Engineering Greatness

In this episode, Dr. Jialuo He, Research Assistant Professor at Washington State University, and Dr. Lori Tunstall, Assistant Professor at the Colorado School of Mines, share the unique paths that led them into civil and environmental engineering. Dr. He reflects on his shift from polymer materials to pioneering work in self-healing concrete, tracing an academic journey that spans multiple institutions and research disciplines. Dr. Tunstall discusses her unexpected move from an English major to an engineering career fueled by a deep curiosity for concrete materials and their real-world applications. Together, they highlight the power of interdisciplinary learning, the role of curiosity in shaping research trajectories, and the importance of professional networks—especially through the American Concrete Institute. The conversation offers a forward-looking perspective on the rapidly evolving field of concrete materials and the innovative approaches shaping its future. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/ouLY6RnHZqY Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Destry Kenning, product manager at SureBuilt Manufacturing, and Chris Garcia, structures project manager at DPR Construction, share their journeys from the classroom to the construction site. They discuss how real-world experience shaped their careers in civil engineering and concrete, the mentors who guided their growth, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of hands-on learning, professional resilience, and building connections through organizations like the American Concrete Institute (ACI). Both guests offer practical advice and encouragement for students and emerging professionals pursuing a future in construction. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/h0SGdnGco6U Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Emilia Clavijo, Graduate Research Assistant at Auburn University, and Amanda Angelo, FACI, Regional Fiber Specialist at Sika USA, share their paths into civil engineering and the experiences that shaped their careers. Amanda discusses her unexpected shift from pre-med to civil engineering, sparked by a fascination with concrete, and how that passion led her to pursue a PhD in infrastructure materials engineering. Together, they reflect on the importance of fieldwork, committee involvement, and the balancing act of professional commitments. The conversation also underscores the supportive role of organizations like ACI, which provide community, mentorship, and opportunities that are vital to the growth of young professionals in the field. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/GuZhzf_ck00 Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Danny Smyl, PhD, PE, Assistant Professor Georgia Institute of Technology and Stephanie Paal, Associated Professor Texas A&M University College of Engineering, share their unique journeys into civil engineering and how international work-life experiences shaped their careers. They discuss their commitment to advancing the field through machine learning and reflect on their active roles with the American Concrete Institute. From personal stories to professional insights, this conversation highlights the transformative potential of AI in structural engineering and its promise for reshaping industry practices. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/Z6UakYv6ysM Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Maria Juenger, Professor at The University of Texas at Austin and current president of ACI, joins Megan Voss-Warner, PhD, Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Evansville, to share their personal paths into the world of civil engineering. Megan reflects on her journey from studying chemistry to discovering a passion for materials science and civil engineering, while Maria shares how an early love for math and science shaped her career. Together, they discuss how awareness of engineering careers has evolved over time, their active roles within the American Concrete Institute (ACI), and how student competitions help spark interest and engagement in the field. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing research and teaching, offers career advice for young engineers, and highlights the vital role of mentorship and professional communities like ACI in shaping successful careers. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/fTRRWJcwkR0 Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Joshua D. Gilman, P.E., director of sustainable infrastructure at the Portland Cement Association, and Andrés Matos Ortiz, P.E., project manager at Millennia Professional Services, share their unique career journeys from geotechnical engineering to the world of concrete and sustainable infrastructure. They discuss how their geotechnical expertise shapes their current work in concrete materials testing and sustainability, while also highlighting the critical role of soft skills, professional development, and maintaining work-life balance. The conversation underscores the value of engaging with organizations like the American Concrete Institute (ACI) to expand professional networks and advance career opportunities. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/-y8Cm-YLvtE Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Madonna Saad, a recent graduate of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Vania Del Carmen Moreno-Colin, a student at the University of Washington, share their journeys in civil engineering. Vania reflects on her transition from participating in a rocketry team to taking on leadership roles within ACI, while Madonna discusses her active involvement in engineering clubs and her internship experiences. Together, they highlight the importance of seeking out opportunities, engaging in research, and leveraging networking and sponsorships to advance their careers. They also candidly explore the challenges and rewards of balancing academics with extracurricular commitments, offering valuable advice to aspiring engineers. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/848LlOErp6U Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Joseph Grout of Texas State University and Emma Roth from South Dakota State University, students in Concrete Industry Management (CIM) programs, share their unique journeys into the field. Emma’s entry was inspired by her father’s career, while Joe shifted from computer animation to concrete sculpture. They discuss research on 3D-printed concrete structures, balancing technical service with customer engagement, and leadership in ACI chapters. The episode also highlights efforts toward inclusivity, concrete aesthetics, sustainability, and the strong support from industry patrons, with a focus on CIM program offerings across five states. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/bwmp4YeGDbE Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Katey O'Quinn, a civil engineer at the Bureau of Reclamation, teams up with Michael Paul, principal structural engineer at Larsen & Landis and president of the American Concrete Institute, to share their career experiences. They discuss the pivotal role of mentorship and ACI committees in shaping their paths, with Katey spotlighting the ACI Foundation Fellowship that supported her research. Together, they underscore the importance of local ACI chapters and the industry's growing emphasis on low-carbon concrete. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/Q0jWLojggkg Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Linfei Li, Ph.D., assistant research professor of the Advanced Structures and Composites Center at the University of Maine, co-hosts with Dr. Xijun Shi, assistant professor in the Ingram School of Engineering at Texas State University. Join them as they discuss their journey from students to professionals in civil engineering, highlighting the vital roles of hard work, resilience, and networking. They delve into their research on concrete materials, stressing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. Plus, they share insights on maintaining personal relationships and work-life balance to prevent burnout. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/U5ID9wJtWLU Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Kamran Amini, Ph.D., P.E., senior material engineer at AltaVista Solutions, co-hosts with Gabriel Arce, research scientist at the Virginia Department of Transportation. Join them as they delve into their shared love for concrete. From academic journeys to professional development, they discuss their fascination with this essential material and the exciting projects they're involved in. They also discuss how the American Concrete Institute has been instrumental in their professional development. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/n54wJ_vNI9M Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In the season 2 premier, Bruno Fong-Martinez, PhD, concrete engineer at Kiewit, co-hosts with Catherine Lucero, civil engineer at the Bureau of Reclamation. Join them as they dive into their captivating career journeys in civil engineering. Together, they explore the significance of mentors and advisors in the field, share insights on pursuing graduate degrees, discuss their research initiatives and interests, express their passion for concrete, and emphasize the value of active involvement in the ACI community. Join this dynamic conversation that delves into the world of civil engineering and the key factors that shape successful careers in the industry. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/kx4HwP5Rlyk Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 17, Mirian Velay-Lizancos Ph.D., assistant professor in the civil engineering department at Purdue University, co-hosts with Prannoy Suraneni, PhD, assistant professor in the civil and architectural engineering department at the University of Miami. Join them as they discuss their career journey in civil engineering, research initiatives and interests, and the importance of being involved in the ACI community. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/Z0fVPVs1SCs Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 16, Mary Christiansen, associate professor in civil engineering at the University of Minnesota Duluth, co-hosts with Nishant Garg, assistant professor in civil & environmental engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Join them as they discuss their career journey, which culminated in academics, advice for students who are considering a career in academia, what interests them in concrete, various research initiatives, and their involvement in the ACI community. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/stzE5TkseuA Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 15, Sriramya Nair, assistant professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Cornell University, co-hosts with Dr. Cameron Murray, assistant professor at the University of Arkansas. Join them as they discuss working in academics, influences on their career, their involvement in the ACI community, and advice for students who are considering a career in academia. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/7zMOv8Lw1EM Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 14, Dr. Alvaro Ruiz Emparanza, Postdoctoral Associate at the University of Miami, co-hosts with Antonio Nanni, ACI president and chair of the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering at the University of Miami. Join them as they discuss their passion for concrete and civil engineering, their journey to the U.S., their involvement in ACI, and current and future industry challenges. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/1zYHmHlrZiY Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 13, Elissa Narro Aguirre, Administrative Manager for Concretos Narro and Professor at Universidad Americana del Noreste (UANE), co-hosts with her brother, Alejandro Narro Aguirre, Chief Executive Officer for Concretos Narro. Join them as they discuss mentoring the next generation of concrete professionals, working together, and their involvement with the ACI Northeast Mexico Chapter. This episode is produced in Spanish. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/PWD_gnVVLEI Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 12, we give the hosting reins to David Orense, Structural Materials Engineer at SK&A Structural Engineers, and Madeleine Murphree, a civil engineering graduate from the University of Florida. Join them as they talk about choosing the right career path and starting in mix design, advice on starting an ACI student chapter, the importance of being involved in industry organizations like ACI, what to look for in grad school programs, and the civil engineering journey.

In episode 11, we give the hosting reins to Jonathan Lyle, Project Superintendent for McCarthy Building Companies, and Keila Lombardozzi, Superintendent for DPR Construction. Join them as they talk about their journey into construction management, how ACI shaped their passion for the concrete industry, the importance of student competitions, and making connections for career growth. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/LgF94K3lmxE Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 10, we give the hosting reins to Faraj Shahrstan, Bridge Engineer Associate for Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc., and Matthew Allen, Structural EIT at Dillon Consulting Limited. Join them as they talk about what drew them to civil engineering, the importance of student competitions, their career journeys, engineering in Canada, and the importance of being involved in organizations like ACI. Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/l6t6TqTFE14 Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.