English for Engineers

Olivia Augustin

Ever wished you had a Technical English + Business English teacher who’s an engineer as well? Well, you found her: civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, Olivia Augustin. Her speciality? Dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators. And all with an approach that won’t bore you like your high-school English studies, will have you enjoying learning the suckiest language in the world, and crush that inner perfectionist to move forward so perfectly easy + efficiently. Tune in, get inspired, and get ready to learn from industry professionals worldwide. On this podcast, you’ll find a mix of Olivia’s chalk talks and practical tips on language learning, Technical + Business English, the cultural component of international business communication, and interviews with communication specialists and people working in STEM in general. Each episode is designed to give you unique insights and broaden your horizon to the contrasting realm that is global engineering culture. For more details about the podcast, check: https://www.marcode.org/blog/037 Connect with Olivia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-d-augustin/ Want to be a guest on Olivia's podcast or invite Olivia as a guest on yours? Send an inquiry to info@marcode.org

  1. E23 Going Dutch (Confidence in Language Learning) - with Rebecca van Raamsdonk

    28 JUL

    E23 Going Dutch (Confidence in Language Learning) - with Rebecca van Raamsdonk

    Ever feel confident in your field, but not in your language? This episode of English for Engineers dives into how to fix that. I’m joined by Rebecca van Raamsdonk, founder of NABU Academy, to talk about what really works for language learning at the advanced level — especially for ambitious professionals like you. We unpack why confidence often matters more than fluency, how to actually feel at home in a new language, and why grammar is the foundation — but never the whole house. Rebecca shares real-world strategies for breaking past the textbook, simplifying complex grammar, and using podcasts as your secret language weapon. Whether you’re learning Dutch, English, or any other language for work, this episode will change how you think about language, mistakes, and real progress.   IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: How feeling “at home” in a language boosts clarity, confidence, and connection Why confidence > fluency when it comes to high-stakes communication Simple ways to integrate language learning into your daily routine — no flashcards required How to reframe mistakes as growth markers (not failures) Why speaking regularly — even imperfectly — builds real, lasting confidence     The English for Engineers podcast is for engineers and technicians who want to communicate clearly, sound professional, and finally stop translating in their heads. It’s packed with real-world tips, cross-cultural insights, and practical ways to turn Technical and Business English into a tool you actually like using.     RESOURCES AND LINKS Free Coaching Resources (Rebecca): Masterclass: From Insecure to Fluent (B2/C1 Dutch)   Free Learning Resources (Olivia): Olivia’s Freebies for Engineers   Courses + Templates Technical English Group Course: for engineers ready to lead meetings, explain designs, and stop second-guessing their words. Emails for Engineers Template Pack: real emails you can copy and paste into your next update or request. Missed last week’s episode? Catch Ep #022 with Saskia Slotboom, where we explore authentic leadership for technical minds. CONNECT WITH OLIVIA  Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English as a 2nd language and Business English teacher. With her one-on-one lessons and group courses, she teaches non-native English-speaking engineers the kind of technical English that gets the job done.    Work with me: marcode.org/solutions Get the newsletter: marcode.org/newsletter LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin Instagram: @_marcode_ CONNECT WITH REBECCA Founder of Nabu Academy: Dutch for advanced learners (B2–C1).   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-van-raamsdonk/ Company Website: http://www.nabuacademy.nl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nabuacademy/

    55 min
  2. E22 Authentic Leadership for Technical Minds - with Saskia Slotboom

    24 JUN

    E22 Authentic Leadership for Technical Minds - with Saskia Slotboom

    In this episode of the English for Engineers podcast, host Olivia Augustin speaks with Saskia Slotboom, a coach and trainer for professionals in STEM fields. They discuss the importance of soft skills, particularly emotional intelligence, in engineering careers. Saskia shares her journey from engineering to coaching, emphasizing the need for engineers to develop interpersonal skills to succeed in their roles. The conversation also touches on cultural differences in communication and the significance of feedback in personal growth. Olivia and Saskia explore the critical role of communication in engineering leadership. They discuss the challenges engineers face in multicultural teams, the importance of building trust, and the need for emotional intelligence in technical fields. The episode emphasizes the transition from technical roles to coaching, the shift from perfectionism to authenticity, and the significance of visibility and self-promotion in engineering careers. They also touch on the complexities of maturity in leadership and the necessity of understanding different communication levels. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL HEAR ABOUT The need for engineers to develop soft skills. How engineers can enhance their emotional awareness through practice. Understanding personal triggers helps in managing responses. Why slowing down to reflect can lead to better communication.     The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds improve their communication skills and provide them with interesting facts so that Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.   RESOURCES AND LINKS Free Coaching Resources (Saskia): https://www.saskiaslotboom.nl/download-reflectie-tool/ https://www.saskiaslotboom.nl/download-reflection-tool/   Free Learning Resources (Olivia): https://www.marcode.org/freebies And also check out the Emails for Engineers template package to simplify your project communication with engineer-written, ready-to-use English email templates. Look into the Technical English Group Course for ambitious engineers, learn to communicate clearly with your clients, stakeholders, and subcontractors, and understand the logic behind technical English. Catch up with English for Engineers episode #021 with Johan Bell, an experienced technical consultant with a focus on practical solutions and a strong affinity with Systems Engineering & Asset Management.  CONNECT WITH SASKIA SLOTBOOM A coach and trainer for professionals in STEM fields. In her coaching, she specializes in ‘soft skills’: communication, influencing, public speaking, and (personal) leadership.   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saskiaslotboom/ Company Website: http://www.saskiaslotboom.nl Free Coaching Resources: https://www.saskiaslotboom.nl/download-reflectie-tool/ https://www.saskiaslotboom.nl/download-reflection-tool/ CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English as a 2nd language and Business English teacher. With her one-on-one lessons and group courses, she teaches non-native English-speaking engineers the kind of English that gets the job done.    Work with me: marcode.org/solutions Get the newsletter: marcode.org/newsletter LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin Instagram: @_marcode_

    1h 3m
  3. E21 Spare The Details - with Johan Bel

    31 JAN

    E21 Spare The Details - with Johan Bel

    In this episode of English for Engineers, I take a deep dive into project communication with Johan Bel, an experienced technical consultant with a focus on practical solutions and a strong affinity with Systems Engineering & Asset Management. He’s mainly active in industrial automation (hardware & software) and instrumentation throughout the entire life cycle, with almost 20 years of experience collaborating with various (professional) disciplines at all levels of the organization.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL HEAR ABOUT Communication challenges in interdisciplinary teams The cultural diversity in the Netherlands and its direct impact on communication. The complexity of Systems Engineering. And why ‘Spare the details’ will be the best advice you’ll ever get.   The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds improve their communication skills and provide them with interesting facts so that Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.   RESOURCES AND LINKS Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to simplify your project communication with engineer-written, ready-to-use English email templates. Look into the Technical English Group Course for ambitious engineers, learn to communicate clearly with your clients, stakeholders, and subcontractors, and understand the logic behind technical English. Catch up with English for Engineers episode #020 with Cathy Intro to learn about how neurodivergent engineers need a different approach when learning languages.     CONNECT WITH JOHAN BEL Cathy Intro is an entrepreneur and a certified Professional Neurolanguage Coach®. She hosts the podcast My Polyglot Life en français to help upper intermediate and advanced learners study French efficiently and with joy. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johan-bel Company Website: https://ingenieursgroepnederland.nl/ CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English as a second language teacher. With her one-on-one lessons and group courses, she teaches non-native English-speaking engineers the kind of English that gets the job done.    Work with me: marcode.org/solutions Get the newsletter: marcode.org/newsletter LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin Instagram: @_marcode_

    35 min
  4. E20 Neurolinguistic Language Coaching and its Advantages for Engineers - with Catherine Intro

    13/12/2024

    E20 Neurolinguistic Language Coaching and its Advantages for Engineers - with Catherine Intro

    In this episode of English for Engineers, Catherine Intro and I ​​take a look at Neurolanguage Coaching. Join us as we unpack not only Neurolinguistics but also the quirks of 'Quebeck-English', and how adult engineers learn languages differently.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN Interesting aspects of Neurolinguistics and how it empowers adult language learners, especially systematic thinkers like engineers about cultural differences in language learning The difference in workplace dynamics: French vs. Canadian     The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds improve their communication skills and provide them with interesting facts so that Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.   RESOURCES AND LINKS Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to simplify your project communication with engineer-written, ready-to-use English email templates.   Look into the Technical English Group Course for ambitious engineers, learn to communicate clearly with your clients, stakeholders, and subcontractors, and understand the logic behind technical English.   Catch up with English for Engineers episode #019 to get insights on the North American Eco-Innovation Network provided by Dr. Omar Chavez     CONNECT WITH CATHERINE INTRO Cathy Intro is an entrepreneur and a certified Professional Neurolanguage Coach®. She hosts the podcast My Polyglot Life en français to help upper intermediate and advanced learners study French efficiently and with joy. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-introligator/ Website: https://mypolyglotlife.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathy.intro/ CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English as a second language teacher. With her one-on-one lessons and group courses, she teaches non-native English-speaking engineers the kind of English that gets the job done.    Work with me: marcode.org/solutions Get the newsletter: marcode.org/newsletter LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin Instagram: @_marcode_

    50 min
  5. E19: The Eco-Innovation Network: CEC, JPAC, and TLCAN's environmental legacy

    23/10/2024

    E19: The Eco-Innovation Network: CEC, JPAC, and TLCAN's environmental legacy

    In this episode of English for Engineers, Dr. Omar Chavéz Alegía and I ​​dive into the Eco-Innovation Network and explore the significant roles of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) and the Joint Public Advisory Committee (JPAC) within the context of the North American Free Trade Agreement (TLCAN/NAFTA). Join us as we unpack how these organizations have shaped environmental policies and promoted sustainability across North America. IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL Discuss the purpose and impact of the Eco-Innovation Network. Explore the roles of CEC and JPAC in environmental cooperation. Learn about the historical context of TLCAN/NAFTA and its influence on environmental policy. Highlight key eco-innovation initiatives supported by these organizations.     The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds improve their communication skills and provide them with interesting facts from side industries so that Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.   RESOURCES AND LINKS Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to simplify your project communication with engineer-written, ready-to-use English email templates. Look into the Technical English Group Course for ambitious engineers, learn to communicate clearly with your clients, stakeholders, and subcontractors, and understand the logic behind technical English. Catch up with English for Engineers episode #016 to learn live lessons from Arnold Schwarzenegger.   Links mentioned in this episode: The Eco-Innovation Network: http://ecoinnovationnetwork.org/ The CEC: http://www.cec.org/ The JPAC: http://www.cec.org/about/joint-public-advisory-committee/ The TMEC (formerly TLCAN): https://www.gob.mx/t-mec     CONNECT WITH DR. CHAVEZ Dr. Omar Chavéz Alegría is the department head of the Facultad de Ingeniería at the Autonomous University of Queretaro, where he fills the roles of a professor and researcher.   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omar-chavez-705004a1/ University website: https://ingenieria.uaq.mx/index.php/oferta-educativa/maestrias/maestria-en-arquitectura/125-curriculums/877-dr-omar-chavez-alegria CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English as a second language teacher. Her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.   Work with me: marcode.org/solutions Get the newsletter: marcode.org/newsletter LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin Instagram: @_marcode_

    44 min
  6. E18: Linguistics and Engineering in Technical Translation

    23/08/2024

    E18: Linguistics and Engineering in Technical Translation

    In this episode of English for Engineers, I talk to Alice Miozzo Zana and Pierre-Yves Zana from Tranzana Translations. Alice & Pierre-Yves are an international couple working in the language industry as freelance translators. Alice is an Italian technical and marketing translator, while PY is a French engineer turned technical translator. They work hand in hand to help industrial and tech companies overcome their linguistic challenges.   Join us in this episode as we learn how the fusion of engineering and linguistics enables them to deliver trustworthy translations by effectively bridging the gap between technical accuracy and linguistic fluency. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’ll LEARN What are the advantages of working with small translation offices. How differently Italians and French approach formalities. And how the combination of linguistic expertise and engineering knowledge contributes to the trustworthiness and accuracy of your translations.   The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds improve their communication skills and provide them with interesting facts from side industries so that Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.   RESOURCES AND LINKS Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to simplify your project communication with engineer-written, ready-to-use English email templates as well as a PDF guide that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending.   Catch up with English for Engineers episode #017 to learn about the importance of a global mindset for engineering professionals.   Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Technical English and international business communication so that talking in English will become their new superpower.     CONNECT WITH TRADZANA TRANSLATIONS Alice and Pierre-Yves work hand in hand to help industrial and tech companies overcome their linguistic challenges.   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amiozzo/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/pyzana/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tradzana_translation/ Website: https://www.tradzana.com/en-home CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer. Her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.   Work with me: marcode.org/solutions Get the newsletter: marcode.org/newsletter LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin Instagram: @_marcode_

    32 min
  7. E17: Developing a Global Mindset for Engineering Professionals

    02/08/2024

    E17: Developing a Global Mindset for Engineering Professionals

    In this episode of English for Engineers, I talk to Kate Dahl, a career consultant for internationals in Denmark who helps them integrate into the Danish labour market.   Join us in this episode as we discuss what it means to have a global mindset and how engineering professionals can develop such a mindset.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’ll LEARN What it means to have an international mindset and Why that is essential for engineering professionals. How engineers can develop such an attitude, and If English language proficiency does play a role in said mindset.     The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds improve their communication skills and provide them with interesting facts from side industries so that Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.   RESOURCES AND LINKS Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to simplify your project communication with engineer-written, ready-to-use English email templates, as well as a PDF guide that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending. The Culture Map by Erin Meyer: I mention this book during the episode and regularly refer to it during my lessons. It is an absolute 'must read' for everyone doing business internationally or living abroad.   Catch up with English for Engineers episode #016 to learn live lessons from Arnold Schwarzenegger.   Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Technical English and international business communication so that talking in English will become their new superpower.     CONNECT WITH KATE DAHL Kate Dahl’s agency, Career Denmark, empowers expats to land their dream jobs in Denmark. She offers career guidance and workshops on the Danish labour market. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/careerconsultant4internationals Website: www.careerdenmark.dk CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer. Her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.   Work with me: marcode.org/solutions Get the newsletter: marcode.org/newsletter LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin Instagram: @_marcode_

    51 min
  8. E16: Three Lessons from Arnold Schwarzenegger

    18/10/2023

    E16: Three Lessons from Arnold Schwarzenegger

    In this Episode, Olivia talks about 3 life lessons engineers who learn English as a second (or third) language, can learn from the Austrian oak, Arnold Schwarzenegger. As an expat, Arnold was always mocked for his thick Austrian accent, mocked for his appearance, and his ambitions. In this episode, you'll learn: that he was not afraid to ask for help. And he was willing to learn off anyone. Even took advice from a ballet teacher to improve his performance on stage. Tip: Ask your colleagues and friends to help you learn English. that he knew about the power of a positive environment. As bodybuilder, actor, and politician he brought people together: to train together, to be inspired by each other. Tip: Connect with fellow engineers who are on international projects or who are expats as well. that he ignored the naysayers. Have you ever had one of those teachers tell you that you have no language talent whatsoever? Ignore them. As an engineer, you're wired to be good at English.   The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds to improve their communication skills so Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower. RESOURCES AND LINKS: 1. Read more about why engineers are good at learning English here: https://www.marcode.org/blog/052 2. Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you streamline your email writing efforts (with more than 30 English email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).   Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Technical English and international business communication so that talking in English will become their new superpower.     Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer. Her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.   Work with me: marcode.org/solutions Get the newsletter: marcode.org/newsletter LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin Instagram: @_marcode_

    3 min

About

Ever wished you had a Technical English + Business English teacher who’s an engineer as well? Well, you found her: civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, Olivia Augustin. Her speciality? Dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators. And all with an approach that won’t bore you like your high-school English studies, will have you enjoying learning the suckiest language in the world, and crush that inner perfectionist to move forward so perfectly easy + efficiently. Tune in, get inspired, and get ready to learn from industry professionals worldwide. On this podcast, you’ll find a mix of Olivia’s chalk talks and practical tips on language learning, Technical + Business English, the cultural component of international business communication, and interviews with communication specialists and people working in STEM in general. Each episode is designed to give you unique insights and broaden your horizon to the contrasting realm that is global engineering culture. For more details about the podcast, check: https://www.marcode.org/blog/037 Connect with Olivia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-d-augustin/ Want to be a guest on Olivia's podcast or invite Olivia as a guest on yours? Send an inquiry to info@marcode.org

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