome Bret Tushaus, Deltek's Vice President of Product Management, for an insightful discussion on AI's rapid advancements. Explore how ChatGPT has been a turning point for AI development, influencing data integrity and the integration of AI in business. Discover the critical role of a "human in the loop" approach, ensuring AI applications are balanced with human expertise and insights. Bret sheds light on the digital twins, and how AI can transform project management, enhance productivity, and streamline processes in the AEC industry. We also delve into the evolving workforce landscape, emphasizing the importance of a hybrid worker skilled in both engineering and digital fluency. AI isn't about replacing jobs but augmenting them through innovative solutions, offering partial relief to the industry's workforce challenges.

Welcome to the latest episode of Engineering Influence, brought to you by the American Council of Engineering Companies, live from the 2025 Annual Convention and Legislative Summit in Washington D.C. In this episode, we dive deep into the business side of engineering with Ed Alizadeh from UES, discussing the evolving role of mergers, acquisitions, and private equity in the industry. Ed shares his decades of experience and offers insights into how private equity is reshaping firms while maintaining growth and entrepreneurial spirit. He elaborates on the integration challenges and cultural shifts when smaller firms join larger entities like UES, emphasizing the importance of collaborative growth rather than mere financial transactions. Join us as we explore these transformative industry trends and consider the significance of market intelligence and strategic foresight in navigating the future of engineering businesses.

Join us on this episode of Engineering Influence, brought to you by the American Council of Engineering Companies, as we explore the rapidly evolving landscape of the engineering industry. Coming to you from our annual convention in Washington, D.C., we sat down with Nick Decker, Director of Engineering for Egnyte, to discuss transformative trends reshaping the field. Dive into the impact of artificial intelligence and post-COVID shifts on infrastructure management and collaboration within engineering firms. Discover how companies are navigating tech consolidation to streamline operations and enhance employee productivity, while addressing critical security concerns in an increasingly AI-enabled world. Uncover strategies to maintain innovation without compromising security, ensuring a bright and efficient future for the engineering industry. Tune in for an informative discussion with insights and predictions for the next phase of engineering evolution.

In this episode of the Engineering Influence podcast, hosted by the American Council of Engineering Companies, Allison Schneider engages in a discussion with Anthony Fasano from the Engineering Management Institute. The episode explores the journey of engineers transitioning into management roles, emphasizing the importance of developing both project management and people leadership skills. Anthony shares his personal experience, highlighting the need for engineers to acquire communication and leadership skills to stand out in their careers. They discuss the significance of early skill development and how technical professionals can seize opportunities to build their soft skills. The conversation also delves into common misconceptions about management skills among engineers and the crucial role of public speaking in enhancing communication abilities. Recognizing people skills as essential for interacting with clients, stakeholders, and communities, the episode underscores the need for comprehensive training programs that combine technical and leadership development. Whether you are in a small or large firm, this episode offers valuable insights into creating a project management culture and investing in the current workforce for sustainable growth. It encourages firm leaders to prioritize a well-rounded skill set for their teams and highlights the resources available through the Engineering Management Institute.

Join us at the 2025 Annual Convention and Legislative Summit as we explore the transformative role of AI in engineering. Our latest podcast features an insightful discussion with Joe Bates, a senior researcher from the ACEC Research Institute, on the pioneering study that delves into AI's impact on the engineering industry. Uncover how AI is set to enhance, not replace, the talent within engineering firms, help bridge workforce gaps, and drive unprecedented efficiency and creativity. With the industry's changing dynamics and the potential AI holds, this episode offers a compelling look at how firms can adapt and thrive in the future. Whether you're already leveraging AI or just beginning to explore its possibilities, this episode is your gateway to understanding AI's evolving role in engineering.

Welcome to this episode of the Engineering Influence podcast, where we delve into the intriguing world of design-build project delivery methods. Our guest, Keith Molinar, joins us to discuss the evolution and growing adoption of design-build techniques in the engineering industry. Discover how this method, originating from the Code of Hammurabi, has evolved to provide increased cost efficiency, enhanced schedule adherence, and improved project performance. Throughout the conversation, Keith highlights the importance of integrated collaboration among owner, designer, and construction teams to ensure successful projects, reducing disputes and enhancing risk management. With recent infrastructure investments, the design-build method is becoming pivotal in delivering large-scale public projects more efficiently. Listen in to learn more about how design-build is shaping the future of engineering project management.

In this episode, we delve into the intersection of technology and the AEC industry amidst the rapid growth in global infrastructure. Rising material costs, labor shortages, and demand for new projects are presenting significant challenges, but embracing digital tools and innovation can help overcome these hurdles. Our guest, Amy Bunszel, Executive Vice President of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Solutions at Autodesk, discusses how technology can optimize resource allocation and ensure efficient spending in infrastructure projects. Amy highlights the critical role of technology in transforming design processes, enhancing the digital backbone of projects, and supporting sustainable and effective construction. The conversation also explores how Autodesk approaches AI to address customer challenges, improve project insights, and enhance industry trust in AI solutions.

Welcome to Engineering Influence, a podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, recorded live from the 2025 Legislative Summit and Convention, we delve into the remarkable engineering project, Intuit Dome, the new home of the L.A. Clippers. Join us as we speak with Shruti Sharma and Ryan Anderson from Walter P. Moore, who share insights on creating this benchmark sports venue. Discover how Intuit Dome stands out by prioritizing basketball, eliminating unnecessary noise, and enhancing fan experiences with the largest double-sided halo board. Learn about the challenges of building in a seismic zone and incorporating modern technology into the design, as well as the innovative structural solutions that allow the arena to integrate everything Clippers-related under one roof. This episode celebrates cutting-edge engineering that brings fans closer to the action while embracing sustainability and renewable energy.