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

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

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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,

In this episode, we talk with Leonard Sands, Global Business Line Director for Land at Fugro, about his extensive career journey, the evolution, and innovations in land site characterization and geological data gathering.



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

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Leonard:



What notable advancements have you observed in the field of land characterization and geological data gathering?

Reflecting on your experiences, which project stands out as the most memorable to you?

How have the evolved non-intrusive diagnosis techniques impacted the industry?

Can you elaborate on the role and significance of digital models and forecasting in today's geotechnical engineering?

Which strategies and technologies have proven pivotal in enhancing data quality for land site characterization?

What do you perceive as the major challenges in large-scale geotechnical projects, and how do you approach managing them?

How do you manage scope creep and ensure timely delivery in projects with optimistic time frames?



Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Land Site Characterization: 





In geotechnical work, relying on traditional methods often causes delays and uncertainty. A more effective approach involves the early use of 3D scanning and seismic technology, providing a detailed ground model for informed decisions about foundations. This upfront strategy saves time and money, bringing transformative changes to the industry.

In demanding projects, geotechnical experts face intense pressure. Within 48 hours on site, they swiftly investigate, test, and analyze, ensuring a safe foundation for operations. This involves drilling boreholes, interpreting data within 12 hours, and confidently predicting foundation performance. The stakes are high as they communicate findings, putting their reputation on the line. It's a challenging and impactful experience in the geotechnical field.

Taking cues from the medical field, the geotechnical industry is evolving. Shifting from invasive methods to early screening, similar to medical imaging, brings reduced risk and improved project outcomes. While the transition unfolds gradually, those who embrace change early can reshape the industry, paving the way for more efficient mega projects and increased infrastructure investment. Getting on board early promises significant rewards in this transformative journey.

Ground modeling is revolutionizing with AI integration. By merging human and AI intelligence early on, a universal digital model emerges, bridging subsurface and surface realms for efficient collaboration. Iterative data synthesis enables optimization, prediction, and precise forecasting, ensuring on-time, on-budget outcomes for large projects. The rapid global adoption of this digital model within the next five years is set to reshape industry workflows significantly.

The industry is stuck in a rigid copy-paste culture for project scopes. It's crucial to break free, shift early to a comprehensive three-dimensional model, and let AI tailor solutions for unique site needs. The challenge is dispelling the black box perception, building trust, and making the industry more relatable and predictable. Take time to reflect, break free from conservatism, and align actions with the right objectives.

In mega projects, tight schedules and budgets are major concerns. Early decisions based on assumptions can lead to late-stage problem-solving. The industry's siloed nature and unforeseen issues later can be counterproductive. Spatial uncertainties, foundation modeling errors, and site investigation mistakes contribute to project failures. Starting earlier is crucial for establishing a single source of truth and refining the ground model to prev...