Full Send Engineering

Matthew Macelli
  • 5.0 (4)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Welcome to Full Send Engineering, where we ditch the corporate polish and talk about what really happens on site, in design meetings, and on the frontlines of big projects. Hosted by Matt Macelli, this show dives into the stories, lessons, and laughs from the people who keep the industry moving, from engineers and project managers to designers and site crews. If you’ve ever tried to bridge the gap between theory and the real world, this podcast is for you. Grab a coffee (or a hard hat) and join us for unfiltered conversations about the work, the people, and the mindset behind building things

Episodes

  1. 09/12/2025

    From Rock Mechanics to Real-World Impact: David Oliveira on Curiosity and Engineering Excellence

    In Episode 3, Matt sits down with Dr David Oliveira, a respected geotechnical and rock mechanics specialist known for translating complex theory into practical engineering outcomes. With more than 25 years in academia and major project delivery, David has helped teams understand ground behaviour, improve modelling, validate assumptions and challenge the thinking behind “we’ve always done it this way.” This episode is packed with lessons for geotechs, tunnellers, designers and modellers who want to think deeper, work smarter and deliver engineering they are proud of. Additional Resources Visit our website: www.fullsendengineering.com Email Matt: matt@fullsendengineering.com Connect with David on LinkedIn If you enjoyed this episode please like, comment and subscribe. Join the Full Send Engineering community now! Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction to DavidHow Matt and David met at University of Wollongong (UOW)Bridging theory with real-world engineering [00:01:00] Early InspirationWhy he once disliked geotechTwo mentors who changed everything[ 00:02:00] Working Through UniversityIntern years in BrazilThe moment geotech finally clicked [00:14:00] Pivot to Rock MechanicsUnexpected PhD shiftAdapting to challenging new topics [00:15:00] First Job After PhDMoving to AustraliaLearning a new environmentChoosing growth over comfort [00:23:00] Challenging Old MethodsWhy “we’ve always done it this way” is dangerousMindset behind innovation [00:24:00] Shotcrete and Rock BoltsDesigning tunnel supportBalancing sustainability with performance [00:27:00] 3x to 5x Capacity BreakthroughThe modelling insight that changed tunnel support behaviour [00:28:00] Field Testing and ValidationBuilding real tunnel sectionsTesting to failureSetting new support standards [00:29:00] New Materials Becoming StandardFibre improvementsBetter performance across Sydney tunnels [00:30:00] Principles for Complex ModelsBeing approximately rightAligning modelling goals with real questions [00:31:00] Deformation vs Structural PerformanceWhy these two modelling goals need different approaches [00:34:00] Proving Your Model WrongThe discipline behind great modellingCommon mistakes to avoid [00:35:00] How to Document a Model ProperlyRecording assumptionsTracking changesProducing reproducible work [00:37:00] Structural Elements and Capacity ChecksElastic elementsExternal capacity checksEngineering judgement [00:39:00] Reviewing a ModelStarting with the reportSpotting major issues fast [00:42:00] Learning Through MistakesHow errors build intuitionDeveloping engineering judgement [00:43:00] Innovation and FailureBolt deformation limitsControlled failureAlways having a plan B [00:57:00] AI, TBM Data and AutomationSensors, face pressure and data overloadUsing scripting to understand complex tunnel data [00:59:00] AI and Scripting in Daily EngineeringPython, automation and building tools that save days of work [01:01:00] Machine Learning and Smarter DesignExtracting value from large datasetsTurning complexity into clarity [01:04:00] Curiosity and PassionWhy these traits build long-term career success [01:05:00] Pride in EngineeringSeeing your work builtUnderstanding the impact of good engineering [01:06:00] Final ThoughtsThe conversation that changes your pathMatt closes the episode

    1h 7m

  2. 24/11/2025

    The King Gopher: Leadership, Pressure and Purpose Underground with Argot Anson

    In Episode 2, Matt sits down with Argot Ansons. From the mines of Western Australia to the tunnels under Sydney, Argot has seen it all, from four-tonne rocks dropping at his feet to running teams of hundreds under pressure. In this episode, we go deep on what real leadership looks like when things get tough. We talk about pushing back against the boss to do what’s right, finding momentum on projects, and why every manager, from grad to director, is really a “king gopher” serving the people who actually build it. It’s straight talk from one of the most respected names in infrastructure. No fluff, no buzzwords, just Full Send lessons on people, purpose, and pressure. Additional Resources Visit our website Connect with Argot Email Matt: Matt@fullsendengineering.com Enjoyed this episode? Please rate, comment and follow so you never miss an episode - it really helps the show. Join the Full Send Engineering community and be part of the future of construction and engineering. Timestamps [00:00:00] Intro: Who Is Argot Matt introduces Argot and sets the tone [00:01:00] Early Adventures and Confidence How travel shaped his confidenceLearning to adapt and lead [00:05:00] Becoming a Gopher Underground Working as a miner before becoming an engineerA near miss that shaped his approach to safety [00:12:00] Leadership Under Pressure Staying in the detailHow pressure exposes a team’s structure [00:18:00] Mechanical Scaling The dangerous practice he fought to changeResistance from the old guardHow the change saved lives [00:23:00] Supported Ground Why it became non negotiableBringing mining safety into tunnelling [00:26:00] Mining to Civil Transition Precision requirementsTolerances and quality [00:31:00] High Performance Culture Culture as the multiplierThe difference between 50 percent and 120 percent effort [00:38:00] Clarity Beats Blame Resetting struggling teamsAsking the right questions [00:45:00] Working With Clients Transparency and trustTaking accountability [00:49:00] Safety and Productivity Why alignment mattersTeam momentum [00:55:00] Leadership Growth Learning from mistakesGetting involved early [01:01:00] High Stakes Project Lessons Decision making in dangerous environments [01:05:00] Advice for Young Engineers Ask questionsSeek exposureLearn through doing [01:09:00] Closing Thoughts What matters most in leadershipMatt wraps up Episode 2

    1h 10m

  3. 24/11/2025

    From Precast to Silicon Valley: Jeremy’s Full Send Journey Through Engineering and Tech

    In Episode 1, Jeremy sets the tone for the entire Full Send movement. From running a precast yard at 23 to stepping into the world of Silicon Valley construction tech, his story is packed with lessons about self belief, adaptability and making bold moves when the opportunity arrives. If you are exploring career growth, leadership, innovation or construction technology, this episode is the perfect starting point. Additional Resources Visit our website Connect with Jeremy Email Matt: matt@fullsendengineering.com Enjoyed this episode? Please rate, comment and follow so you never miss an episode - it really helps the show. Join the Full Send community as we explore the mindset and stories shaping engineering and construction. Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction to Full Send Engineering The meaning behind Full SendWhy Jeremy was the perfect first guest[00:03:00] Early Influences How his parents shaped his valuesThe lesson that changed how he saw his future[00:05:00] First Leadership Role Managing 60 workers at 23Learning accountability and riskFixing major safety challenges[00:09:00] Transition to Client Work Moving into sales and client engagementLearning value engineering on real projects[00:18:00] Leap to Shanghai Working in the middle of China’s construction boomHosting meetings with major global clientsOperating in high pressure environments at 20 years old[00:27:00] Discovering Construction Tech Using Bluebeam to work smarterRealising the future of digital workflows[00:35:00] Joining PlanGrid Leaving concrete for Silicon ValleyAdjusting to the startup lifestyleTech adoption on job sites[00:39:00] Autodesk Acquisition PlanGrid’s $875M saleBecoming a top performer at Autodesk[00:44:00] AI and Generative Design How AI will transform constructionThe future of digital engineering[00:50:00] Digital Twins and Accountability BIM and future defect trackingHow digital tools improve accountability[00:56:00] Advice for Young Engineers Start anywhereBack yourselfMake bold moves in your career[00:58:00] Jeremy’s Full Send Moment Leaving a safe career for PlanGridThe rewards of taking a big leap[00:59:00] Closing Thoughts Matt wraps up Episode 1What to expect next

    1 hr

  4. TRAILER

    Welcome to Full Send Engineering

    Welcome to Full Send Engineering - the podcast with real talk from real engineers. This is the show for engineers and professionals across all stages of their careers who are done with the corporate jargon and ready for genuine insights they can actually use. Host Matthew Macelli, a Chartered Civil Engineer with over 15 years of experience leading projects across Australia and beyond, pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to thrive in this industry. Each month, you’ll hear unfiltered conversations with engineers who’ve been there and done that - the wins, the setbacks and those pivotal moments that shaped their careers. We’ll dive into how real-world problems get solved and uncover the practical wisdom that can fast-track your own growth and decision-making. If you’re an engineer or someone aspiring to grow their career looking for honest stories, inspiration and fresh perspective from people who’ve walked the path before you - you’re in the right place.  Hit subscribe now so you never miss an episode! Connect with Matthew

    2 min

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to Full Send Engineering, where we ditch the corporate polish and talk about what really happens on site, in design meetings, and on the frontlines of big projects. Hosted by Matt Macelli, this show dives into the stories, lessons, and laughs from the people who keep the industry moving, from engineers and project managers to designers and site crews. If you’ve ever tried to bridge the gap between theory and the real world, this podcast is for you. Grab a coffee (or a hard hat) and join us for unfiltered conversations about the work, the people, and the mindset behind building things

Information

  • Creator
    Matthew Macelli
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    4
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Matthew Macelli
  • Show Website
    Full Send Engineering