The QBS Express

The QBS Express was joined recently by ACEC KS President Brian Armstrong and Past President Agnes Otto. Take a listen as we look back at 2025 and look ahead to 2026. It’s not only a great review of ACEC Kansas activity, but also a chance to learn much more about our fearless leaders as they share their experiences and some nuggets of wisdom!Episode #35 of the QBS Express is available now!Highlights• 2025 legislative session successfully stopped transportation fund sweeps and advanced water infrastructure priorities• The governor's new water task force mirrors the successful transportation planning model that led to the IKE program• ACEC Kansas maintains formal partnering committees with KDOT, Army Corps of Engineers, State Board of Regents, and others• Qualifications-based selection (QBS) remains the organization's top advocacy priority, protecting the engineering procurement process• The Emerging Leaders Program, now in its 19th year, continues developing future industry leaders• City and County Public Improvement Awards provide unique PR opportunities at statewide conferences• Economic Lifelines partnership strengthens transportation funding advocacy at the state level• Building relationships—with legislators, agency leaders, and fellow engineers—drives the most tangible ROI for board membersChapters0:00 – Welcome and Introductions4:10 – 2025 Legislative Session Wins10:26 – Water Task Force and Infrastructure Priorities13:42 – Formal Partnering Committees Overview29:51 – KSPE Partnership and Collaboration34:06 – City and County Public Improvement Awards38:37 – Economic Lifelines and Transportation Advocacy45:52 – Scholarship Program and National Success51:19 – Fall Membership Lunches Across Kansas56:11 – ACEC-KDOT Partnering Conference Highlights1:02:08 – Water Quality Seminar and Rural Development Events1:04:13 – Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) Advocacy1:09:47 – Emerging Leaders Program Deep Dive1:17:41 – Personal Board Journeys: Agnes Otto1:20:59 – Personal Board Journeys: Brian Armstrong1:24:04 – Why Serve on the ACEC Kansas Board?1:31:56 – Looking Ahead: Infrastructure Funding and AI Challenges1:37:44 – Past Presidents Dinner and Legacy1:40:01 – Lightning Round Questions1:44:13 – Final Thanks and Wrap-UpResources Mentioned• KDOT (Kansas Department of Transportation) – Multiple partnering committees including leadership liaison, road design, and bridge design• KDHE (Kansas Department of Health and Environment) – Informal quarterly partnering meetings• US Army Corps of Engineers - Kansas City District – Joint partnering committee shared with Missouri ACEC• OFPM (Office of Facilities and Property Management) – State design partnering committee member• League of Kansas Municipalities – Host of annual City Managers Conference where city improvement awards are presented• Kansas Association of Counties – Host of annual conference where county improvement awards are presentedOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC Kansas

What does it take to attract and inspire the next generation of engineers? Hear directly from two standout scholarship winners, Matthew Young and Isaiah Choma, as they share their journeys, motivations, and what they’re really looking for in an employer. From switching majors and navigating internships to the importance of work-life balance and company culture, this conversation is packed with honest insights and a few laughs along the way.HighlightsThe winding path from biology to civil engineeringHow scholarship opportunities shape student decisionsThe real value of internships (and the “space to be incompetent”)What young engineers want from employers—beyond salaryThe role of company culture and growth opportunitiesLightning round: favorite bars, movies, and dream travel destinationsChapters00:00 – Welcome and introductions at SMH Engineering in Manhattan, KS01:00 – Meet Matthew Young: background, family, and early interests03:00 – The journey to engineering: switching majors and finding a fit08:30 – Why K State? College choices and COVID-era experiences13:00 – Internships: from city government to Black & Veatch22:50 – Landing a full-time offer and what matters most in a job25:15 – Isaiah joins: biomedical engineering, film, and global ambitions29:00 – What young engineers look for in employers and company culture33:30 – Questions for employers: best days, worst days, and the future of work41:00 – Lightning round: favorite bars, movies, and retirement dreams53:20 – Final thoughts and thanksResources MentionedACEC Kansas Scholarship ProgramACEC Kansas ScholarshipsBlack & VeatchBlack & Veatch CareersKansas State University (K-State)K-State EngineeringSMH ConsultantsSMH ConsultantsASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers)ASCEAISC (American Institute of Steel Construction)AISCOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC Kansas

The QBS Express podcast welcomes House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard to the show. Join us as we discuss his journey from childhood through the world of volunteering with the campaigns of others, and finally to his election to the Kansas Legislature and quick rise to be House Minority Leader. Along the way we’ll discuss people, hobbies, and experiences which shaped his life and commitment to public service.Have you ever wondered what drives someone to pursue a career in public service? Raised in Topeka, Kansas, Brandon shares his unique childhood experiences, from turning entrepreneurial at 13 with a lawn-mowing business to his vibrant involvement in theater and music. Learn how his early interest in policy was sparked by debates on same-sex marriage, leading him to active participation in student government at the University of Kansas, and finally, a career in politics. Discover the pivotal moments and key influences, including his mentors and the bipartisan relationships that have shaped his political stance. Plus, get a glimpse into his favorite dining spots, vacation destinations, and musical preferences. This episode is not just about policy but understanding the person behind the leadership role.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:45 Childhood Memories and Early Influences02:16 Entrepreneurial Spirit and School Activities03:49 Musical Pursuits and High School Decisions08:17 Mentors and Inspirational Figures12:07 Journey into Public Policy14:27 College Activism and Early Political Involvement18:40 Forming the Johnson County Young Democrats21:09 Decision to Run for Office24:06 The Moment of Decision25:21 Journey to House Minority Leader26:57 Navigating the State House28:22 Leadership Roles and Responsibilities30:35 Challenges and Triumphs37:00 Building Bipartisan Relationships42:47 Engaging with Constituents46:30 Personal Favorites and Closing ThoughtsOther Resources:Brandon WoodardLearn more about ACEC Kansas

The QBS Express is delighted to welcome Kansas Senate Majority Leader Chase Blasi to the show. Join us as we go from an idyllic childhood in Colwich, KS to working on multiple campaigns, being a legislative staffer, running for the Senate and eventually attaining the role of Senate Majority Leader. Along the way we learn about Senator Blasi’s inspirations, philanthropic work, and some of his favorite parts of being a legislator and public servant.Representing the 26th district in West Sedgwick County, you will get a personal glimpse into his life, the importance of community and relationships, and hear his advice for those looking to get involved in public service.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:55 Senator Blasi's Early Life and Childhood01:20 Growing Up in a Small Town07:14 Influences and Early Political Interests10:57 First Steps into Politics12:22 College Years and Community Service13:50 Early Career and Political Campaigns15:07 Working in the Kansas Legislature19:11 Transition to Chief of Staff21:48 Decision to Run for Office22:52 A Resignation and a New Opportunity23:44 Early Political Career: City Council at 1825:13 Running for the Senate: The Precinct Path26:50 Winning the Senate Seat and Leadership Reflections30:35 The Importance of Building Relationships37:53 Lightning Round: Personal Insights38:28 Encouraging the Next Generation48:42 Final Thoughts and FarewellOther Resources:Chase BlasiLearn more about ACEC Kansas

The QBS Express was joined by ACEC KS President Agnes Otto and Past President Cameron McGown. Take a listen as we look back at 2024 and look ahead to 2025. It’s not only a great review of ACEC Kansas activity, but also a chance to learn much more about our fearless leaders as they share their experiences and some nuggets of wisdom!We will take a deeper look at their unique career journeys, the value of being involved with ACEC, and how the organization benefits its members. From discussing legislative wins and the importance of qualifications-based selection (QBS) to the rewards of participating in the Emerging Leaders Program, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Don't miss out on their personal stories, professional experiences, and a bit of fun. Tune in to learn more about what makes ACEC Kansas a vital organization for engineering professionals.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:19 Agnes Otto's Career Journey05:29 Cameron McGown's Career Journey07:37 Legislative Review and Water Issues12:58 Partnerships and Collaborations23:49 Qualifications Based Selection (QBS)27:41 Emerging Leaders Program29:56 The Power of Partnerships in ELP30:41 A Heartwarming ELP Success Story31:44 Personal Journeys to ACEC Board32:41 The Value of ACEC Board Membership35:35 Benefits of ACEC for Companies41:06 ACEC National's Impact and Initiatives47:11 Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities50:34 Personal Reflections and Fun QuestionsOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC Kansas

ACEC KS members are making a difference in the world with the work they do every day, but they also make amazing contributions outside of their “day job”. Join us as we visit with Mark Williams, Curt Mader, and Jerry Johnson to learn more about the incredible amount that is given back to communities of need, and the impact it makes on the lives of both those who give and those who receive.From life-changing water purification projects in impoverished communities overseas to personal tales of giving back, this episode shines a spotlight on the extraordinary altruism within the engineering community. Hear powerful stories about the direct impact these projects have on local populations and how the act of giving has profoundly transformed the volunteers themselves. Join us in celebrating the dedication and heart of engineers making a difference around the world.00:00 Introduction to the QBS Express Podcast00:57 Inspiration from Justin Wren's Story02:21 Meet Jerry Johnson: A Lifetime of Engineering03:58 Curt Mader's Engineering Journey06:50 Mark Williams: From Baseball to Engineering09:39 The Impact of Philanthropy in Engineering10:23 Curt Mader's Path to Philanthropy13:29 Mark Williams' Volunteer Journey15:27 Gerry Johnson's Introduction to Agua Viva18:36 Agua Viva International: Mission and Growth25:18 Discussing the Impact of Infrastructure Projects26:00 Heartwarming Stories of Change27:53 Personal Transformations from Service32:40 Challenges and Adaptations During COVID-1936:41 The Giving Culture in the AEC Community43:30 How to Get Involved and Make a Difference46:41 Lightning Round: Getting to Know the GuestsOther Resources:aguavivainternational.orgLearn more about ACEC Kansas

The ACEC Kansas podcast sits down with Matt Volz, head of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub. Tune in to learn more about what “The Hub” means for Kansas communities, economic development, public safety, and of course, ACEC KS member firms!In this episode of the QBS Express, the ACEC Kansas podcast, host Scott Heidner, Executive Director of ACEC Kansas, sits down with Matt Volz to discuss the Kansas Infrastructure Hub. Matt Volz, recently appointed to lead the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, shares his journey from Northern Minnesota to his pivotal role in Kansas. The conversation delves into the origins, funding, and impact of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub and the Build Kansas Fund. They discuss the types of projects eligible, the agencies involved, and the significant opportunities for consulting engineering firms. Listen in to learn how this initiative aims to leverage federal dollars to enhance Kansas infrastructure and the ripple effect it has on the economy and local communities.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:57 Matt Volz's Background and Career Journey02:13 Transition to Kansas DOT and ITS Engineering05:14 Consulting Career and International Experience07:35 Return to Kansas and the Infrastructure Hub08:41 Overview of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub13:27 Funding and Legislative Support14:50 Eligibility and Application Process20:48 Impact on Consulting Engineering Companies26:19 Success Stories and Future Plans31:44 Lightning Round: Getting to Know Matt Volz34:19 Conclusion and FarewellOther Resources:kshub.orgLearn more about ACEC Kansas

The QBS Express, the ACEC KS podcast, sat down with key KDOT leaders to discuss alternative delivery and progress on specific projects using alternative delivery processes. Join us as we discuss the history of state legislation opening up alternative delivery, lessons learned, and more.00:30 Introducing Today's Guests01:33 Unveiling Today's Discussion: Alternative Delivery in Kansas01:59 Guest Backgrounds: Journeys to KDOT10:27 Exploring the DeSoto Project: A Progressive Design Build Model14:00 US 69 Express: Kansas' Largest Infrastructure Project17:03 Comparing Design Build and Progressive Design Build Models21:54 The Industry's Response to Alternative Delivery Models24:25 Consultants and Contractors: Adapting to New Delivery Methods25:53 Local Government and Industry Acceptance of Alternative Delivery26:35 The Evolution of Alternative Delivery in Construction27:17 Key Factors for Success in Alternative Delivery Projects28:50 Unique Requirements and Collaborations in Construction Projects29:41 Progress and Milestones of the DeSoto Project30:14 Detailed Update on the DeSoto Project's Progress34:42 Exploring the 65 Project: Progress and Innovations38:01 Lessons Learned and the Power of Flexibility40:23 The Importance of Co-location and Teamwork46:06 Future of Alternative Delivery with KDOT49:18 Concluding Thoughts and AppreciationOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC KansasThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Join the QBS Express as we visit with Grace Lipford, a recent winner of both state and national ACEC Kansas scholarship awards. Listen in as we visit with Grace about how the scholarship award process provided not just funds but contacts and experience. We also visit with Grace about what she and graduating colleagues are looking for in an employer, the best ways to grab their attention, and how to be a destination employer for these graduates!00:52 Introducing Our Special Guest: Grace Lipford01:48 Grace's Journey to Engineering02:29 Exploring Pre-College Interests and Inspirations05:33 Diving Into College Life and Engineering Passion07:33 The Impact of Scholarships on Grace's Education10:16 Experiencing the ACEC National Conference12:31 Reflections on the Scholarship Process14:17 Insights into Job Preferences Among Engineering Students16:45 The Role of Internships and Career Fairs in Job Decisions19:18 Maximizing Impact at Career Fairs: Strategies for Companies20:26 The Importance of Employer Presence at Career Fairs21:52 Choosing the Right Representatives: Experience vs. Youth22:36 Personalizing Recruitment: Beyond the Resume23:22 Identifying Top Companies: A Candidate's Perspective23:52 The Role of Dramatic Appeal and Technical Details in Attracting Candidates25:42 The Significance of Communication Skills in Engineering27:00 Exploring Company Social Media Presence and Its Impact30:22 Understanding What Companies Seek in Engineering Graduates34:20 Getting to Know the Guest: Favorite Books, Movies, and MusicOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC KansasThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

On this episode of the QBS Express, host Scott Heidner engages in a conversation with Brett Letkowski, the past-president and Cameron McGown, the current president of ACEC Kansas. Rightly entailing reflections on their journeys on the board, they discuss the organization's key events in 2023, the year's initiatives, legislative sessions, funding for water and vertical infrastructures, among other key accomplishments. The guests discuss their involvement in various collaborative projects, challenges they faced, and the impact of their service at the state and national levels of the ACEC. They highlight the significance of scholarship opportunities offered by the ACEC, underscoring the benefits to the students and the industry at large. The podcast also features a discussion on their favorite music, movies, and local restaurants, helping listeners know them better personally.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:59 Looking Back at ACEC's Successes in 202304:29 Partnerships and Collaborations16:02 Scholarships and Opportunities18:40 In-Person Meetings and Conferences23:42 Promoting Qualifications Based Selection26:23 Emerging Leaders Program28:48 Journey to the Board and Benefits of Involvement33:37 Importance of Teamwork and Collaboration35:41 The Role of the Board in Industry Events and Activities36:06 The Board's Influence on Legislation and Policy38:25 Reflections on Serving on the Board40:46 How to Get Involved with the Board42:26 Looking Ahead: Priorities and Challenges for the Year49:08 The Board's Relationship with ACEC NationalOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC KansasThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

In this engaging conversation on the QBS Express, host Scott Heidner is joined by Calvin Reed, Kansas Secretary of Transportation and Director of the Kansas Turnpike Authority, and Greg Shieber, the Deputy Secretary and State Transportation Engineer for the state of Kansas. Both guests share a glimpse of their personal backgrounds, their journeys into the realm of civil engineering, and their experiences working with the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT). They provide valuable insights into KDOT's broad mission, stressing its significant roles beyond the design and paving of roads and building of bridges. The conversation also highlights the agency's vital partnerships at the state, federal, and local level, the challenges and opportunities lying ahead for KDOT, and the critical role of the workforce in the future of engineering and infrastructure projects.00:09 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:02 Guest Background: Greg Schieber06:45 Guest Background: Calvin Reed15:17 Understanding KDOT's Role and Responsibilities23:57 Interactions with Policymakers at State and Federal Level32:33 Appreciation for Agency Partners33:07 Working with Local Units and Government34:13 Building Relationships with Local Authorities34:34 Challenges in Local Infrastructure Maintenance34:59 Investing in Local Bridge Improvement Program36:13 Developing a Local Bridge Planning Tool36:42 Future Challenges in Local System Investment37:07 The Role of KDOT in Supporting Local Governments37:37 Creation of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub38:31 Looking Forward: Challenges and Opportunities for KDOT38:52 Delivering the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program39:25 Future Funding for Transportation41:09 Workforce Challenges in the Industry42:30 Innovation and Changing Technologies in Infrastructure43:15 Managing Inflation in Local Projects44:12 Future of Preservation and Modernization of InfrastructureOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC KansasThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson might very well have the most important job that no one ever really thinks about. He shares with host Scott Heidner how he got to his current position and how the work of the treasury has an impact on the lives of every Kansan. On this episode we discuss:A family heritage of farming since 1868Growing up on the farm and the influence of 4HHow farming has transformed over the yearsWorking in the private sectorRunning for office to fix the underfunded pensionsMaking systems like KPERS work for KansansThe criticality of staff to make the legislature workPartnering with Kathy Wolfe Moore to work on the pension systemThe breadth of responsibility at the treasurer's officeHelping Kansans find unclaimed propertySupporting education savings through the Kansas Learning Quest programThe ABLE Savings PlanOther Resources:The Office of the TreasurerKansas Able Savings PlanKPERSLearn more about ACEC KansasThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Being involved in politics wasn’t even on Blake Carpenter’s radar until a class project at Wichita State led him to an interview with Representative Jim Howell that changed everything. He shares with host Scott Heidner how that journey has led him to his current role as the House Speaker Pro Tem. On this episode we discuss:Growing up in HalsteadBeing ranked a top tier gamer at Call of Duty (when time allows)Trying to figure out what to study at Wichita StateThe value of the Eagle Scout achievementBecoming interested in politicsStarting as a freshman legislator right out of collegeGrowing into leadership roles and the associated time commitmentThe internship programBlake’s podcast, The Kansas BriefingProposing on the cliffs of IrelandOther Resources:Learn more about Braden, Headner, Lowe and AssociatesBlake Carpenter, Kansas State Representative, 81st DistrictThis show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Host Scott Heidner is joined by Kansas State Representative and House Minority Leader Vic Miller. They examine his life from the one room schoolhouse to his love for fantasy sports, as well as his involvement in politics beginning with his time at Emporia State as student body president. On this episode we discuss:Growing up in a one room schoolhouseThe impact of his father’s involvementThe role of Associated Students of Kansas and the act they got passedThe importance of having attorneys (at least a few) in the legislatureStarting out young as an elected officialTrying to balance service and a public practiceHow serving in property valuation gave him an in-demand skillThe fraught challenge of drawing district linesInfluence and responsibilityGetting young people involved in public serviceA love of fantasy sportsOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC KansasVic Miller, Kansas State Representative, 58th District This podcast is brought to you by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Kansas. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Host Scott Heidner is joined by Kansas State Representative and House Majority Leader Chris Croft. They talk about his life and military career that eventually brought him to Kansas and led him to taking on his current role in state government. On this episode we discuss:The role his mother played in his life and finding role models for himGrowing up outsideJoining the Army and seeing the worldHow he met his wifeWhat he learned from Popeye’s Fried ChickenJumping out of the first plane he rode onThe value of mentors in his lifeWorking at the Pentagon and military mobility equipmentFinding a home in KansasA vision for transportation infrastructure in the stateGetting started in public serviceTaking on the house majority leader mantleGoing out on Black Friday and Christmas EveOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC KansasChris Croft, Kansas State Representative, 8th District This podcast is brought to you by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Kansas. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

Host Scott Heidner meets with the previous and current ACEC presidents in Jeff McKerrow and Brett Letkowski to discuss the latest developments and the opportunity that lies ahead for the organization. On this episode we discuss:Transportation funding situationStopping some legislation is just as importantMoving back to in-person meetingsLegislative leadership and the upcoming governor raceKeeping the train on the tracks (figuratively speaking)Increasing college scholarshipsBringing back the emerging leaders programThe partnership with KSPEHow to be involved with ACECOther Resources:Learn more about ACEC Kansas Brett Letkowski, TranSystems, ACEC Kansas PresidentJeff McKerrow, Kimley-Horn, ACEC Kansas Past President This podcast is brought to you by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Kansas. This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information visit ictpod.net

The latest episode of The QBS Express features co-host Sara Clark with TranSystems and guest Chris Gutierrez, President of KC SmartPort. Listen in as we get an in-depth account of how SmartPort came to be, who it serves, what part of the market occupies its time and resources, and how Chris's interest in this industry was sparked by collecting beer cans at a young age!

The latest episode of The QBS Express features co-host Jeff Keller with Burns and McDonnell and KDHE Director of the Bureau of Water Tom Stiles. Listen in as we learn about his interest in water quality from a young age, how he found his way to the engineering field, the services he provides to members, and the interaction that involves with ACEC member firms.

The QBS Express is happy to welcome co-host Shawn Turner with Transystems and Representative Richard Proehl to the show! Tune in as we learn about Representative Proehl's interest in veterinary science and agriculture, his time in the 101st Airborne Division, working as a rodeo clown and bull rider, and most importantly the importance of good infrastructure investment!

The QBS Express welcomes Chad Bristow, Director of Facilities for the Kansas Board of Regents, to the show! Join us as we discover how a farm kid from Leavenworth County found his way from art to the world of facilities and design, the many ways Chad and the Board of Regents team partner with ACEC member firms, and some very interesting recent developments regarding the funding of university infrastructure!