The Civil Engineering Podcast Anthony Fasano, PE and Christian Knutson, PE

In this episode, I talk with Steven M. Rienks, P.E., PMP, director of engineering at American Surveying & Engineering, about the intricate world of the ASCE Code of Ethics, exploring its historical roots, pivotal importance, and its significant influence on the realm of civil engineering.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Steven:



What led to your interest in the American Society of Civil Engineers Code of Ethics?

Can you give a summary of how the ASCE Code of Ethics has developed and changed over the years?

How do you view the importance of the preamble of the ASCE Code of Ethics in guiding your ethical practices throughout your career?

How has the preamble of the ASCE Code of Ethics influenced your career?

When you reflect on the ASCE Code of Ethics and its impact on your career, do you prioritize the well-being of the five key stakeholders affected by your work?

How do you manage the diverse interests of various stakeholders to ensure the best possible outcomes as a civil engineer?

Do you think any of these areas are sometimes overlooked in engineering when prioritizing public health, safety, and welfare while considering clients, employers, peers, and the environment?

What are typical ethical challenges or dilemmas that civil engineers encounter?

How important do you believe the ASCE complaint form is for maintaining professional integrity in addressing ethical concerns that may arise in the field?

If a genuine ethical issue arises after submitting a complaint, would you report it to the appropriate local board for further action?

When encountering ethical dilemmas, where do you suggest professionals seek assistance or guidance, particularly in complex situations?

When you encounter an ethical complaint, should you understand how the company handles it from a human resources perspective?

How does the ASCE Code of Ethics support engineers in their professional growth and development?

What advice would you give to new aspiring civil engineers starting their careers?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Implementing the ASCE Code of Ethics in Professional Practices:





Steven's interest in the American Society of Civil Engineers Code of Ethics was sparked when he obtained and displayed version two of the code, received in 1980, in his offices for several years. Upon discovering a more recent version on the ASCE website presented in a simpler format, Steven reached out to ASCE to inquire about updating the code.

The ASCE Code of Ethics has evolved over the years, with the first version dating back to 1914, followed by a version from 1980, and the most recent one in 2020; however, he cannot provide specific details on the changes and development of the code since he was not involved in that committee.

Steven values the preamble of the ASCE Code of Ethics as it emphasizes essential principles such as creating safe infrastructure, treating everyone with respect and fairness, addressing societal needs, and improving quality of life, which have significantly guided his ethical practices throughout his career.

The preamble of the ASCE Code of Ethics has greatly influenced Steven's career by emphasizing principles like creating safe infrastructure, respecting individuals, addressing societal needs, and enhancing quality of life, and guiding his ethical decisions and conduct.

When reflecting on the ASCE Code of Ethics and its impact on his career, Steven prioritizes the well-being of the five key stakeholders affected by engineering work: society, the natural and built environment, the engineering profession, clients and employers, and peers.

In this episode, I talk with Dena Prastos, AIA, founder and CEO of Indigo River, about her journey in the AEC field and her specialization in waterfront architecture. She discusses the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry and the impact of growing up in Alaska on her career choices. Dena also talks about the opportunities and challenges in the Middle East and the future of waterfront architecture in the face of climate change.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Dena:



How did growing up in Alaska shape your decisions regarding waterfront development, given its environmental influence?

What challenges have you faced as a woman in founding and growing your business, and what advice would you offer to other women aiming to advance in their careers?

Can you discuss the opportunities you've encountered in waterfront projects in the Middle East, and how you became involved in them?

Can you enhance your communication skills by working in challenging or unfamiliar environments, such as different locations and atmospheres?

What advice do you have for architects and engineers looking to start or grow their businesses, based on your experience as a founder?

What upcoming trends or technologies should individuals interested in waterfront architecture consider for the industry's future?

What communication tips have proven effective for managing waterfront projects involving multiple parties like agencies, clients, and consultants?

How does diversity within your team contribute to the success and innovation of dynamic waterfront projects?

How does encountering individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives enhance excitement, interest, and open-mindedness for all involved?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Emerging Tech Is Revolutionizing Waterfront Architecture:





Growing up in Alaska, especially in Dena's environment, shaped her approach to waterfront development. Experiencing the rugged landscape firsthand taught her to prioritize sustainability and resilience while integrating advanced engineering and indigenous knowledge.

In navigating business as a woman, you will inevitably encounter biases and limited opportunities. To overcome these challenges and thrive, it's crucial to maintain confidence, actively seek out mentors for guidance, and assert yourself in various professional settings. Do not hesitate to challenge existing norms, stay true to your authentic self, and embrace diverse perspectives as valuable assets on your path to success.

Exploring Middle East waterfront projects provides valuable insights into engineering and culture. It starts with a desire to work abroad, leading to overseas assignments. Being involved with the Army Corps of Engineers offers regulatory insights beneficial for stateside waterfront projects, highlighting the value of diverse growth opportunities.

Working in diverse environments enhances communication skills. In architecture, clarity is vital, and such experiences emphasize the importance of being concise. Dealing with cultural differences encourages empathy and adaptability in communication. Using tools like sketches or body language becomes crucial for effective communication. Exposure to different environments sharpens communication skills for conveying ideas effectively.

For architects and engineers looking to start or grow their businesses, valuing relationships is crucial. Cultivating meaningful partnerships and mentorships provides valuable support and opportunities. Prioritize nurturing existing connections, ensuring alignment with the company's mission and values. Investing in team members is essential,

In this episode, I talk with Tyler Grau, P.E., traffic engineering department manager at Stanley Consultants, about the importance of creating pedestrian and bicycle-friendly urban zones, and the key factors and recommendations for making urban zones more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly, including street design, public safety, accessibility, and network compatibility.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Tyler:



What does it take to make a city pedestrian and bicycle-friendly, and are there any obstacles to achieving this?

Could you provide additional information about your involvement in the Park Avenue Road diet implementation project in Waterloo, Iowa?

Can you explain what steps were taken to make Park Avenue in Waterloo, Iowa, more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly?

What additional recommendations does the engineering team have regarding bike lanes and signals for the project?

How much does it cost to transform a corridor similar to the changes made to Park Avenue?

What lessons were learned from the implementation of bike lanes and signals on Park Avenue?

Could you discuss the findings of the post-assessment study conducted by the city and the MPO regarding the implementation of bike lanes and signals on Park Avenue?

Are the bike lanes less safe near the curb, and how do engineers balance safety and functionality when planning the next steps?

How can we effectively educate the public about the safer design and its functionality?

What are the upcoming plans of the city and the MPO to expand and attract more bicyclists to dedicated systems in downtown Waterloo following the assessment?

What are the main advantages of establishing dedicated pedestrian and bike corridors in smaller cities like Waterloo?

What opportunities or programs exist for cities seeking assistance to implement similar improvements in their urban infrastructure?

Do you have any final advice about making cities better for biking and walking?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Make Urban Zones More Pedestrian and Bicycle-Friendly:





Creating pedestrian and bike-friendly urban areas involves prioritizing infrastructure for walkers and cyclists over cars. This means designing safe, accessible, and connected streets, but it's expensive and faces resistance from the public and officials. Advocates are crucial for overcoming these challenges and making cities more inclusive and sustainable.

The Metropolitan Planning Organization and the city of Waterloo collaborated to make Park Avenue more pedestrian and bike-friendly. They reduced it from four lanes to three, added buffered bike lanes, and lowered the speed limit to 20 mph. By optimizing parking and creating left turn lanes, they improved safety and accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians, promoting sustainable transportation options and enhancing the urban environment.

Waterloo, Iowa, straddling the Cedar River, lacked connected trails despite its recreational network. Park Avenue was chosen for its potential to bridge these trails and parks, offering a cost-effective solution due to lower traffic volumes and ample pavement width.

Stanley Consultants played a pivotal role in enhancing cyclist safety by finalizing pavement markings, installing bicycle signals, and introducing leading intervals at intersections. They ensured dedicated bike lanes, added signs, and restricted vehicle turns to prevent conflicts, significantly improving safety along the corridor.

It's best to add bike lanes during road resurfacing projects when pavement markings are already being updated. This minimizes costs since you're already working on the road.

In this episode, I talk with Danielle Schroeder, P.E., ENV SP, transportation staff engineer at Gannett Fleming and student outreach director for WTS Philadelphia, about her passion for STEM outreach. She emphasizes the importance of inspiring the next generation of engineers and highlights the various formats of STEM outreach events, including classroom visits and tabling activities. Danielle also provides hands-on activities and resources and shares her experiences in STEM outreach.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Danielle:



What motivated you to take your first step into STEM outreach, and what inspired your involvement in this field?

What achievements and progress have you made in the field of STEM?

Can you discuss the significance of being proficient in STEM and sharing knowledge about it, especially for younger individuals who might have an interest in these fields?

Do engineers often overlook promoting the importance of their work, and is STEM outreach a way to showcase the value of engineering?

Can you share examples of diverse STEM outreach events you've come across and explain how they cater to various audiences?

How many STEM or outreach events do you typically participate in each year?

What characteristics do you believe contribute to making a STEM outreach event notably successful and memorable?

Can you provide innovative ideas, tools, or resources that have proven to be effective in hands-on STEM outreach activities?

How do you typically reach out to schools and events to establish connections?

Is there a specific moment or event in your STEM outreach journey that holds special significance for you?

What is the role of the student outreach director at WTS Philadelphia?

Could you provide additional details about your experience with the Princess with Power Tools calendar?

What advice do you have for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in STEM outreach?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Lead a Successful STEM Outreach Program:





Danielle joined the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) to lead volunteering programs, including classroom visits and community service. Motivated by her realization of the importance of early engineering exposure, Danielle aims to inspire others and bridge the awareness gap in engineering careers.

Danielle leads STEM outreach for WTS Philadelphia and previously managed K-12 programs for ASCE Philadelphia. Since March 2020, she's been giving virtual talks worldwide, sharing the excitement of STEM and her experiences as a civil engineer.

By encouraging STEM majors to connect with students, the goal is to break the "you can't be what you can't see" barrier by showcasing civil engineering as a viable career during classroom visits and tabling events. This is crucial due to the shortage of civil engineers needed for infrastructure projects.

Engaging in STEM outreach events goes beyond inspiring future civil engineers. The aim is to impart the importance of civil engineering, making students aware of the role it plays in everyday comforts like bridges and clean water. Even if they choose different careers, the goal is for them to appreciate the crucial work in maintaining and improving infrastructure.

In-person STEM outreach has two main formats: classroom visits with a brief presentation and hands-on activities, like the slender tower challenge, and tabling activities at science museums, featuring quick challenges such as the foil boat test. Both inspire students and educate adults about the significance of civil engineering.

Danielle has been part of 20 to 30 outreach events,

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Bellandra Foster, P.E., about finding one's passion and purpose in engineering and making career decisions based on those factors. She also shares insights on coaching, the overlooked costs of being a boss, and the importance of family and self-time.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Bellandra:



Can you share insights about the secret place of importance and its role in your life?

Has mastering the art of active listening, including the challenges of silence, played a significant role in guiding your path in both professional and personal aspects?

How would you advise someone to discover their passion and purpose, particularly in the field of engineering?

How has recognizing your passion and purpose influenced your career decisions and achievements?

Can you briefly discuss the importance of coaching from both the perspective of being a coach and having a coach?

How does playing for the home team apply to you professionally and personally, considering the secret place aspect you mentioned?

What are some frequently overlooked costs associated with being in a leadership position?

Why are family time and personal time important?

What last piece of advice would you offer to those striving for success in both their professional and personal lives?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Unlocking Potential by Finding Passion in Engineering:





Growing up in a religious setting, Bellandra stresses the importance of finding a quiet, spiritual space for guidance. Initially discussed in her success book, it has evolved into listening to God for direction. This space became crucial during her parents' passing and early business success, helping her make decisions in home, marriage, and business. Bellandra highlights the value of silent reflection in navigating life's challenges with spiritual guidance.

In business, discernment and prayer guide decision-making. Recognizing not every client or opportunity aligns, setbacks are seen as potential blessings for others, leading to active referrals to better-suited companies. The core principle is doing for others what one would want in return, encapsulating a thoughtful approach to business.

Bellandra's journey in engineering reflects a commitment to passion and purpose, navigating challenges and embracing joy in program management. Retirement isn't a priority as long as the work remains enjoyable. Recent recognition, including being named the Michigan State University distinguished Alumni in 2022, validates Bellandra's chosen path, affirming she is on the right track.

Knowing your passion and purpose is crucial for fulfilling your unique destiny. Trust that your path is guided by a higher purpose, enabling you to mentor and coach others by setting an example. Leading with honesty and integrity, acknowledging imperfections while striving to be a positive influence. If you're exploring coaching, remember that commitment is vital. Coaching involves personal action steps and a shared plan.

In your professional journey, mentors can play a vital role, even if you don't realize it. While coaching is an option, especially in areas like small business and life transitions, success depends on your commitment and effort. Coaching works best when you value your goals more than anyone else does.

To strike a balance between work and family life, consider delving into entrepreneurship, drawing inspiration from your professional network's insights into diverse industries. Optimize efficiency and family time by maintaining a home office. Juggling business growth and family priorities means playing for your home team,

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Paul Chinowsky about the critical significance of climate change resiliency in the industry and the intriguing transition from research to consulting. We also delve into the differences between tackling climate change resiliency in academia versus the industry, and shed light on the essential skills required to effectively address this pressing issue.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Paul:



When did you realize that your passion for addressing climate change would become your long-term career path?

Having moved from academia to industry, can you share the main differences you've noticed in how each sector deals with climate change?

How does your background in engineering and architecture prepare you for the specific challenges of climate change analysis?

What essential skills do upcoming engineers need to address climate change resiliency issues effectively?

How do civil engineers contribute to the environment compared to their counterparts in environmental science?

How do you stay current and adjust your skills as new scientific developments emerge, and what methods do you use to stay informed?

How do you handle controversies in climate change discussions, considering diverse perspectives and using your expertise to form arguments?

What are your predictions for the future intersection of civil engineering and climate change in the next decade?

What's your final advice for aspiring individuals looking to build a career in the ever-evolving and challenging field of climate change?



Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Building a Sustainable Future with Climate Change Resiliency in Civil Engineering:





Working on Alaska's coast, the impact of climate change hit home as entire villages faced erosion. This raised a key question about the vulnerability of coastal infrastructure. The excitement came from the convergence of diverse backgrounds to tackle climate change's multifaceted challenges. The crux of the profession lies in addressing new problems and making a real impact.

In academia, it's about theoretical questions like water supply. Consulting is hands-on, solving real-world problems like preventing floods and prioritizing investments. The shift includes addressing practical issues like energy needs for vulnerable populations. The key is the difference between theory and hands-on problem-solving, depending on personal interests.

Paul's background is a unique blend of architecture, engineering, and computing, providing a holistic understanding of how science affects the built environment. This rare combination, not as prevalent two decades ago, has empowered Paul to effectively address diverse global challenges.

In this generational shift, new industry entrants need more than just engineering skills. They should understand climate science, particularly data analysis, and collaborate effectively with diverse groups. Engineers now play a frontline role in driving change, requiring proficiency in communication and environmental science, and reshaping expectations for the next generation.

Addressing water runoff and climate change, the focus has shifted to fundamental design considerations. Understanding and explaining the environmental impact is crucial for prompt and credible client responses, even without being an expert.

As the team lead, your role is to be the central communicator, translating complex science into practical impacts on road design and budgets. Embrace the challenge and find satisfaction in being the intermediary between different aspects of the project.

Staying informed is vital in this field, with a daily commitment to reading new policies,