The Civil Engineering Podcast

Anthony Fasano, PE and James Taylor
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The Civil Engineering Podcast

The Civil Engineering Podcast provides engineering career advice and success stories specifically for civil engineers. Civil engineers Anthony Fasano, PE and James Taylor host the show and showcase civil engineering projects and professionals. Each show includes an overview of an interesting civil engineering project and an interview with a successful civil engineering professional.

  1. 4 HR AGO

    The Role of Sustainable Infrastructure in a Changing World – Ep 276

    In this episode, I talk with Maria Lehman, P.E., NAC, ENV SP, F.ASCE, US Infrastructure Lead at GHD, about sustainable infrastructure and how to address climate change challenges to build stronger, future-ready communities. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Maria: What do you think are the key factors for building infrastructure that is both strong and sustainable? Who is working to reduce financial risks in infrastructure projects, and how are engineers connecting with the financial sector? How is climate change increasing the urgency to update and improve our infrastructure? Can you explain the Crossroads report and its purpose? What updates can you share about the bipartisan infrastructure law and how it’s being used? Is the bipartisan infrastructure law mainly focused on water-related projects, or does it cover other areas too? How does good policymaking help solve long-term infrastructure challenges and include different generational perspectives? What final piece of advice do you have for civil engineers to improve their non-technical skills, like understanding project finances and policies? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About the Role of Sustainable Infrastructure in a Changing World: Civil engineers must prioritize life cycle costs, holistic solutions, and the integration of natural systems like oyster beds and green roofs. These approaches ensure infrastructure is not only durable but also environmentally friendly and cost-effective over time, meeting community needs and withstanding future challenges. Collaboration between civil engineers, financial institutions, and the insurance industry is key to reducing risks and lowering costs. By developing resilience standards and innovative funding mechanisms, these partnerships make infrastructure projects more financially viable and ensure long-term durability. Climate change is exposing infrastructure to unprecedented challenges like extreme weather events, including tornadoes, wildfires, and floods. Designing infrastructure with resilience and adaptability in mind helps mitigate these risks, ensuring systems can handle evolving demands and unforeseen disasters. The Crossroads report gathers public perspectives to inform smarter infrastructure planning and decision-making. By understanding diverse community needs and climate challenges, civil engineers can create impactful solutions that improve quality of life while addressing future risks. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocates funding across 17 categories, including roads, bridges, water, and broadband, significantly boosting resources for critical projects. Although the process involves planning and permitting complexities, these investments are transforming communities and creating substantial opportunities for engineering firms. While water projects are included, the law spans a wide range of infrastructure categories, including transportation, parks, and broadband. This comprehensive funding approach ensures a balanced investment in diverse infrastructure needs across the country. Streamlined processes and updated rules save time and resources, focusing efforts on impactful projects. Civil engineers play a vital role in advocating for policies that address long-term challenges, ensuring projects meet the needs of future generations while considering today’s constraints Developing “power skills” like financial literacy and policy comprehension is essential for professional growth and impact. Civil engineers should take initiative by seeking mentorship, volunteering for new responsibilities, and actively participating in professional organizations to expand their knowledge ...

    51 min

  2. 13 NOV

    How to Implement Water Engineering Strategies for a Sustainable Future – Ep 275

    In this episode, I talk with Jennifer Brunton, PE, CFM, CERP, senior vice president of Water at WSP, about innovative water engineering strategies, advanced technologies, and collaborative efforts aimed at tackling the urgent challenge of water scarcity. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Jennifer: How has water engineering become a key player in addressing today’s major challenges? With issues like water scarcity, a seemingly finite problem, what creative solutions can engineers explore? How are data and AI helping manage and predict infrastructure failures, like leaks, before they become major problems? Where have you found strong communication skills to be most critical in defining solutions and getting work done? What final piece of advice you would give to engineers working in water resources today? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Implement Water Engineering Strategies for a Sustainable Future: Water engineering has moved from background roles to center stage, tackling critical issues like climate change, aging infrastructure, and population growth. With increased public support and funding, they now lead efforts to develop innovative solutions to these pressing challenges, making it an exciting time for the field. Addressing water scarcity, especially in areas like the western U.S., involves establishing new water sources, using data to manage resources better, and reducing water loss through leak repairs. Public acceptance and strong communication are vital to moving these solutions forward and gaining the trust needed to implement them effectively. Data and AI allow engineers to move from a reactive to a proactive approach, predicting and prioritizing repairs to prevent issues before they escalate. This shift conserves resources, reduces disruptions, and enables more strategic budget allocation, as seen in examples like Cape Town's “Day Zero” crisis, where real-time data helped mobilize public action. Strong communication is essential in resilience projects, especially when engaging vulnerable communities after a crisis. In water engineering, engineers must actively listen, confirm understanding, and navigate both fixed and flexible project elements to build trust, ensure transparency, and work through complex challenges alongside stakeholders. Engineers should remain curious, embracing learning and growth to adapt to the field’s rapid changes. Staying open to new perspectives and being comfortable with friction points are key to finding innovative solutions in a field that lacks a set playbook, allowing engineers to drive progress and tackle evolving challenges. About Jennifer Brunton, PE, CFM, CERP Jennifer Brunton, P.E., CFM, CERP, is a civil and environmental engineer dedicated to bringing diverse teams together to solve complex technical challenges that enhance both the natural and built environments. She believes the future depends on helping clients and communities build resilience. Her goal is to leave a lasting, positive impact on the planet, the teams she leads, and the clients she serves. About the Host: K. James Taylor, Jr., P.E. K. James Taylor, Jr., P.E., is a licensed professional engineer and an associate vice president at Verdantas, an emerging environmental, engineering, and technical consulting company with a green, sustainable, and people-first approach in the foreground. James has over 17 years of experience in civil engineering in the land development and municipal fields. Land development services include the design of subdivisions and site plans for compliance with local codes and ordinances, civil/site engineering, stormwater management, road design,

    29 min

  3. 30 OCT

    How to Optimize Engineering Projects Through AI Integration – Ep 274

    In this episode, I talk with Aakash Prasad, co-founder and CEO of InspectMind AI, about how to optimize engineering projects through AI integration, boosting project efficiency, and helping engineers blend purpose with profit through sustainable solutions and thriving businesses. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Aakash: How do you balance your business goals with the mission of helping underserved customers in the industry? What are some of the most time-consuming tasks your AI technology helps civil engineers with, and can you give us some examples? What are your views on the ethical concerns of using AI technology in civil engineering, especially regarding its impact on the workforce? How do you see the future of civil engineering changing with the increased use of AI technology, and what impact do you think it will have? What should firms do to improve their workflows with AI technology, and how can they begin integrating it to boost productivity? How do you see the future of civil engineering changing with the growing use of AI technology, and what impact do you hope to make? What final piece of advice would you give engineers who want to successfully blend purpose and business in their careers, especially in civil engineering and AI technology? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Optimize Engineering Projects Through AI Integration: By focusing on solving real customer problems, AI technology streamlines civil engineers' work, automating tasks like report writing. This approach boosts productivity and builds trust, leading to long-term growth through word-of-mouth from satisfied clients. AI-generated reports enable engineers to quickly produce high-quality documents, reducing the time spent on formatting and writing. This frees up time for essential tasks like design, calculations, and decision-making, improving overall project efficiency. While concerns about AI replacing jobs exist, AI technology in civil engineering primarily automates repetitive tasks, allowing engineers to concentrate on higher-value work. This increases productivity and helps firms meet growing project demands without needing to hire additional staff, addressing workforce shortages. The integration of AI transforms civil engineering by automating mundane tasks, improving workflow efficiency, and enhancing project capacity. As firms adopt AI technology, they can handle more business, boost productivity, and grow without the constant need to hire more talent. Firms improve their workflows by incorporating AI tools that simplify repetitive tasks, such as report writing and data management. These user-friendly tools allow seamless integration into processes, increasing efficiency without requiring extensive training. AI technology plays a key role in reshaping civil engineering by enabling engineers to focus on creative and high-impact work. This enhances productivity, reduces time spent on administrative tasks, and creates a more efficient industry that better meets the needs of clients and engineers. Engineers achieve success by focusing on solving customer problems with authenticity and transparency. By viewing sales and business development as opportunities to provide genuine solutions, they build lasting relationships, advance their careers, and find fulfillment in their work. More Details in This Episode… About Aakash Prasad Aakash Prasad is a seasoned entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in EdTech, HR SaaS, and the AEC industries. He has founded and led multiple successful ventures, including LearnStreet, Lytmus, Design Everest, ProStruct engineering, and InspectMind AI.

    34 min

  4. 14 OCT

    How to Triumph in Knowledge Transfer Among Engineers – Ep 273

    In this episode, I talk with Jamison Morse, P.E., R.A., principal and director of buildings and structures at PVE-LLC, and Alan Mabry, co-founder of Turbine Workforce, about how tech is reshaping the AEC industry. We dive into solving the challenges of knowledge transfer, boosting productivity, and capturing more business with centralized platforms. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Jamison and Alan: With the increasing retirement rates in the AEC industry, how challenging is it to transfer knowledge to the next generation of engineers and architects, and what strategies have you implemented at PVE to address this? How does Turbine Workforce’s platform assist in transferring knowledge within firms like PVE, and what specific features help share expertise from senior professionals to newer staff? How has the adoption of technology at PVE impacted the collaboration and productivity of your technical professionals, particularly on diverse projects? Can you share any tools or examples that have improved teamwork across different disciplines in firms, and how has technology streamlined project coordination? What factors do you consider when deciding whether to adopt a software like Turbine, and what does that evaluation process look like? Could you share a project example or insights into how Turbine has helped PVE capture more business or improve efficiency in your workflow? How do you measure the return on investment (ROI) of using Turbine, and what value has it brought to your organization, especially in terms of knowledge retention and training? What final piece of advice would you give civil engineers on staying ahead with technology adoption and improving knowledge transfer within their firms? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Triumph in Knowledge Transfer Among Engineers: Knowledge transfer is a key factor in long-term growth, and reducing friction in sharing expertise is essential. PVE implements simple, accessible tools that capture and pass on knowledge effectively, freeing up valuable time and improving collaboration across teams, ensuring that critical expertise is preserved for future generations. Turbine Workforce’s platform assists by creating a centralized directory of skills, projects, and expertise that is easily accessible. It helps quickly identify internal resources and connect senior professionals with newer staff, streamlining the knowledge transfer process, and improving collaboration across disciplines. The adoption of technology at PVE has significantly improved collaboration and productivity by providing a central, accessible directory of skills and tools. This allows team members to work more effectively across offices, identify expertise faster, and streamline workflows, ultimately boosting productivity. When evaluating software like Turbine, a key factor to consider is its centralized directory, which categorizes skills and projects, making it easier to connect teams and improve collaboration. The evaluation should focus on whether the system streamlines communication and supports growth by helping capture more opportunities. When evaluating software like Turbine, the focus must be on how effectively it consolidates tools and resources into a single platform, simplifies access to information, and supports real-time client interaction. The assessment considers whether the platform can streamline processes, reduce redundant systems, and enhance overall efficiency. By utilizing Turbine, PVE has captured approximately 30% more business opportunities that were previously outsourced. The platform offers instant access to project expertise, enabling rapid responses to client needs, streamlining communication,

    40 min

  5. 26 SEPT

    How Engineers Can Tackle Urban Planning Challenges Better – Ep 272

    In this episode, I talk with Wes Marshall, Ph.D., P.E., professor and associate chair of civil engineering at the University of Colorado Denver, about his book, “Killed by a Traffic Engineer,” and how engineers can help to solve the biggest transportation and urban planning challenges. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Wes: What inspired you to write “Killed by a Traffic Engineer,” and what key message do you hope engineers take from it? What do you think is the biggest challenge in urban planning and transportation today, and how can engineers help solve it? How does focusing on "designing for people" change our approach to infrastructure projects? How can civil engineers incorporate sustainable practices more effectively into urban design and transportation? What are the main opportunities and challenges for civil engineers with the rise of smart cities and new technologies? How can engineers make sure infrastructure projects benefit all communities, especially underserved ones? How can civil engineers balance innovation with the practical challenges they face on projects? What final piece of advice would you give to engineers just starting out who want to make a difference in urban planning and transportation? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Engineers Can Tackle Urban Planning Challenges Better: Engineers are starting to rethink the role of cars in transportation, recognizing our deep dependence on them. The book, “Killed by a Traffic Engineer,” highlights the importance of incorporating new technology, like smart sensors and automated vehicles, while reexamining outdated assumptions to improve traffic systems and urban design. The biggest challenge is addressing road safety by moving beyond blaming human error and focusing on poor infrastructure design. Engineers can solve this by designing systems that account for how people actually move through urban environments, thus improving safety on a systemic level. Designing for people instead of vehicles in infrastructure projects transforms urban spaces by prioritizing pedestrian and public transit needs. This shift leads to safer, more inclusive streets, creating public spaces that serve everyone, not just cars. To incorporate sustainability into urban design and transportation, engineers must focus on fundamental design principles rather than relying solely on technology. Effective solutions start with creating efficient and reliable infrastructure that integrates technology as a supportive tool rather than a primary solution. New technologies, like autonomous vehicles and smart sensors, offer opportunities to improve urban mobility, but there is a challenge in ensuring they don’t lead to over-reliance or careless behavior. Engineers must balance technological integration with sound, people-centered design principles. Engineers must balance public input with data-driven decisions to ensure safety and effectiveness in infrastructure projects. This includes considering the needs of underserved communities while basing final designs on research and modern safety standards, rather than outdated assumptions like wider roads being safer. Civil engineers should balance innovative designs with practical, proven approaches, avoiding over-design. While modern regulations are important, engineers need to consider effective, long-standing solutions that have worked for decades to ensure that innovation doesn’t create unnecessary complexity. New engineers should pursue advanced education to deepen their expertise, moving beyond basic guidebooks and learning how to apply broader knowledge. This helps them make informed decisions that impact the safety and effectiveness of transportation projects,

    40 min

  6. 17 SEPT

    How to Enhance Projects With Better Communication – Ep 271

    In this episode, I chat with Jacqueline Dirmann, P.E., CME, CFM, client manager at T&M Associates, about how better communication strategies can elevate your projects and career, from engaging stakeholders to keeping the public informed during capital improvement projects. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Jacqueline: How do you approach communication with different project stakeholders, especially in municipalities where community involvement is key, given your experience as both a consulting and municipal engineer? How do you keep the public informed and engaged throughout the entire lifecycle of capital improvement projects? In your experience, how important is it to involve contractors early in communication with residents and stakeholders, and how does this affect the success of a project? How do you balance technical requirements with the concerns of local communities when addressing compliance issues related to zoning regulations and stormwater management? Can you share your approach to securing and managing grant funding for infrastructure projects, and how it affects the overall success of a project? Can you share an example of when proactive communication with residents helped prevent or reduce challenges during an infrastructure project? How do you adjust your communication strategies when working with different stakeholders like planning boards, zoning boards, and redevelopment agencies? Can you share some best practices for engineers looking to improve their community engagement skills when holding neighborhood meetings with local residents? What final advice would you give civil engineers wanting to improve their communication skills, especially when working on projects that greatly affect communities? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Enhance Projects With Better Communication: Involving the right stakeholders early in a project is crucial to understanding their needs and expectations. Clear, concise communication without technical jargon helps ensure that all participants, including non-technical ones, can follow along and make informed decisions as the project progresses. Since residents often see projects as disruptions rather than improvements, it’s essential to approach the situation from their perspective. By clearly communicating throughout the process and addressing their concerns, engineers can minimize frustration and maintain public engagement. Involving contractors early in the communication process is vital to project success, as it ensures residents' concerns are addressed by those managing the site. Contractors, being visible on-site, can answer specific questions and help mitigate potential issues before they escalate. When explaining complex technical requirements, it’s essential to break things down in simple, non-technical terms. By using relatable analogies, like comparing stormwater detention systems to a bathtub, residents can better understand the reasoning behind technical decisions, leading to greater acceptance and cooperation. It’s crucial to follow the specific rules and requirements set by grant agencies. Establishing a reputation for effectively managing grants ensures future funding opportunities, as agencies are more likely to allocate resources to those who consistently meet their criteria. Involving residents early in project discussions can uncover insights that might not be apparent in technical plans alone. Listening to their local knowledge and adjusting designs accordingly leads to more effective solutions and helps build trust with the community, reducing challenges later in the project. Each stakeholder has different concerns and priorities, so it’s important to understand their specific needs.

    43 min

  7. 4 SEPT

    How to Use AI Tools for Better Contract Management – Ep 270

    Understanding contracts is essential for protecting interests and avoiding risks. AI streamlines contract management by quickly reviewing terms, flagging issues, and ensuring compliance—saving time, reducing disputes, and boosting efficiency.

    37 min

  8. 21 AUG

    How to Achieve Years of Success in Construction Projects – Ep 269

    Unlock the keys to construction success with expert insights on mastering project management, prioritizing safety, and embracing sustainable practices. Discover how to elevate your projects and achieve lasting impact in the industry.

    25 min
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The Civil Engineering Podcast provides engineering career advice and success stories specifically for civil engineers. Civil engineers Anthony Fasano, PE and James Taylor host the show and showcase civil engineering projects and professionals. Each show includes an overview of an interesting civil engineering project and an interview with a successful civil engineering professional.

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