The Geotechnical Engineering Podcast Anthony Fasano, PE and Jared M. Green, PE

In this episode, I talk about the evolving opportunities in remote geotechnical work, highlighting how job roles are increasingly offering the flexibility to work from home or in the field. I also discuss the tools and technologies that are facilitating this transition.



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

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Utilize Technology for Remote Geotechnical Work:





Engineers can now work remotely on geotechnical projects using advanced computational tools to simulate soil and rock behavior. This allows detailed data analysis and modeling from home or remote offices.

Geotechnical project managers are mastering remote leadership, using digital tools to coordinate projects and ensure effective communication across locations. This keeps projects on track and within budget regardless of physical distance.

Geotechnical consultants provide expert advice and designing remotely, reducing the need for frequent site visits. Virtual meetings are now standard, marking a new era in geotechnical engineering.

Essential tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom facilitate seamless collaboration for remote geotechnical teams. Advanced geotechnical software, such as Plaxis, GeoStudio, and RocScience, enables engineers to perform complex tasks remotely, enhancing productivity.

Cloud platforms are vital for remote geotechnical work, enabling access to data and computational resources for efficient project handling and problem-solving.

Remote geotechnical work brings challenges like team cohesion and data security across time zones, but also offers opportunities for improved work-life balance, wider talent access, and reduced environmental impact.

In this exploration of remote geotechnical engineering, the undeniable evolution shapes a future without physical boundaries, promoting flexibility, technology, and sustainability for a dynamic and inclusive field.



More Details in This Episode…



About the Host: Jared M. Green, P.E., BC.GE, F.ASCE

Jared, originally from southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduated from Syracuse University’s College of Engineering in 2001 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He later went on to attain his M.S. in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Focus) from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Campaign, in 2002. In 2003, he began working in the New York City office of Langan. He has since become a Principal / Vice President and is one of the owners of this international land development engineering consulting firm. After 15 years at Langan, Jared moved to the Philadelphia office and is one of the geotechnical practice leaders in that office.



Jared is a consultant and team leader who also enjoys mentoring young engineers and first-generation college students. He has been instrumental in increasing the number of pre-college students interested in STEAM majors and fields. He strives to make complex engineering topics relatable and understandable to people new to the field and to people who are completely unfamiliar with engineering. Jared and his family currently reside in Flemington, New Jersey. He and his wife have three energetic, inquisitive, and awesome children. You can connect with Jared here.

Sources/References:

Slack

Microsoft Teams

Zoom

Plaxis

GeoStudio

RocScience

This Episode Is Brought to You by Tensar

Tensar, a division of CMC, is a world-leading manufacturer and provider of ground stabilization and soil reinforcement solutions. Our innovative geogrid technology has benefited thousands of civil construction and engineering projects around the world for over 50 years. With our Tensar+ design software, you can design for higher performance and with greater confidence.

In this episode, I talk with T. Matthew Evans, Ph.D., a professor at Oregon State University, about the influence of geotechnical engineering on everyday life and its future advancements with technology. Dr. Evans shares insights from his research on soil stability across various conditions and underscores the practical application of physics in geotechnical engineering. He also highlights changes in civil engineering education, like remote learning and artificial intelligence (AI).



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

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Matthew:



Why did you choose to specialize in geotechnical engineering within civil engineering, coming from a physics background, and how did you get here in your career?

How did your passion for civil engineering and physics influence your career path into academia?

Can you describe a recent project you worked on that illustrates how geotechnical engineering directly impacts our daily lives?

How do principles of physics factor into your geotechnical engineering research and teaching?

What is the most significant change you've observed in civil engineering education during your time as a professor?

How does your role at Oregon State University contribute to solving practical engineering challenges in the real world?

What role do you think technology will play in the future of geotechnical engineering?

What advice do you have for individuals pursuing careers in consulting or academia?



Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Unveiling the Secrets of Physics in Geotechnical Engineering:





Matt's journey into geotechnical engineering began unexpectedly during his civil engineering studies at the University of New Mexico. Initially unsure about the relevance of certain classes like statics, Matt's interest was sparked when a geotechnical professor named John Stormont recognized his potential and offered him a research opportunity that ignited his passion for the discipline.

In early engineering careers, gaining experience as a research assistant in physics or civil engineering is valuable. Collaborating with research-focused geotechnical engineers at firms can ignite a passion for research in design and construction, motivating some to pursue advanced studies even if they receive advice against it from experienced colleagues.

New research at Oregon State University has shown that native Oregon silts can liquefy under specific seismic conditions, challenging assumptions about their stability. This finding emphasizes the importance of re-evaluating geotechnical practices in Oregon to improve seismic resilience in future construction and retrofits.

In research, blending fundamental principles with practical methods in soil mechanics is essential due to its complexity. Similarly, in teaching, the goal is to equip students with a versatile toolkit of basic principles and applications, resembling how physics education emphasizes understanding and practical application over rote problem-solving.

In academia today, there's a trend toward using technology for flexible course delivery, including recorded or remote lectures. Civil engineers are increasingly turning to powerful tools like MathCAD, Python, or MATLAB for better design capabilities and transparent calculations, moving away from traditional tools like Excel.

Oregon State's civil engineering program prioritizes partnerships with local firms, contractors, and regulators like the Department of Transportation, enabling them to solve practical community challenges such as complex engineering issues and process improvements for 3D printing.

AI, especially with advancements in machine learning and GPUs, is becoming highly relevant to engineering design and pract...

In this episode, I reflect on our top 10 geotechnical engineering podcasts that resonate the most with our listeners. We explore groundbreaking discussions on new technologies and share inspiring stories of career development and engineering leadership.



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

Here Are the Top 10 Geotechnical Engineering Podcasts:





#10 - Episode 04: Joanna Smith, a talented young geotechnical engineer at AECOM, is making significant contributions to the field of geotechnical engineering. She shared her experiences and highlighted the impact she hopes to achieve in the engineering industry.

#9 - Episode 10: John R. Grillo, P.E., a project executive at Keller, talks about important ground improvement techniques. His detailed exploration of these techniques gave us valuable insights and knowledge.

#8 - Episode 01: This episode laid the groundwork for The Geotechnical Engineering Podcast. We discussed our goals and how we intend to support our community.

#7 - Episode 42: Christina Tipp, PG, CEG, a professional geologist from SHN, sheds light on the relationship between geological and geotechnical engineering. Christina's insights highlight the importance of this interdisciplinary understanding.

#6 - Episode 08: Seth Pearlman, P.E., D. GE, M.ASCE, president and CEO of Menard Group USA, shared his perspective on ground improvement techniques. Seth's expertise and case studies were a true learning experience.

#5 - Episode 07: Peggy Hagerty Duffy, P.E., D.GE, M.ASCE, president at Hagerty Engineering, Inc., offers valuable guidance on starting and growing a successful engineering firm. Peggy's advice on building client relationships was truly golden.

#4 - Episode 21: Mathew Picardal, P.E., facilitated collaboration between structural and geotechnical engineering, emphasizing teamwork and integration between the disciplines.

#3 - Episode 11: Andrew Burns, P.E., vice president of Engineering & Estimating for Underpinning & Foundation at Skanska, provided a roadmap for aspiring geotechnical engineers. His dedication to continuous learning and professional development was truly inspiring.

#2 - Episode 02: Kancheepuram N. Gunalan (Guna), P.E., the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 2020 National President and Senior Vice President at AECOM, provided a visionary perspective on the future of our field. His insights into the future of geotechnical engineering were enlightening.

#1 - Episode 14: Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero, Ph.D., P.E., a geotechnical project manager and laboratory manager at American Geotechnical & Environmental Services, Inc., inspired individuals to embrace new opportunities in their careers. Sebastian's personal journey and success stories resonated with many.



More Details in This Episode…



About the Host: Jared M. Green, P.E., BC.GE, F.ASCE

Jared, originally from southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduated from Syracuse University’s College of Engineering in 2001 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He later went on to attain his M.S. in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Focus) from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Campaign, in 2002. In 2003, he began working in the New York City office of Langan. He has since become a Principal / Vice President and is one of the owners of this international land development engineering consulting firm. After 15 years at Langan, Jared moved to the Philadelphia office and is one of the geotechnical practice leaders in that office.



Jared is a consultant and team leader who also enjoys mentoring young engineers and first-generation college students. He has been instrumental in increasing the number of pre-college students who are interested in STEAM majors and fields. He strives to make complex engineering topics relatable and understandable to people new to the field and to ...

In this episode, I talk about how inclusive urban design makes cities more accessible. It's about solving problems like sidewalk design and trees with universal principles. We need to engage communities and navigate laws to push for better standards. Ultimately, it's about doing what's right and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome.



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

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About the Best Practices for Inclusive Urban Design in Geotechnical Engineering:





Sidewalk designs are key for universal mobility. They need to be smooth, wide, and gently sloping for people in wheelchairs or with vision impairments to navigate easily. Tactile paving is essential for those with vision impairments to move around safely. These designs ensure everyone can participate fully in public life.

Urban trees can make sidewalks inaccessible due to their roots. Engineers can solve this by using root barriers and flexible pavements, making sure sidewalks remain accessible while keeping trees healthy. This reflects universal design principles, making spaces inclusive for everyone.

Inclusive urban design relies on engaging directly with people with disabilities. Geotechnical engineers should involve these communities from start to finish. By listening to their needs and ideas, engineers ensure their projects meet everyone's requirements.

Geotechnical engineers can advocate for better accessibility standards by staying updated on advancements. Showing the benefits of accessible projects can change attitudes towards inclusive urban development. Ultimately, designing for communities requires understanding their needs to create truly accessible spaces for all.

Creating inclusive cities is not just a technical challenge, but a moral duty. Geotechnical engineers can lead by prioritizing universal design, community engagement, and legal advocacy. Together, we can ensure everyone has equal access to urban opportunities.



More Details in This Episode…



About the Host: Jared M. Green, PE, BC.GE, F.ASCE

Jared, originally from southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduated from Syracuse University’s College of Engineering in 2001 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He later went on to attain his M.S. in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Focus) from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Campaign, in 2002. In 2003, he began working in the New York City office of Langan. He has since become a Principal / Vice President and is one of the owners of this international land development engineering consulting firm. After 15 years at Langan, Jared moved to the Philadelphia office and is one of the geotechnical practice leaders in that office.



Jared is a consultant and team leader who also enjoys mentoring young engineers and first-generation college students. He has been instrumental in increasing the number of pre-college students who are interested in STEAM majors and fields. He strives to make complex engineering topics relatable and understandable to people new to the field and to people who are completely unfamiliar with engineering. Jared and his family currently reside in Flemington, New Jersey. He and his wife have three energetic, inquisitive, and awesome children. You can connect with Jared here.

Sources/References:

Accessible Urban Design

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

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In this episode, we talk with Ashly Cabas, Ph.D., M.ASCE, assistant professor at North Carolina State University, about the impact of local soil conditions on ground shaking during earthquakes, and the importance of understanding this for safer infrastructure design in earthquake engineering. Dr. Cabas also highlights the tools and technologies used in seismic hazard assessment and the role of geotechnical extreme event reconnaissance in advancing research and practice.



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

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Ashly:



How do local soil conditions impact ground shaking during earthquakes and why is understanding this vital for ensuring safer infrastructure?

What's the most unexpected discovery you've encountered in your research regarding how soils or rocks behave under repeated loading?

What tools or technologies do you find most effective for assessing seismic hazards, and what methods do you rely on?

How do ground motion characteristics relate to the performance of civil infrastructure during earthquakes?

How does studying extreme events in geotechnical engineering help us learn and improve, and what are we discovering from this research?

What collaborative efforts have you seen during disaster recovery, considering the diverse factors impacting people rebuilding their lives?

What recent earthquake engineering advancements excite you and how do they impact your research?

How do you integrate your research findings into the classroom, and how do you anticipate it impacting your students?

How did you get involved with the earthquake engineering and seismology community alliance in Latin America and the Caribbean?

What final advice would you give to engineers aiming to make an impact in earthquake engineering and beyond?



Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Make a Difference in the Field of Earthquake Engineering:





Local soil conditions affect how much and how long the ground shakes during earthquakes. This is crucial for building safer infrastructure because it helps engineers understand the specific risks posed by different types of soil. By knowing these risks, engineers can design structures better equipped to withstand the shaking and reduce potential damage.

One surprising finding in seismic research is how ground motion intensity can vary depending on orientation. Understanding this relationship between orientation and ground motion properties is crucial for assessing seismic risks and improving infrastructure resilience.

To assess seismic hazards effectively, engineers use probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA), which combines data from various sources like nearby recordings and soil conditions. Supported by tools such as the USGS national seismic hazard model, PSHA provides a probabilistic understanding of ground motion intensity and helps identify critical factors for infrastructure resilience against earthquakes.

Ground motion characteristics directly affect how well civil infrastructure performs during earthquakes. Longer structures like bridges respond more to longer-period motion, while shorter, sturdier buildings resonate with higher frequencies. This understanding helps engineers design structures that can endure specific ground motions, ensuring better performance and resilience during seismic events.

Studying extreme events in geotechnical engineering, like reconnaissance missions, helps us learn and improve by offering insights beyond just data collection. We see how earthquakes affect communities differently, showing that social factors matter in engineering designs. Also, collaboration among experts from different fields during reconnaissance encourages a holistic problem-solving appr...

In this episode, we dive deep into a vital aspect of geotechnical engineering — how to build effective teams in Geotechnical Projects. We explore the intricate world of collaboration, uncover strategies for building and managing effective teams, and discuss how the synergy of multidisciplinary teams is essential for the success of complex geotechnical projects.



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

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Build Effective Teams in Geotechnical Projects:





In geotechnical engineering, teamwork isn't just good — it's essential. Analyzing soil, assessing risks, and planning lasting infrastructure need diverse expertise. Iconic structures stand strong thanks to collaboration. Every geotechnical project aims for highly effective teamwork.

Collaborative projects in engineering offer invaluable experiences. Building a strong team depends on effective communication and active listening. Regular check-ins, clear goals, and open feedback channels are essential. Encouraging a dialogue where ideas flow freely ensures that every voice is not only heard, but also highly valued.

Success in specialized fields, like geotechnical projects, requires more than skilled individuals. Thorough training ensures everyone understands the basics, promoting better communication and an appreciation for each team member's work.

For success in teamwork and leadership, encourage mentorship between experienced and newer team members. Effective leaders, acting as coaches, guide the team to common goals. Equip the team with strategies for constructive conflict resolution in a field where decisions have significant consequences.

Encouraging innovation and diversity in geotechnical projects leads to better solutions. Learning from individuals with different backgrounds is crucial. Multidisciplinary teams, with diverse skills and experiences, outperform a room filled only with geotechnical engineers. Focus on collaborative strategies for success.

To enhance multidisciplinary teamwork, engage in cross-disciplinary workshops, share knowledge regularly, and use integrated project management tools for seamless collaboration. Embrace cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, respecting diverse backgrounds and perspectives to strengthen teamwork and drive innovation.

Regular team-building activities are crucial for trust and camaraderie among geotechnical engineering teams. Project strength relies on a cohesive and adaptive team, one that is not just technically proficient but one that also understands each member's strengths and promotes open communication.



More Details in This Episode…

About the Host: Jared M. Green, P.E., BC.GE, F.ASCE

Jared, originally from southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduated from Syracuse University’s College of Engineering in 2001 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He later went on to attain his M.S. in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Focus) from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Campaign, in 2002. In 2003, he began working in the New York City office of Langan. He has since become a Principal / Vice President and is one of the owners of this international land development engineering consulting firm. After 15 years at Langan, Jared moved to the Philadelphia office and is one of the geotechnical practice leaders in that office.



Jared is a consultant and team leader who also enjoys mentoring young engineers and first-generation college students. He has been instrumental in increasing the number of pre-college students who are interested in STEAM majors and fields. He strives to make complex engineering topics relatable and understandable to people new to the field and to people who are completely unfamiliar with engineering. Jared and his family currently reside in Flemington,