The Structural Engineering Podcast

In Episode 104, we dig into the world beneath our buildings, foundation systems. From shallow footings to deep foundations, we explore how engineers match soil behavior, structural demands, and constructability to choose the right system for the job.We break down the fundamentals of spread footings, mats, piles, drilled shafts, and ground‑improvement‑based systems. You’ll hear how load paths shift depending on soil conditions, why “simple” footings aren’t always simple, and what engineers should watch for when coordinating with geotechnical reports, contractors, and owners.Tune in to hear how foundation systems balance performance, risk, and practicality — and why the most important part of a building is often the part no one ever sees. Structural Trivia:Sign up for our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI-Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder).  Reach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin Sponsor:This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance; affordable, engineer-friendly liability coverage starting at just $29/month, designed to give structural engineers the protection they need with zero hassle. Go to NextInsurance.com/sepodcast and get a free quote today!

In Episode 103, we dive into space frames, cable nets, and ETFE membrane systems — the lightweight structural forms that make some of today’s most iconic buildings possible. From the geometry that drives space frame efficiency to the tension‑based behavior of cable nets and the surprising performance of ETFE, we break down how these systems work, where they shine, and what engineers need to consider when designing them.Tune in to hear how these structures balance form, efficiency, and constructability — and why “lightweight” doesn’t mean simple. Structural Trivia:Sign up for our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI-Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder).  Reach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin Sponsor:This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance; affordable, engineer-friendly liability coverage starting at just $29/month, designed to give structural engineers the protection they need with zero hassle. Go to NextInsurance.com/sepodcast and get a free quote today! 

In Episode 102, we chat with Scott Collins and Mike Riccitiello about the role of structural engineers in emergency response. From the first phone call to on-site triage, we break down how engineers gather information, assess danger, and make judgment calls while coordinating with other emergency response officials. Tune in to hear real stories and learn how emergency response work changes the way you design long after the crisis is over.Links & Resources:Scott Colllins: [email protected] Riccitiello: [email protected] Episode 85 - Long Spans - Short Timelines, Mr. Beast's EngineerStructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd Structural Trivia:Sign up for our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI-Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder).  Reach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin Sponsor:This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance; affordable, engineer-friendly liability coverage starting at just $29/month, designed to give structural engineers the protection they need with zero hassle. Go to NextInsurance.com/sepodcast and get a free quote today!

Celebrating a milestone! This week marks our 100th episode of The Structural Engineering Podcast.We're reflecting on the journey from our very first episode to where we are today. More importantly, we're thanking you, our incredible community of listeners, for your support.Join us for this lighthearted celebration as we dive into a special Q&A segment.Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): theengineeringpodcast.com/structuredStructural Trivia:Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI-Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder) HereReach out to us:InstagramLinkedin

In this episode of the Structural Engineering Podcast, we sit down with the founders of CalcBook, Nick and Peter, a tech startup that’s rethinking how engineers document and share structural calculations. What started as a frustration with scattered spreadsheets and inconsistent workflows has grown into a powerful, cloud-based platform built by engineers for engineers.We dive into the full journey:How the idea for CalcBook was bornThe leap from side project to startupChallenges of building a technical product for a technical audienceLessons learned from launching and growing in a niche industryThe future of digital tools in structural engineeringWhether you’re an engineer, entrepreneur, or just curious about how innovation happens in our field, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and inspiration.Links & Resources:Try CalcBook: calcbook.com. Use promo code SEPOD for 50% off your first three months!StructurEd (our free study tool): theengineeringpodcast.com/structuredNCSEA Salary Survey: LINKStructural Trivia:Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI - Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder)  Here Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedIn

This episode is brought to you by CalcBook — the modern way to perform and document your structural calculations. Visit calcbook.com and use promo code SEPOD for 50% off your first three months. Episode Summary:In this episode of The Structural Engineering Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Musgrove from Kramer Gehlen & Associates to dive into the world of post-tensioned (PT) concrete design. Ryan walks us through the fundamentals of PT systems, their advantages over conventional reinforced concrete, and what engineers should consider when designing and detailing these systems in the field.  We discuss everything from tendon layout and serviceability checks to construction sequencing, stressing operations, and long-term deflection control. Ryan also shares some of the most common mistakes he sees in PT design and how clear communication between the engineer, detailer, and contractor can make or break a project.  Whether you’re new to PT or have years of experience designing slabs and podium decks, this episode offers insights you can apply to your next project.   Topics Covered:- Basics of post-tensioned concrete and how it differs from mild-reinforced systems  - Design considerations for slab geometry, tendon layout, and anchorage zones  - Common field challenges during stressing and construction  - Strategies for controlling cracking, camber, and long-term deflection   About Our Guest:  Ryan Musgrove, P.E., is a Senior Project Manager with Kramer Gehlen & Associates, where he focuses on building design across a range of materials, including post-tensioned concrete and steel systems. His experience bridges design and construction, bringing a practical approach to complex structural systems.   Resources Mentioned: - PTI Design and Construction of Post-Tensioned Slabs  - ACI 318 provisions for prestressed concrete  - www.kramergehlen.com  Structural Trivia:Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI - Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder)  Here  Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedIn

In this episode, we sit down with Adam Jones from SPEC Toolbox, a company reshaping how engineers approach mass timber design. From CLT panels to connection detailing, Spec Toolbox offers a suite of digital tools that streamline workflows, reduce errors, and bring clarity to the often chaotic world of timber documentation.We explore the challenges of designing with mass timber, navigating code compliance, coordinating across disciplines, and managing ever-evolving changes and how Spec Toolbox helps engineers stay ahead. Whether you're deep in the weeds of timber detailing or just curious about the future of structural tools, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at innovation in action.Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI - Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder)  Here  Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedIn

Is AI about to redesign the future of structural engineering? In Episode 96, the Structural Engineering Podcast sits down with a leading AI expert to explore how artificial intelligence is shaking up the AEC industry. From automated design to predictive modeling, we dive into the tech trends that could transform how engineers work, build, and innovate. Whether you're curious, skeptical, or already experimenting with AI tools, this episode is your starting blueprint for what’s coming next.Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI - Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder)  Here  Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedIn

In this episode, we test our knowledge of an AISC design document, Design Guide #1 - Base Plate Connections. This is the first DG we read as we entered the working world, and we think it's worthwhile to revisit it occasionally.Want to look at all the guides available? https://www.aisc.org/publications/design-guides/Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI - Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder)  Here or belowhttps://forms.gle/2JRqawfiGn1dWy3g9 Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]

In this week's episode, we discuss famous structural engineering failures. From the Hyatt Regency Collapse to Ronan Point, these instances have been crucial in helping us develop our profession and design safer, more appealing structures for the world. Creating the built environment inevitably involves mistakes; they only become a complete loss when we fail to learn from them. Structural Trivia:Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI - Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder)  Here  Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedIn

In this episode, we discuss the seismic systems we've used and have dreamed of using, as well as the new systems and latest research. This is a pretty fun overview of the seismic systems available to us, so take a listen and check out all the links below.Dampers Explanation (From Taylor Devices) Episode 14Mettalic Yield Damper - Wild Sustainability meets High Seismic Mast FramesStructural Trivia:Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI - Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder)  Here  Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedIn

This episode we are talking with Melissa Lanning, an architect with Infusion Architects based out of Colorado. Melissa is the first architect we've asked to be on the show, it took 5 years of practice but we're ready to talk with the most common client for structural engineers, and learn how we can navigate the structural/architectural work dynamic better to get the best final project. You can find Infusion Architects: HereAlso, we are starting a structural trivia, Just one email a week, 6 questions total. Generally referencing code books, aiming for things we should have memorized anyway. A great way to stay sharp, don't just be the best in your office, prove it. Here or below:https://forms.gle/2JRqawfiGn1dWy3g9 Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]

This week is a conversation with Kee Leung. Kee is the director of Odace engineering, a firm in London that specializes in efficient structural systems, both in design and development. Take a look at the Website here: https://www.odace.co.uk/A weird instagram link that shows this beam: HereAlso, we are starting a structural trivia, One email a week, roughly 6 questions total. Facts only, generally referencing code books. A great way to stay sharp, don't just be the best in your office, prove it. Here or belowhttps://forms.gle/2JRqawfiGn1dWy3g9 Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]

This episode we get to talk with Amanda Dean, one of the group of Structural Engineers diving in to the equality of our profession and making sure it is enjoyed and pursued by the most qualified individuals to make a better built environment.Take a look at the SE3 page here: http://www.se3project.org/A great SE3 video as an introduction: HereThe TED talk we mentioned: Here Also, we are starting a structural trivia, Just two emails a week, 6 questions total. Facts only, generally referencing code books. A great way to stay sharp, don't just be the best in your office, prove it. Here or belowhttps://forms.gle/2JRqawfiGn1dWy3g9 Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]

This episode Zach and Max discuss the 5 most important building to them in the last 5 years, and under construction currently. We have a lot of great technical talks coming up or being edited as we speak, but dive in as we get back to our favorite hobby.Also, we are starting a structural trivia, Just two emails a week, 6 questions total. Facts only, generally referencing code books. A great way to stay sharp, and not just be the best in your office, you can prove it. Here or belowhttps://forms.gle/2JRqawfiGn1dWy3g9Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]

This week we get to continue our education in to UHPC with a discussion with Joe Bunkers from Gage Brothers. Gage Brothers is a group of precast experts helping move the needle on UHPC production and use, take a peak at the links below for a very cool project that comes up in our conversation, and reach out to if you have any questions at all.Steel District redevelopment projecthttps://gagebrothers.com/Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]

This weeks episode is about one of the most unique materials we have had in a while. Now you may say this is concrete, which we've been pretty good at since 1300 BC, and while that isnt incorrect, we say its so much more than stone, clay, and limestone from 3300 years ago, this is Ultra High Performance! So sit back and let us ask the dumb questions while we learn about UHPC, the many advantrages, and where we might see it in the future.Fun Links:FHA Introduction to UHPCPCI PresentationReach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]

We are lucky enough to have one more episode with Scott Johnson this week. Scott was our primary host at Louisiana Pacific and works in the construction services sector. We had a short conversation with Scott about his career path and quickly decided we wanted to hear more. From the Marines to teaching Masonry design and finally wood elements, It seems Scott has seen it all, so join in, and I have a feeling you'll take some good lessons away from this conversation. Check out Louisiana Pacific products here: https://lpcorp.com/Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Structural Engineering Podcast! Today, we have the pleasure of chatting with Scott Collins, an innovative engineer whose remarkable work caught our attention in a recent article in Modern Steel. Join us as we delve into the diverse projects Scott is involved in, and don't hesitate to share any questions you have for him.Also, The structural Python Course is getting so close to launch. If you're interested in joining in, or learning more, the course will only be available to those on the email list, so head to https://www.structuralpython.com/ to check it out. And, Connor put together a great video highlighting some of the advantages of being able to create your own calculation software so take a look at that HERE to spark some problem solving creativity.Mr. Beast Dominos (This is different knowing an engineer was involved):https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bx-lGhBgOQUPython Link: podcast.structuralpython.comModern Steel Magazine: https://www.aisc.org/globalassets/modern-steel/archives/2022/april2022.pdfReach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]

This episode of the structural engineering podcast is a showdown of epic proportions, BRACE yourself, or maybe reserve a MOMENT to listen to the show? Zach and Max compete for the best R=3 system and discuss where they hold advantages. So pick your team, and join in.And, We're getting much closer to the launch of connors course (Episode 77), I'll certainly be joining in and I even get the chance to learn a little python for this episode to help team BF win. So check out his link below. https://www.structuralpython.com/Reach out to us:InstagramLinkedInEmail: [email protected]