The AEC Leadership Podcast

Urban mixed-use leadership requires aligning diverse stakeholders, community interests, and funding to deliver transformative development projects. This episode delves into the complexities of managing large-scale urban developments and the essential communication skills needed by technical professionals. Listeners will gain insights on combining strategic leadership with public engagement to achieve lasting urban impact. The post Leadership Challenges in Urban Mixed-Use Projects – Ep 368 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

AEC leadership growth is crucial for building sustainable firms and advancing organizations effectively. This episode explores practical strategies for simplifying complexity, empowering teams, and scaling with agility. Listeners will gain insights into structuring their businesses and leading with clarity to foster long-term success. The post Building Effective AEC Leadership and Growth Strategies – Ep 367 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

Goal setting reflection is vital for AEC leaders to develop leadership skills, manage burnout, and improve organizational performance. This episode explores practical strategies to reflect on achievements and set aligned goals for career and personal growth. Listeners will learn how to adopt a reflective practice to foster resilience and sustained success. The post Effective Reflection and Goal Setting for AEC Leaders – Ep 366 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

Chaos leadership strategies are essential for AEC leaders aiming to transform uncertainty into opportunity. This episode outlines how leaders can manage internal chaos to improve decision-making and inspire innovation. Listeners will gain tools and insights to foster resilient, high-performing teams in challenging environments. The post Turning Chaos into Leadership Advantage – Ep 365 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

Leading high-performing professionals requires understanding executive function, stress impact, and sustainable leadership strategies. This episode explores how leaders can manage overwhelm and leverage strengths for clarity and impact. Listeners will gain insights into effective leadership without burnout in demanding environments. The post Leading High-Performing Professionals Without Burnout – Ep 364 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

Leadership strategies technical professionals must master include building strong teams, growing business, and managing performance effectively. This episode explores practical techniques leaders can apply to enhance their influence and impact. Discover how balancing challenge with support can accelerate team growth and success. The post Leadership Strategies for Technical Professionals – Ep 363 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Daven Oswalt, Water Business Group Director at GFT, about essential AEC leadership skills. He shares invaluable insights from his three decades of experience leading complex water and infrastructure programs globally. Discover how to build high-performing teams, effectively communicate project value, and navigate constant change in the AEC industry to […] The post Develop Strong AEC Leadership Skills for Impactful Projects – Ep 362 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Josee Tremblay P.Eng. ICD.D, Professional Engineer and Principal at Strategic Decisions Group, about inclusive leadership and its transformative power in the AEC industry. We explore how decision quality, cultural awareness, and human connection elevate team performance. Josée shares her unique journey from engineering to board advisory, offering actionable insights […] The post Building Better Teams Through Inclusive Leadership In AEC – Ep 361 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Boris Martin, CEO of Engineers Without Borders USA, about purpose-driven engineering and how it’s transforming the future of leadership in the AEC industry. He explains how engineers at every career stage can grow their leadership skills, communication abilities, and personal fulfillment by pursuing projects with meaning. This inspiring conversation […] The post How Purpose-Driven Engineering Builds Skills and Confidence – Ep 360 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Krystn Macomber, CP APMP Fellow, LEED AP, Founder and CEO of Summit Strategy, about AEC proposal strategies that help firms stand out and win more work. We explore evolving client expectations, persuasive storytelling, and shifting from compliance-driven responses to connection-driven communication. Learn how to make proposals skimmable, engaging, and […] The post AEC Proposal Strategies to Win More Work – Ep 359 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Jason McDaid, BSc (Hons) PMSFPE MIEI MIFSM, Senior Fire Engineer at Ryan & Associates and Impostor Syndrome coach, about impostor syndrome and hidden cognitive strain and how it shapes performance, confidence, and culture in technical teams. We explore engineering leadership, impostor syndrome in technical fields, and how to overcome […] The post Impostor Syndrome in Engineering Leadership and Workplace Culture – Ep 358 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Jay Wratten, PMP, US digital lead and global smart places lead at WSP in the U.S., about digital transformation in AEC and how it reshapes both client relationships and project delivery. We look at the shift to smart buildings, the rise of new pricing models, and the leadership lessons […] The post Digital Transformation in AEC for Smart Buildings – Ep 357 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Ruth Milligan, founder and speech coach at Articulation Inc., about communication skills for technical leaders in AEC, and how small, intentional changes can transform the way professionals connect with clients, teams, and audiences. We explore leadership communication strategies, public speaking for engineers, and presentation skills for technical professionals that […] The post Top Strategies to Improve Communication Skills for Technical Leaders in AEC – Ep 356 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Craig Shannon, vice president and California regional leader at Parametrix, about people-first engineering leadership and building strong teams. We discuss how employee-owned engineering firms, soft skills, and ASCE involvement shape AEC leadership strategies. We also explore how modern collaborative project delivery models are changing how engineers lead and deliver […] The post Why People-First Engineering Leadership Drives Project Success – Ep 355 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Bryce Batts, co-founder of Career Collective, about AEC talent acquisition strategies that help firms build careers and cultures aligned with core values. We explore how organizations in the AEC industry can stand out in a competitive talent market, avoid common hiring missteps, and foster inclusive, future-ready workforces. Engineering Quotes: […] The post AEC Talent Acquisition Strategies for Building Inclusive, Future-Ready Firms – Ep 354 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Omo Esemuede, PE, PMP, Senior Vice President of Aviation at WSP in the U.S., about leading complex infrastructure program leadership initiatives by aligning capabilities, guiding teams under pressure, and using global experience to elevate leadership. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Infrastructure Program Leadership: […] The post Infrastructure Program Leadership: Best Practices for Stronger Teams – Ep 353 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode I talk to Michelle Gladieux President of Gladieux Consulting about courageous communication for leaders and how leaders can overcome barriers like hiding rationalizing or settling to build trust give better feedback and lead with impact especially in technical professions like engineering and construction. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points […] The post Why Courageous Communication for Leaders Is Essential in AEC Teams – Ep 352 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Patrick Guide, MBA, PMP, Leadership Development Coach & Speaker at Maxwell Leadership, and soon to be Senior Marketing Manager at Dow, about how servant leadership for engineers, adaptability, and storytelling can transform technical experts into impactful leaders through engineering leadership development, and why leading with service builds trust, clarity, […] The post Engineering Leadership Development That Builds Teams – Ep 351 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Susan Devine, community building division manager and principal consultant at Parametrix, about AEC leadership and mentorship, the principles that shape team success, how meaningful guidance fuels both project impact and personal growth, and why employee ownership creates a stronger, more invested team culture. ***The video version of this episode can […] The post AEC Leadership and Mentorship That Empowers Teams to Thrive – Ep 350 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Scott Baryiewski, owner and president of South Shore Construction, about how to spot the warning signs that indicate the need for parking structure maintenance and what smart property managers and AEC leaders can do now to avoid costly repairs in the future. ***The video version of this episode can […] The post Fundamentals of Parking Structure Maintenance You Need To Know – Ep 349 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Angelique Adams, Ph.D., MBA, Leadership Coach, and CEO of Angelique Adams Media Solutions, about how technical professionals can enhance their careers by strengthening their presentation skills for engineers. We explore strategies to gain buy-in for ideas, communicate complex concepts clearly, and transform technical presentations using seven powerful core elements. […] The post Remarkable Presentation Skills for Engineers That Will Influence Decision Makers – Ep 348 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Daniel Tocchini, co-founder and senior partner at Take New Ground, about how conflict, when handled with intention, becomes a leader’s greatest tool and why avoiding tough conversations may be the biggest leadership mistake of all. This episode is a masterclass in effective leadership communication and how it shapes team […] The post Effective Leadership Communication Tips to Overcome Conflict Better – Ep 347 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Ben Lamorte, Founder and President of OKRs.com, about what truly makes goal-setting frameworks like OKRs work and the biggest mistakes leaders make when setting goals. We also explore how AEC professionals can use structured goal setting for engineers through OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) to create meaningful change and lasting […] The post Goal Setting for Engineers: How to Use OKRs for Surprising Results – Ep 346 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Rebecca Swabey, P.Eng., CEO and Co-Founder of Equator Studios, and new co-host of this podcast, about building a tech startup in a traditionally risk-averse industry, and how AEC firms can embrace innovation, streamline workflows, and drive meaningful transformation through tech leadership. ***The video version of this episode can be […] The post How Tech Leadership Offers Growth For Engineering Professionals – Ep 345 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Bill Spohn, P.E., president & CEO of TruTech Tools, LTD, about key design strategies and the critical role of energy efficient HVAC design in sustainable buildings, uncovering smarter choices that drive sustainability without compromising performance. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some […] The post Energy Efficient HVAC Design That Will Transform Building Performance – Ep 344 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I speak with Peter C. Atherton, P.E., president and founder of ActionsProve, LLC, about effective strategies for navigating leadership challenges, retaining top talent, and driving strategic growth in AEC. We also delve into his book “Next-Level Leadership: How to Build and Leverage Your Essential Team Success Ecosystem.” ***The video version of this […] The post How to Ensure Sustainable Strategic Growth in AEC Teams – Ep 343 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Jim Carlough, professional speaker, author of “The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership: A Roadmap To Success,” and chief sales officer at mPulse, about the transformative strategies from his book and how AEC leaders can apply these principles to inspire their teams and successfully navigate the complexities of a rapidly […] The post Eye-Opening Fundamentals of Effective Leadership in AEC You Need to Know – Ep 342 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Anne Meixner, PhD, principal owner at The Engineers’ Daughter LLC, about effective leadership strategies in engineering that enhance collaboration, empower engineers, and cultivate a culture of innovation and continuous learning. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed […] The post The Most Powerful and Effective Leadership Strategies in Engineering – Ep 341 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Stacie Alexiou, CEO and Managing Director of WATT + FLUX, a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and Six Sigma Master Black Belt, about how she uses a reverse engineer method to integrate decarbonization and energy-saving strategies into AEC operations. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: […] The post Unlock Sensational Growth With the Reverse Engineer Method in AEC – Ep 340 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Lisa Nourse, talent acquisition manager at Stanley Consultants, about the evolving engineering recruitment landscape, the challenges AEC firms are navigating in recruitment, and practical strategies engineers can leverage to excel and build successful careers. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Gain a […] The post How to Gain a Competitive Edge in the Engineering Recruitment Landscape – Ep 339 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I speak with Marsha Anderson Bomar, Ph.D., AICP, F.ASCE, H.ITE, ENV SP, a strategic transportation advisor at GHD, about the key forces shaping the future of infrastructure. We explore the most pressing challenges and uncover the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in this rapidly evolving field. ***The video version of this episode […] The post Innovative Solutions and Key Challenges Shaping the Future of Infrastructure – Ep 338 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Yasmina Khelifi, PMP, PMI-ACP, PMI-PBA, and Mayte Mata Sivera, PMP, about how volunteering can transform your leadership skills. Learn how these experiences unlock personal growth, strengthen your network, and open doors to exciting career opportunities. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are […] The post How to Empower Your Leadership Skills Through Volunteering – Ep 337 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Chad Smeltzer, vice president of technology at Maze of Life Resource Center, about how technology is revolutionizing mental health support in construction and driving the urgent digital transformation needed in the AEC sector. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the […] The post How Technology Is Changing Mental Health Support in AEC – Ep 336 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Dalmo Cirne, senior manager of machine learning engineering at Workday, about the concept of “management streams” and why it’s vital for effective leadership and organizational success in the AEC industry. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed […] The post How to Implement Management Streams in AEC Leadership – Ep 335 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Dagna Bieda, coach, author, and speaker, about how AEC professionals can refactor their mindset to boost productivity, overcome imposter syndrome and burnout, and unlock their full potential with actionable insights from her book, “Brain Refactor.” Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Refactor […] The post How to Refactor Your Mindset for Better Performance – Ep 333 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk to Madi McIntyre-Holmes, SHRM-CP, HR coordinator at Menard USA, about how AEC leaders in fast-paced industries can navigate difficult conversations, strengthen their teams, and balance policies with empathy for better leadership and team growth. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Navigate Difficult Conversations […] The post How to Navigate Difficult Conversations as an AEC Leader – Ep 332 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I explore how clear values, meaningful work, and guiding others lead to personal and team growth. I also highlight the importance of understanding your team’s goals to build a motivated and energized workforce. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points […] The post Skyrocket Your Team With Clear Values and Career Goals – Ep 331 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I talk with Tina Heath, P.E., LEED-AP, senior technical client manager at T&M Associates, about the challenges and triumphs of shifting from an engineer to leader. We dive into key strategies for navigating this transition, including how to move from controlling tasks to supporting and understanding your team. ***The video version of […] The post How to Shift From Engineer to Leader Successfully – Ep 330 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, we talk with Robyn Clark, CEO of WinningWise, about succession planning, performance management, and leadership development in engineering. We explore their significance for organizations, focusing on aligning goals and enhancing employee satisfaction. Robyn also highlights the shift toward developmental performance management and its impact on engagement and retention. ***The video version of […] The post Strategies for Successful Performance Management in Engineering – Ep 329 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, I speak with Pamela Ellis, MBA, Ph.D., founder and CEO of Compass Education Strategies, LLC, about how to choose right college for aspiring engineers. We cover admissions and scholarships, and she outlines key considerations including academic offerings, social fit, financial aspects, career objectives, and cultural environment. ***The video version of this episode […] The post How to Choose the Right College for Aspiring Engineers – Ep 328 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, we talk to Margie Oleson, Ed.D., change consultant at Oleson Consulting LLC and OCM Lead at Lockheed Martin, about unique challenges faced by CEOs and C-suite executives. She also shares some great advice for navigating turbulent times in companies, building effective engineering leadership teams, fostering cohesion, and ensuring long-term improvements. ***The video […] The post Engineering Leadership: Empowering Strategies for Success and Growth – Ep 327 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, we talk to Josh Valman, CEO of RPDK, Innovation Board Advisor to the Royal Academy of Engineering, and Investment Committee Board Member at the British Design Fund, about the gap between education and real-world engineering. He emphasizes the importance of practical experience, interpersonal growth, and the need for continuous learning and adaptation […] The post Balancing Technical Skills and Interpersonal Growth for Engineering Success – Ep 326 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, we talk to Robert J. Khoury about the key principles and strategies for creating an exceptional internship experience. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and intentionality in designing internships that meet the needs of both the employer and the intern. Robert also highlights the significance of dignity in internships and the impact […] The post How to Guarantee a Great Internship Experience – Ep 325 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, we talk with Peter Schroeder about his journey as a tech entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned in starting and growing a business, the importance of leadership and management, and the traits that set a successful tech entrepreneur apart. Peter also provides advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and emphasizes the need […] The post The Traits That Define a Successful Tech Entrepreneur – Ep 324 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, we talk with Vinod Narayan, senior software engineer and project manager at Viviota, about effective strategies for excelling in both hardware and software fields. Vinod also provides some great advice on leading diverse teams in complex engineering projects. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are […] The post Effective Strategies for Thriving in Hardware and Software Industries – Ep 323 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, we talk with Alan Stein, Jr., a former basketball performance coach turned corporate keynote speaker, and author of “Raise Your Game”, about the application of high-performance leadership principles across diverse aspects of life. He emphasizes the importance of fundamentals and never getting bored with them. He also shares a story about meeting […] The post High-Performance Leadership Strategies for Engineers – Ep 322 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.

In this episode, we talk with Farnoosh Brock about the importance of leadership and engineering communication skills. She emphasizes the need for engineers to close the gap between technical and leadership skills to advance in their careers. Farnoosh highlights the significance of confidence and voice in effective communication and leadership. She also discusses the role […] The post How Communication Skills Can Propel Your Engineering Career Forward – Ep 321 appeared first on Engineering Management Institute.