The Structural Engineering Channel

Mathew Picardal, PE, SE & Rachel Holland, P.E.
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The Structural Engineering Channel

The Structural Engineering Channel (TSEC) focuses on helping structural engineering professionals stay up to date on technical trends in the field. Our hosts for the show, Mathew Picardal, PE, and Cara Green, EIT interviews engineers ranging from recent engineering graduates to professionals from top engineering organizations on professional development topics for structural engineers to facilitate career advancement. Topics covered include but are not limited to performance-based design, fasteners and connections, post-tensioned structures, smart structures, tsunami modelling, earthquake engineering, software solutions, seismic design, blast resistant design, wood, business issues and professional development for structural engineers, how to specify things effectively, and more.

  1. HACE 2 DÍAS

    A Complete Guide to Shore Power and Its Environmental Benefits – Ep 145

    In this episode, I talk with Graciela Patino, senior vice-president at WSP, about the concept of shore power and its essential role in minimizing the environmental impact of cruise ships while advancing sustainable maritime practices. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Graciela: What are some of the key challenges involved in designing electrical and control systems for movable bridges? How does working on rehabilitation projects for movable bridges differ from designing new ones? Could you explain how shore power works and why it plays a vital role in environmental sustainability? How has your experience with movable bridges contributed to your work on shore power projects? What are the biggest engineering challenges the industry faces when implementing shore power systems at ports? What skills or experience do engineers need to succeed in large-scale sustainable projects like shore power? What final piece of advice would you give to students starting out in electrical engineering or sustainable technology projects? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Shore Power and Its Environmental Benefits: Designing electrical and control systems for movable bridges requires precise coordination among multiple disciplines to achieve safety and functionality. Fixed physical spaces and the integration of modern technology, like programmable logic controllers, increase the complexity of these projects. Rehabilitation projects for movable bridges present greater challenges than designing new ones because they involve adapting existing infrastructure to incorporate modern technology and meet safety standards. Engineers navigate fixed spaces and coordinate updates across all disciplines to ensure functionality and compliance. Shore power connects docked ships to utility power, reducing reliance on onboard generators and cutting greenhouse gas emissions significantly. This cleaner, cost-effective energy solution improves environmental sustainability by minimizing air pollution in ports. Experience with movable bridges provides valuable insights into coordinating across disciplines and addressing spatial and operational constraints. These skills directly apply to shore power projects, where careful planning is essential to accommodate moving ships and complex infrastructure. Key challenges in shore power implementation include working within tight physical spaces, managing structural loads of existing infrastructure, and ensuring compatibility with various ship types. Collaborative efforts among disciplines and suppliers play a critical role in overcoming these obstacles. Engineers require strong technical expertise, interdisciplinary coordination skills, and adaptability to evolving technologies. Emphasizing collaboration and learning from experienced industry professionals is essential for success in large-scale projects. Students benefit from building their careers step by step, mastering technical skills before pursuing management roles. This incremental approach establishes a solid foundation in both technical and collaborative aspects, supporting long-term success in their field. More Details in This Episode… About Graciela Patino Graciela Patino, senior vice-president at WSP and an electrical engineer, is a graduate of the University of Florida, Florida, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. She has more than 29 years of experience that includes design for power distribution, instrumentation and controls, and motor drive systems. Graciela has worked in the movable bridge industry for 24 years, designing and commissioning electrical and control systems for movable ...

    27 min

  2. 12 DIC

    Why Engineering Yourself First Is the Key to Achieving Success! – Ep 144

    In this episode, I talk with Jake Kennington, P.E., SE, senior engineer at Reaveley Engineers and the owner and coach at Human Engineer Coach, about how principles like stability and resilience can transform both your career and life. Discover why “engineering yourself first” is the ultimate blueprint for success! ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Jake: Why do you think engineers often prioritize professional work over personal growth, and what risks come with that? How did “engineering yourself first” become a key focus for you, and how does it relate to building a strong and resilient career, similar to principles in structural engineering? How do you connect the structural engineering concept of “strong column, weak beam” to personal development? Can you explain the idea of “owning the morning” and how starting the day with personal time can positively impact your overall day? Why do you encourage engineers to journal, and how does writing help improve self-awareness? How do you motivate engineers to explore creative outlets outside of work, and is this something you incorporate into your coaching? How does self-discipline play a role in building a strong personal foundation, and how can engineers develop this skill? What final piece of advice would you give to structural engineers or young professionals aiming to build a strong foundation for long-term success in their careers? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Why Engineering Yourself First Is the Key to Achieving Success: Engineers often prioritize urgent tasks because they are tangible and measurable, but this approach may lead to neglecting personal growth and long-term well-being. By distinguishing between urgency and importance, they can create a more balanced and rewarding approach to both work and life, reducing burnout and building resilience. Personal development alongside professional growth allows engineers to achieve balance and avoid burnout. Just as structural engineering relies on strong foundational elements, personal resilience is built through self-discipline, creativity, and self-awareness, which support long-term career and life success. In structural engineering, stability depends on strong foundational elements, and the same principle applies to life. Strengthening personal foundations with self-discipline, creativity, and self-awareness enables individuals to sustain their careers, families, and overall well-being, ensuring a stable and resilient future. Starting the day with intentional personal time ensures that essential priorities, such as mental, emotional, and physical health, receive attention before daily demands take over. This practice sets a positive tone, eliminates distractions, and establishes a strong foundation for a productive and balanced day. Journaling captures meaningful moments and refines thoughts, making them easier to reflect on and preserve. This simple yet effective practice organizes the mind, builds mindfulness, and ensures experiences are remembered rather than forgotten over time. Exploring creative projects outside of work equips individuals with new skills and perspectives that enhance their personal and professional lives. By stepping beyond the routine, engineers strengthen adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and connections, contributing to long-term success. Self-discipline forms the foundation of integrity, requiring individuals to honor commitments made to themselves. Embracing the effort needed to achieve goals allows engineers to develop habits that drive long-term success and fulfillment. Building a strong foundation becomes more achievable with the guidance of a mentor ...

    51 min

  3. 28 NOV

    Why Simple Designs Lead to Better Engineering Outcomes – Ep 143

    In this episode, I talk with James Fisher, Ph.D., P.E., Dist.M.ASCE, consulting engineer at SJI and vice president of CSD Structural Engineers, about the core principles of structural engineering—showing how simple designs, precision, and collaboration can cut costs, meet deadlines, and deliver lasting quality. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked James: What have been the most rewarding parts of your involvement in organizations like the Steel Joyce Institute and the American Institute of Steel Construction? Why is it important to focus on constructability early in the design process, and how does it help avoid costly mistakes? As a professor, did you emphasize constructability, or was it a focus you developed more in your industry work, and can you share examples of how it helps prevent costly mistakes? What do you mean by creating 'Flintstone designs,' and how does keeping designs simple and robust make structures better? How can engineers decide when to stick with proven methods and when to try new ideas? Why is paying attention to detail so important in design, and how can small mistakes lead to bigger problems? How can engineers use technology effectively while still relying on their own judgment and critical thinking? What trends or challenges do you see in structural engineering, and what advice would you give to young engineers starting out? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Why Simple Designs Lead to Better Engineering Outcomes: Engaging with organizations like the Steel Joyce Institute and the American Institute of Steel Construction encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among industry leaders. This involvement not only influences building codes but also strengthens the engineering community by cultivating professional relationships and lifelong friendships. Focusing on constructability early ensures designs remain practical and straightforward, reducing issues during construction. While minimizing material weight may seem cost-effective, it often leads to higher labor costs for detailing, fabrication, and assembly, making constructability a priority for streamlining processes and preventing costly errors. In industry work, constructability becomes a critical focus, as practical applications demand simplified designs to avoid unnecessary complexity. Clear and precise plans reduce construction errors, save time, and lower labor costs on-site, demonstrating the importance of constructability. The "Flintstone philosophy" emphasizes keeping designs simple and robust, making structures easier to build and less prone to errors. This approach prioritizes practical solutions that address real-world construction challenges, resulting in more effective and resilient structures. Balancing efficiency and simplicity requires engineers to focus on the big picture and avoid unnecessary innovations. Proven methods offer reliability, while new ideas should be explored only when they provide clear advantages and are grounded in sound principles to ensure successful project outcomes. Attention to detail is essential, as small design errors can cascade into larger issues during construction, leading to costly corrections. Clear, practical designs help engineers prevent such problems and maintain the integrity of their projects. Technology serves as a tool to enhance and refine designs, but it cannot replace human judgment. Engineers must apply their experience, foundational principles, and critical thinking to validate outputs from design tools, ensuring results are both practical and safe. Emerging trends like AI and advanced technologies challenge engineers to use these tools correctly and respo...

    30 min

  4. 14 NOV

    Mentorship and Continuous Learning for Bold Engineering Growth – Ep 142

    In this episode, we talk with Ryan Jeansonne, P.E., civil structural engineer at Titan Delta, who shares powerful insights on mentorship and continuous learning in engineering, inspiring both new and seasoned professionals to take bold, impactful steps in their careers. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Ryan: Can you share some important moments or pivotal career decisions that have significantly shaped your path, especially regarding mentorship and continuous learning? How have your varied experiences and commitment to continuous learning contributed to your growth as an engineer? What specific tools or skills have proven most helpful for your professional development and success in engineering through mentorship? What mindset do you rely on when transitioning between specializations, especially in different engineering fields, and how does continuous learning support these shifts? Has learning and mastering local codes, as part of your continuous learning journey, helped you move forward in your career? How can consulting or pro bono work help engineers grow, build their professional network, and find valuable mentorship opportunities? What final piece of advice would you offer to young engineers aiming to advance in structural or civil engineering through mentorship and continuous learning? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Mentorship and Continuous Learning for Bold Engineering Growth: Key career decisions and varied experiences, from major New York infrastructure projects to residential design, play a crucial role in shaping a professional journey. Taking on new challenges and diverse roles, with the support of mentorship and continuous learning, builds expertise in both civil and structural engineering, opening doors to larger responsibilities and growth opportunities. Working in different roles and fields broadens skills and adaptability. A commitment to continuous learning, along with guidance from mentorship, supports smooth transitions across projects, deepening understanding and advancing a career. Using industry tools and resources, along with learning from peers and mentors, is essential for tackling new challenges. Mastering design software and insights gained through mentorship boost confidence and drive success in various engineering projects. An open and adaptable mindset is essential when moving between disciplines. Curiosity, continuous learning, and mentorship enable engineers to tackle new challenges and expand their skill sets in both civil and structural engineering. Mastering local codes, especially complex ones like those in New York, is central to career growth. This expertise, supported by mentorship, enhances effectiveness in managing complex projects, allowing engineers to take on senior roles with confidence and ensure compliance. Consulting provides valuable growth and networking opportunities, though it requires thorough preparation, including insurance and a strong firm setup to handle risks. Approaching consulting thoughtfully, with continuous learning and mentorship, is especially important in structural fields, where accuracy and liability are crucial. For young engineers, staying adaptable, seeking continuous learning opportunities, and embracing varied roles, especially in smaller companies, leads to a wide range of experience. Leveraging mentorship, mastering codes, and building solid skills establish a foundation for career advancement and success in complex projects. More Details in This Episode… About Ryan Jeansonne, P.E. Ryan Jeansonne, P.E., is a civil structural engineer at Titan Delta with a bachelor’s degree in civil engi...

    25 min

  5. 31 OCT

    How to Revolutionize Infrastructure Resilience With Tech – Ep 141

    In this episode, we speak with Farshad Mirshafiei, Ph.D., P.Eng., CEO and co-founder of Sensequake, about how advanced technologies are transforming structural assessments and redefining safety and infrastructure resilience in buildings and critical systems. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Farshad: What inspired you to start Sensequake, and how has the vision for your company evolved since then? Why do you think it's important for traditional engineering firms to change how they approach structural assessments and monitoring? How are your technologies different from traditional structural health monitoring methods, and why are these advancements essential for the future of infrastructure resilience? Can you share some notable projects where Sensequake’s solutions improved safety or saved costs for clients? How do you see the structural engineering industry evolving over the next 20 years with the integration of new technologies? What final piece of advice do you have for engineers to adapt to the changing landscape of structural assessments and advance their careers? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Revolutionize Infrastructure Resilience With Tech: Sensequake integrates advanced sensing technologies into structural engineering, enhancing the way buildings and structures are evaluated. The company partners with structural engineers globally, offering solutions that improve safety and efficiency in infrastructure projects. In industries like automotive and aviation, advanced sensing technologies monitor performance, but buildings often lack these systems. By using data-driven methods and sensors, engineering firms can predict and prevent failures, lower costs, and extend the lifespan of structures, making innovation vital for the future of civil engineering. Innovative sensors and software from Sensequake provide real-time, detailed analysis of structural health. These tools enable fast, informed decisions on repairs and safety, helping prevent disasters and ensuring long-term resilience against natural hazards and structural aging. Sensequake's technology plays a crucial role in high-profile projects such as the Parliament and Supreme Court of Canada, the Champlain Bridge, and UC San Diego’s shake table test. These projects benefit from real-time insights that help owners avoid costly repairs and ensure safety by identifying issues early. The integration of real-world data and new technologies is essential for improving the design and maintenance of structures. Advancements in AI, data analysis, and sensing technologies allow engineers to create optimized designs, with interdisciplinary collaboration driving further innovation in the industry. Engineers must embrace innovation and adopt new technologies beyond traditional methods. Staying updated on advancements in AI, sensors, and data analysis, and collaborating with other fields, will be critical to staying ahead in the evolving structural engineering landscape. More Details in This Episode… About Farshad Mirshafiei, Ph. D., P. Eng. Dr. Farshad Mirshafiei is an internationally renowned expert in ambient vibration testing, sensing-based structural analysis and structural health monitoring. Farshad serves as CEO of Sensequake and has a Ph.D. in structural engineering from McGill University. During his leadership, Sensequake technologies have been used to assess many landmark buildings and bridges across the USA, Canada, Mexico, and abroad. Farshad has 19 years of experience, having published 20 international journal and conference papers throughout his career and developing a patent for a novel sensing-based seismic evaluation...

    46 min

  6. 21 OCT

    The Surprising Secrets to Successful Engineering Talent Retention – Ep 140

    In this episode, I talk with Mark Riffey, CEO of ENERCALC, about his valuable insights on engineering talent retention, implementing strategies to prevent burnout, and successfully navigating the ever-evolving landscape of remote work within the engineering industry. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Mark: How does your team integrate the expertise of structural engineers and software developers, and what unique contributions do each bring to your software development process? What are the primary factors driving engineers to leave the industry early in their careers, and how can companies create better work environments to retain them? How can leadership foster a sustainable work environment that prevents engineers from experiencing burnout and overwork? What strategies can leadership use for better engineering talent retention, considering the impact of turnover on project continuity and company culture? What project management practices can firms adopt to avoid a high-pressure "grind" environment and ensure sustainable workloads for engineering teams? What key factors motivate employees to stay at a company for the long term, and how can leaders build trust and loyalty within their teams? How can engineering firms balance profitability with ensuring employees maintain a healthy work-life balance and avoid burnout? How has the rise of remote work impacted the engineering industry, and what are the best practices for managing teams effectively across different time zones? What final piece of advice would you offer to engineers on how to find a firm that supports both their career development and personal well-being? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About the Surprising Secrets to Successful Engineering Talent Retention: ENERCALC integrates the expertise of structural engineers and software developers by leveraging the specialized knowledge of each group. Structural engineers ensure that the software meets industry-specific challenges, while software developers focus on refining the technical framework for efficient and reliable solutions, helping retain engineering talent through innovation and collaboration. Engineers often leave the industry early due to burnout, excessive workloads, and a lack of work-life balance. Companies attain better engineering talent retention by providing meaningful work, respecting their time, and creating sustainable environments that prioritize productivity without sacrificing well-being. Leadership creates a sustainable work environment by treating engineers with care, ensuring they are not overloaded with work and maintaining manageable workloads. This approach helps retain top talent and reduces the challenges associated with high turnover. Leadership implements intentional project management practices that keep workloads manageable and sustainable. Building a positive company culture that values long-term employee development over short-term profits is essential for engineering talent retention and maintaining continuity. Firms avoid creating a grind environment by prioritizing realistic project timelines, distributing workloads equitably, and ensuring that the engineering team is not overloaded. This allows engineers to stay engaged, motivated, and productive. Employees are motivated to stay long-term when they are respected, given meaningful work, and offered a balance between their personal and professional lives. Small actions, such as allowing employees to finish work on time, build trust and loyalty. Engineering firms maintain profitability by focusing on specialized services, allowing them to charge higher rates for their expertise. Clear communication with clients and valuing the team’s well-being help create a sustainable and pr...

    44 min

  7. 7 OCT

    How to Utilize Steel Castings in Modern Construction – Ep 139

    In this episode, we talk with Carlos de Oliveira, MASc., P. Eng., president and CEO of Cast Connex, and Michael Gray, Ph.D., P. Eng., executive vice president at Cast Connex, about their journey in revolutionizing connection design engineering through custom steel castings. They discuss key projects like the MSG Sphere and NASA's Mobile Launcher 2, as well as how their use of non-linear finite element analysis sets them apart. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Carlos and Michael: What inspired you to create Cast Connex, and how did you overcome the early challenges of launching a company centered on disruptive technology? What motivated your focus on steel castings in building construction, and what key advantages does this technology bring to the industry? How does your application of non-linear finite element analysis contribute to developing innovative structural solutions? Could you describe Cast Connex's involvement in the MSG Sphere project in Las Vegas and highlight any unique challenges you encountered? Can you provide an overview of the Mobile Launcher 2 project for NASA's Artemis Program and explain the role Cast Connex played in its execution? How do you envision the future of steel castings in construction, and what role do you see them playing as the industry evolves? What are the next steps for Cast Connex as the company continues to grow and innovate? What advice would you offer to young engineers starting their careers in today's industry? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Utilize Steel Castings in Modern Construction: Cast Connex was created out of a desire to provide innovative solutions in connection design engineering through the use of custom steel castings. The early challenges were overcome by carefully managing growth and learning from initial projects. The team partnered with forward-thinking clients who were willing to embrace new technologies. This combination of strategic pacing and innovative collaboration allowed Cast Connex to stand out, offering material efficiency and design flexibility. The focus on steel castings in building construction came from their unique ability to provide both design flexibility and material efficiency. Cast Connex controls the alloy composition and heat treatments of its castings, allowing for customization to meet specific project requirements. This enhances the strength and durability of connections, offering a more efficient and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional connection methods. Non-linear finite element analysis (FEA) plays a crucial role in Cast Connex’s ability to model complex forces and optimize structural components under high stress. This advanced tool allows the company to ensure that its castings meet rigorous performance standards, leading to the development of innovative and functional structural designs that solve complex engineering challenges. In the MSG Sphere project, Cast Connex was responsible for designing CNC-machined nodes with precise geometric tolerances to ensure the correct alignment of exterior LED panels. One of the unique challenges encountered was the desert’s extreme temperature fluctuations, which required the structure to be surveyed twice daily and shims to be used to maintain accuracy. Cast Connex's steel castings were crucial for reducing risks, ensuring precise fabrication and erection, and lowering overall project costs. For NASA’s Mobile Launcher 2 project, Cast Connex was tasked with designing structural connections that were both stronger and lighter to meet the demands of launching powerful rockets. The team used its casting process to create complex, internally structured nodal connections with precise tolerances.

    38 min

  8. 17 SEPT

    How to Build Better Connections in Your Early Engineering Career – Ep 138

    In this episode, we speak with Tsandi Chen, EIT, structural engineer at HDR, about the value of in-person work, building better connections, leveraging LinkedIn to engage with senior engineers, and balancing technical details with big-picture thinking through smart questions. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Tsandi: What was your experience like working in an office as a new professional, and do you think it's essential for engineers to get office experience right after finishing school? How have you built relationships across different disciplines throughout your career, and what advice would you give young engineers to develop strong interdisciplinary connections? What strategies have you used on platforms like LinkedIn to successfully connect with senior engineers and industry leaders, and how did these interactions help you grow? How has your ability to ask insightful questions evolved over your career, and why do you think this skill is crucial for early-career engineers? What methods did you use to stay accountable early in your career, and what tips would you share with others in their early 20’s? How do you balance focusing on the details of structural design while maintaining a broader understanding of the industry, including both big-picture and finer aspects of your work? How do you determine which experiences are valuable for your growth, and how have you shaped your purpose in the field of structural engineering? What is the most important piece of advice you would offer to those just starting their engineering careers? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Build Better Connections in Your Early Engineering Career: In-person work is valuable for early-career engineers, as it allows for faster learning through quick access to senior staff for feedback and improves communication skills. It also helps engineers adapt to company culture more easily, encouraging growth and stronger connections. Building relationships across disciplines is key for engineers, especially when working closely with architects and other professionals. Attending industry events and engaging with professionals outside of the office can provide valuable insights into different perspectives, helping engineers understand trends, challenges, and how to communicate more effectively across fields. Cold contacting professionals, especially senior engineers, can feel intimidating, but many are more generous with their time than expected. Persistence and showing genuine interest by asking thoughtful, specific questions can lead to valuable learning opportunities and help build strong connections in the industry. Asking smart questions starts with being clear about what you know and what you don't, which helps project managers provide the right guidance and enhances overall communication. This approach not only improves understanding but also demonstrates humility and a willingness to learn, which is crucial for growth in any discipline. Holding yourself accountable early in your career is key to long-term success, and finding an accountability partner can help keep you on track with your goals. It's important to balance all areas of life, work, health, and personal relationships, since they all influence your overall performance and growth. Balancing detailed structural design with a broader industry perspective helps engineers become more well-rounded and effective team members. By thinking about the bigger picture and how different disciplines and trends affect a project, engineers can contribute to better collaboration and more informed decision-making, benefiting both the project and the community it serves. Finding your "why" in structural engineering starts with identifying what interests you and exploring d...

    40 min
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The Structural Engineering Channel (TSEC) focuses on helping structural engineering professionals stay up to date on technical trends in the field. Our hosts for the show, Mathew Picardal, PE, and Cara Green, EIT interviews engineers ranging from recent engineering graduates to professionals from top engineering organizations on professional development topics for structural engineers to facilitate career advancement. Topics covered include but are not limited to performance-based design, fasteners and connections, post-tensioned structures, smart structures, tsunami modelling, earthquake engineering, software solutions, seismic design, blast resistant design, wood, business issues and professional development for structural engineers, how to specify things effectively, and more.

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