The AEC Leadership Podcast

Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
  • 4.7 (90)
  • 职业
  • 半月一更
The AEC Leadership Podcast

Leadership in architecture, engineering and construction comes with its own set of challenges, and technical leaders at all stages of their career need support and guidance. The AEC Leadership Podcast (AECLP) is dedicated to helping engineering leaders of all experience levels navigate these challenges. With a diverse audience of AEC professionals across various disciplines, The AECLP provides valuable insights and practical advice.

  1. 1月28日

    Unlock Sensational Growth With the Reverse Engineer Method in AEC – Ep 340

    In this episode, I talk to Stacie Alexiou, CEO and Managing Director of WATT + FLUX, a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and Six Sigma Master Black Belt, about how she uses a reverse engineer method to integrate decarbonization and energy-saving strategies into AEC operations. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Mastering Decarbonization in AEC With These Proven Energy-Saving Tactics: AEC leaders can integrate decarbonization and energy-saving strategies by leveraging the reverse engineer method to identify opportunities for strategic energy storage and LED lighting projects. These initiatives significantly reduce operational costs, increase client autonomy, and demonstrate how smart, sustainable business practices can drive environmental and financial impact. The Reverse Engineer Method empowers AEC business leaders to streamline processes and drive predictable, sustainable growth by reconnecting them with their core motivations. This realignment enhances leadership and operational efficiency, facilitating a transition from routine tasks to executive decision-making, which is essential for sustainable growth and profitability. The biggest leadership challenges in managing large-scale sustainability initiatives include maintaining alignment between project management and accounting to ensure effective invoicing and cash flow management. Leaders are advised to focus on automating repetitive tasks to enhance strategic decision-making. This approach, coupled with a focus on maintaining financial health and operational success, helps connect the strategy for profitability and growth with sustainability goals. To cultivate leadership and innovation within multidisciplinary teams in the AEC industry, it is recommended to develop a supportive business ecosystem where opportunities are shared. This builds strong, mutually beneficial relationships that contribute to a resilient community thriving on collaboration and shared success, turning teams into engaged, high-performing assets. Streamlined processes and automation significantly contribute to the success and efficiency of AEC projects by allowing companies to focus more on growth and strategic decision-making. Automating repetitive tasks leads to more sustainable revenue streams and predictable business development, ensuring consistent quality across projects. AEC leaders can effectively align their goals and resources to achieve sustainable, scalable, and profitable growth by using tools like scorecards. These tools clarify expectations for employees and assist managers in ensuring accountability and guiding developmental conversations, enhancing decision-making and identifying areas for improvement. Applying the reverse engineer method, AEC leaders can inspire teams by collaboratively defining success with clients and stakeholders at the project’s outset. Revisiting these definitions throughout the lifecycle ensures alignment, prevents dissatisfaction, and promotes an environment where teams remain engaged and productive. More in This Episode… About Stacie Alexiou, CEM Stacie Alexiou is a certified energy manager (CEM) and the dynamic CEO of WATT + FLUX, a company at the forefront of energy efficiency and sustainability solutions. With a proven track record in executive leadership, Stacie leverages her expertise to drive innovative energy strategies that help organizations optimize their energy use and achieve long-term sustainability goals. As a seasoned professional in energy management, Stacie has a passion for empowering businesses to embrace transformative approaches to energy savings while prioritizing environmental stewardship. Her leadership at WATT + FLUX exemplifies her commitment to delivering measurable ...

    46 分钟

  2. 1月14日

    How to Gain a Competitive Edge in the Engineering Recruitment Landscape – Ep 339

    In this episode, I talk with Lisa Nourse, talent acquisition manager at Stanley Consultants, about the evolving engineering recruitment landscape, the challenges AEC firms are navigating in recruitment, and practical strategies engineers can leverage to excel and build successful careers. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Gain a Competitive Edge in the Engineering Recruitment Landscape: The engineering recruitment climate remains dynamic and highly competitive, shaped by shifting market demands and evolving workforce expectations. It has moved from a transactional process based on qualifications to a strategic, relationship-driven approach where candidates prioritize growth opportunities, work-life balance, and meaningful work. Stanley Consultants stands out with its reputation for delivering complex, high-impact transportation projects. The company combines global project opportunities with local community engagement, emphasizes inclusion, and invests in professional development and leadership opportunities for employees. Recruiting senior engineers presents challenges due to widespread talent shortages, an aging workforce, and limited pipeline growth to replace retirees. These difficulties span sectors such as transportation, energy, and water, highlighting a pressing need for innovative recruitment strategies. Engineers can advance their careers by focusing on targeted strategies at each stage: early-career professionals prioritize hands-on experience, mentorship, certifications, and networking, while mid-career and senior engineers focus on leadership, emerging technologies, knowledge sharing, and active participation in professional communities. Valuing and recognizing employees creates a positive and collaborative workplace culture that builds trust and loyalty. Employees who feel appreciated and acknowledged are more likely to remain with the organization and actively contribute, even in challenging times. Companies can support senior professionals by setting clear goals, providing autonomy, and assigning tasks aligned with individual strengths. Seeking their input, publicly recognizing contributions, and encouraging calculated decision-making strengthens trust and engagement. Stanley Consultants offers a clear career roadmap, supports certifications, provides leadership and technical training, and encourages involvement in strategy and innovation discussions. Growth opportunities are tailored to individual strengths, allowing employees to contribute meaningfully to both local and global projects. AEC professionals benefit from continually upskilling, embracing emerging technologies, and actively participating in professional organizations and conferences. Combining technical expertise with adaptability, innovation, and collaboration enables them to excel in an evolving industry focused on impactful, sustainable projects. More in This Episode… About Lisa Nourse Lisa Nourse is a dynamic and innovative talent acquisition manager at Stanley Consultants, where she has been a pivotal member for over 9.5 years. Her expertise lies in transforming organizations into high-performing, collaborative teams, focused on hiring the best candidates while implementing sustainable and impactful processes. As a strategic partner in the hiring process, Lisa advises business leaders on best practices, ensuring that recruitment strategies align seamlessly with organizational goals. She is renowned for her mentorship and coaching abilities, adept at assigning work based on availability, skills, and developmental needs. Her approach to performance assessment is both motivational and results-driven. Lisa possesses sharp analytical and problem-solving skills, which enable her to interface closely with senior business lea...

    29 分钟

  3. 2024/12/31

    Innovative Solutions and Key Challenges Shaping the Future of Infrastructure – Ep 338

    In this episode, I speak with Marsha Anderson Bomar, Ph.D., AICP, F.ASCE, H.ITE, ENV SP, a strategic transportation advisor at GHD, about the key forces shaping the future of infrastructure. We explore the most pressing challenges and uncover the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in this rapidly evolving field. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Innovative Solutions and Key Challenges Shaping the Future of Infrastructure: The most significant challenges include workforce shortages and the long timelines required for infrastructure projects to show results. Opportunities lie in utilizing innovative technologies like AI and advanced materials to design more efficient, durable, and adaptive infrastructure systems. Technology and innovation, such as 3D printing and energy-generating roadways, redefine how infrastructure is designed and constructed. These advancements accelerate project delivery, improve sustainability, and create infrastructure solutions that meet modern demands. ASCE plays a critical role in addressing infrastructure needs by advocating for impactful legislation, bringing industry leaders together, and addressing workforce shortages. Initiatives like the infrastructure report card provide tools to evaluate progress and guide decisions that lead to meaningful improvements. Engineers should prioritize sustainability and resilience from the beginning of a project, integrating these principles into the design phase to avoid costly adjustments later. Engaging with organizations like ASCE and collaborating with the finance and insurance sectors help secure investments that ensure long-term value and durability. ASCE strengthens its support for diverse voices by creating intentional initiatives that bring different perspectives to the table. By ensuring all viewpoints are represented, ASCE enhances the development of infrastructure that meets the needs of every community. Participation in professional organizations like ASCE allows engineers to build meaningful relationships, develop leadership skills, and expand their networks. These connections create opportunities for career growth and equip engineers to make a greater impact on their communities. Engineers should look beyond their daily tasks by engaging with colleagues, sharing their passions, and connecting with professional organizations like ASCE. These steps help them build confidence, form valuable relationships, and contribute to transformative projects that shape the future of civil engineering. More in This Episode… About Marsha Anderson Bomar, Ph.D., AICP, F. ASCE, H. ITE, ENV SP Marsha Anderson Bomar is the commissioner emeritus and former deputy commissioner of engineering for the City of Atlanta's department of transportation. With a career spanning over four decades, she has been a driving force in the fields of transportation engineering and public service. Marsha holds a Ph.D. in environmental design and planning from The University of Georgia and dual M.S.E. and M.A. degrees in civil engineering (Transportation) from Princeton University. In 1990, Marsha founded Street Smarts, followed by Data Smarts in 1993, leading these companies to significant success and eventually selling them to Stantec in 2010. She also established the Street Smarts Foundation, which endowed the Mentor and Mentee program within Women in Engineering at Georgia Tech. Marsha has made history as the first female International President and an Honorary Member of the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE). She is a Fellow of ASCE, where she has held numerous leadership roles, including serving as Society Treasurer and being nominated for President-Elect in 2024.

    42 分钟

  4. 2024/12/10

    How to Empower Your Leadership Skills Through Volunteering – Ep 337

    In this episode, I talk to Yasmina Khelifi, PMP, PMI-ACP, PMI-PBA, and Mayte Mata Sivera, PMP, about how volunteering can transform your leadership skills. Learn how these experiences unlock personal growth, strengthen your network, and open doors to exciting career opportunities. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Empower Your Leadership Skills Through Volunteering: Many engineers experience imposter syndrome when transitioning from technical roles to leadership, especially when navigating unfamiliar domains. Building confidence and engaging with supportive communities helps overcome these challenges and achieve success in leadership roles. Transitioning from a task-oriented role to leadership requires learning to guide and empower others rather than focusing solely on individual execution. This shift in mindset is challenging, but essential for building team success and driving collective growth. Volunteering provides technical professionals with practical opportunities to develop leadership skills, such as delegation and adaptability, in a low-pressure environment. It also allows them to explore new abilities, like public speaking and communication, that directly enhance professional development. Through volunteering, professionals gain skills like delegation and adaptability while practicing new abilities such as public speaking and effective communication. These experiences have a direct and positive impact on workplace performance. Leading diverse teams in international projects involves understanding and adapting to different cultural contexts while promoting inclusivity. Building connections through effective communication and creating an environment where everyone feels confident to contribute strengthens collaboration and team outcomes. Certifications enhance credibility and confidence for engineering professionals, especially in regions where they are highly valued for career advancement. Continuous learning and active participation in communities are equally important for developing leadership skills and expanding professional networks. Continuous learning and community involvement are essential for refining leadership skills. Volunteering offers opportunities for growth by enabling professionals to take on new challenges, build meaningful connections, and gain practical leadership experience. About Yasmina Khelifi, PMP, PMI-ACP, PMI-PBA Yasmina Khelifi, PMP, PMI-ACP, PMI-PBA, a seasoned senior project manager, has extensive experience in managing international projects and launching mobile technologies across the Middle East and Africa (MEA). With a solid foundation as an R&D engineer, she transitioned to project management in 2006 and has since become a passionate advocate for collaboration, innovation, and cross-cultural leadership. Yasmina is an accomplished professional, holding multiple PMI certifications and excelling in the telecom industry, where she works to bridge the gap between technology and social impact in the MEA region. A lifelong learner, Yasmina is dedicated to personal and intellectual growth, having pursued advanced studies at INSEAD and through various professional platforms. Fluent in multiple languages, she volunteers actively with PMI, fostering knowledge sharing and community engagement. Her work aims to connect people, improve mobile accessibility, and contribute to business development in challenging environments. About Mayte Mata Sivera, PMP Mayte Mata Sivera, PMP, is an accomplished project management professional with a background in chemical engineering and over a decade of experience in technology and strategic project leadership. Currently serving as PMO leader,

    26 分钟

  5. 2024/11/26

    How Technology Is Changing Mental Health Support in AEC – Ep 336

    In this episode, I talk to Chad Smeltzer, vice president of technology at Maze of Life Resource Center, about how technology is revolutionizing mental health support in construction and driving the urgent digital transformation needed in the AEC sector. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How Technology Is Changing Mental Health Support in AEC: Addressing mental health challenges requires combining expertise in infrastructure and technology. Leveraging data and video tools can lead to solutions that provide meaningful support to those facing mental health challenges. The goal is to improve services and outcomes by using data to raise awareness, enhance access to mental health resources, and create tools that support healthier environments for professionals in high-stress industries like construction and engineering. Technology raises awareness and provides virtual tools to tackle mental health challenges in the AEC sector. Solutions such as data-driven insights, virtual support sessions, and video-based tools enable professionals to access resources while building a more supportive and healthier workforce. Organizations can address mental health challenges by creating a culture of awareness, encouraging open communication, and training leaders to recognize signs of struggle. Supportive workplace practices and accessible mental health tools create an environment where employees feel comfortable seeking help. Resistance to change and fear of job loss are significant challenges in digital transformation. These challenges are addressed by educating teams about the benefits of AI and automation, demonstrating how technology streamlines processes, and emphasizing how it allows professionals to focus on higher-value tasks. AEC professionals embrace technology to improve both mental health and operational efficiency. By adopting innovative tools like AI and automation, they create impactful solutions, streamline workflows, and develop environments that prioritize both productivity and well-being. More in This Episode… About Chad Smeltzer Chad Smeltzer is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader with over two decades of experience in business development, operations, and public works infrastructure. Starting his career at a young age, Chad’s journey has been defined by a hands-on approach, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a passion for innovation. He launched his first company in 2007, providing bioremediation solutions to utilities, and has since founded and grown multiple businesses, including Bidcurement, a digital procurement platform for public works and utilities. Chad's expertise spans sales, infrastructure management, and leveraging technology to solve civil infrastructure challenges. He is currently the vice president of technology at Maze of Life Resource Center, where he focuses on adaptive learning and mental health technology, while also serving as the CEO of Bidcurement. Chad is also the host of The Infrastructure Hot Seat Podcast, where he engages with industry experts to explore trends in public works and technology. His mission is to help organizations and individuals embrace digital transformation, AI, and generative AI systems to streamline processes, reduce costs, and improve communities for future generations. Resources and Links Mentioned in This Session Include: Maze of Life Bidcurement Dukes RMS Utilities Connect with Chad Smeltzer on LinkedIn We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you might share on how technology is changing mental health support in AEC. Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.

    24 分钟

  6. 2024/11/12

    How to Implement Management Streams in AEC Leadership – Ep 335

    In this episode, I talk to Dalmo Cirne, senior manager of machine learning engineering at Workday, about the concept of “management streams” and why it's vital for effective leadership and organizational success in the AEC industry. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Implement Management Streams in AEC Leadership: The “management streams” framework divides management responsibilities into four key streams: managing oneself (reservoir), managing a team and operations (downstream), managing upward to stakeholders (upstream), and collaborating across disciplines (side stream). This approach helps leaders navigate diverse challenges effectively by engaging with each key direction in their management role. Effective leaders must avoid tunnel vision — focusing solely on their immediate team or tasks (“downstream”). Instead, leaders should manage multiple streams to ensure alignment across all stakeholders, plan strategically, and address unexpected changes or evolving requirements, especially in the complex AEC industry. A common management challenge is the lack of resources or actionable guidance for transitioning from an individual contributor role to a managerial position. Many traditional leadership tips are vague and not helpful. Practical frameworks, like management streams, help leaders grow effectively and meet the demands of today’s dynamic work environment. The “management streams” framework is an evolutionary approach, not a disruptive one. It builds on traditional management knowledge while addressing the complexities of today’s work environment, helping managers develop the skills needed to thrive and effectively bridge the gap between what they think they know and the requirements of modern leadership. Effective self-management directly impacts how leaders handle their teams and navigate challenges. By mastering self-awareness, managing personal reactions, and being deliberate in their responses, leaders build trust, create a positive environment, and support the long-term cohesion and success of their teams. Assembling an effective team is like putting together a sports team: it requires a balanced mix of skills. Leaders need visionaries, problem-solvers, and “forwarders” who are focused on seeing projects through to completion. This variety ensures that the team is equipped with complementary skills, covering both abstract thinking and practical execution. Misalignment with upstream stakeholders usually indicates a breakdown in communication. Keeping communication channels open is crucial to influence decisions, prevent misunderstandings, and avoid decisions being made without crucial information, which negatively impacts projects. Building strong peer-to-peer relationships (“side stream”) is crucial for project success. Collaborating with other disciplines — such as product managers, legal teams, and marketing — ensures alignment across all parts of a project, moving it forward smoothly despite inevitable challenges and frictions. AEC professionals should not only strive to be good at their technical roles but also focus on mastering the skills and expectations of leadership and management. By focusing on being effective first — delivering results and meeting expectations — before trying to become highly efficient, leaders grow sustainably and build strong foundations for their future success. More in This Episode… About Dalmo Cirne Dalmo Cirne works with technology, is the author of “Management Streams,” and writes books and articles ranging from management and leadership to software and mathematics. Colorado is where he calls home. What is different about his work is that it presents explanatory knowledge for the why,

    38 分钟

  7. 2024/10/28

    How to Leverage Your Personal Brand for Business Success – Ep 334

    In this episode, I talk to Dawn Wagenaar, principal and brand strategist at Ingenuity Marketing Group, about how building a strong personal brand can boost your career and open doors to success, whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Leverage Your Personal Brand for Business Success: Personal branding is crucial for professionals in the AEC sector, as it helps them connect their personal interests with their work. By being authentic and sharing aspects of their personality, they build stronger relationships and stand out in the industry. Creating content that blends professional expertise with personal interests is key to building a relatable and memorable personal brand. Sharing personal stories alongside technical insights allows professionals to connect with their audience on a deeper level and gain a competitive edge. A common branding challenge is the inability to differentiate in a competitive market. To address this, AEC firms must clearly define what sets them apart, beyond just high-quality work or technical knowledge, and highlight the unique qualities that make them stand out from competitors. While core values guide internal work, they do not always differentiate a firm. A brand should highlight the unique qualities that set the company apart in the marketplace, ensuring these qualities align with both the company’s core values and business direction. Consistency is vital for building both personal and corporate brands, ensuring that key messages and brand standards are unified across all platforms. Firms achieve this by establishing clear brand guidelines and training employees to communicate these messages effectively, creating a cohesive brand identity. In today's digital landscape, maintaining consistent messaging and visuals across all channels is more important than ever, as prospects can search for businesses at any time. Consistency builds trust and credibility, making it easier for potential clients to recognize and connect with the brand on social media, websites, and emails. Small actions, such as regularly posting on LinkedIn or engaging with industry organizations, significantly contribute to building a personal brand. By showing personality and being authentic, professionals strengthen relationships, enhance recruitment efforts, and create more business opportunities. About Dawn Wagenaar Dawn Wagenaar is a seasoned strategic brand consultant with expertise in the accounting, AEC, and senior living sectors. As a principal at Ingenuity Marketing Group, she combines her leadership skills with a passion for growth and development. Dawn holds a master’s in educational leadership from the University of St. Thomas and a Bachelor of Arts in marketing and management, with a minor in economics, from Augsburg University. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dawn is deeply involved in her community, having served on the Hastings YMCA board and fostering strong connections with her long-standing book club and neighborhood Bunko group. Known for her organizational skills, dedication to family, and love for Golden Retrievers, Dawn finds balance in life through meal planning, cardio dance fitness, and enjoying white wine and Hallmark movies. Resources and Links Mentioned in This Session Include: Ingenuity Marketing Group Connect with Dawn Wagenaar on LinkedIn We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you might share on how to leverage your personal brand for business success. Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.

    23 分钟

  8. 2024/10/21

    How to Refactor Your Mindset for Better Performance – Ep 333

    In this episode, I talk with Dagna Bieda, coach, author, and speaker, about how AEC professionals can refactor their mindset to boost productivity, overcome imposter syndrome and burnout, and unlock their full potential with actionable insights from her book, “Brain Refactor.” Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Refactor Your Mindset for Better Performance: To refractor your mindset means reprogramming unproductive thought patterns, much like fixing a design flaw in a project. For AEC professionals, this shift enables you to approach challenges more effectively by applying your existing problem-solving skills to yourself, improving both your performance and adaptability at work. Imposter syndrome causes self-doubt and hesitation, while burnout drains energy and decision-making ability. These obstacles reduce productivity by affecting confidence, focus, and motivation, making it harder for you to achieve your best outcomes as AEC professionals. You can overcome these challenges by treating your mindset like a system, identifying and fixing unproductive mental patterns. By shifting your thinking, you can view obstacles as opportunities for growth and become more resilient and productive in your daily work. You can identify unproductive mental patterns by paying attention to recurring setbacks, such as missed opportunities or ongoing self-doubt. Feedback from peers, managers, or personal reflection on unmet goals can help you spot these “bugs” in your thinking and take steps to address them. Difficult relationships at work often lead to stress and miscommunication, both of which reduce productivity. By shifting their mindset to view these challenges as feedback rather than frustrations, AEC professionals can improve communication, resolve conflicts more quickly, and enhance team performance. Practical strategies to refactor your mindset include maintaining mental energy by resting and recharging, using feedback as a learning tool, and regularly "debugging" outdated beliefs that hold you back. By treating your brain like a well-maintained tool, you can enhance your ability to solve problems and achieve success. To maintain long-term productivity, you should prioritize your mental well-being, regularly recharging and updating your thinking patterns. Viewing your well-being as an investment in your career helps you to stay sharp, overcome evolving challenges, and sustain high performance. As AEC professionals, you should stay open to feedback, embrace challenges as learning opportunities, and continuously refactor your mindset. By doing so, you can overcome obstacles, enhance problem-solving skills, and thrive in your career with sustained productivity and success. About Dagna Bieda Dagna is an engineer turned coach for engineers and ambitious professionals in tech. She's also a speaker and an author of the recently released book, "Brain Refactor: Optimize Your Internal Code to Thrive in Tech & Engineering and Get More Success, Fulfillment, Money, Opportunities, Impact, and Growth". With 10-plus years of coding experience and coaching since 2019, she’s the tough love, “been in your shoes” kind of coach. Her clients' backgrounds include a spectrum ranging from ICs to CTOs, from small startups to FAANG+ companies, from two to 20-plus years of experience, and from self-taught devs through career-changing bootcamp grads to college grads and Ph.D.’s. She helps her clients reach their potential and exciting career opportunities by refactoring their brains. Books Mentioned in This Session: Brain Refactor Resources and Links Mentioned in This Session Include: TheMindfulDev.com Connect with Dagna Bieda on LinkedIn We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories ...

    24 分钟
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关于

Leadership in architecture, engineering and construction comes with its own set of challenges, and technical leaders at all stages of their career need support and guidance. The AEC Leadership Podcast (AECLP) is dedicated to helping engineering leaders of all experience levels navigate these challenges. With a diverse audience of AEC professionals across various disciplines, The AECLP provides valuable insights and practical advice.

信息

  • 创作者
    Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
  • 活跃年份
    2013年 - 2025年
  • 单集
    340
  • 分级
    儿童适宜
  • 节目网站
    The AEC Leadership Podcast

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