324 episodes

The Engineering Career Coach (TECC) Podcast provides career advice to engineers of all ages and experience levels. Our host for the show, Anthony Fasano, PE and Jeff Perry, MBA interviews engineers ranging from recent engineering graduates to professionals from top engineering organizations on different engineering career goals and challenges.



Each show includes a live coaching session with an engineer on real career challenges, and an engineer career-changing tip. Topics covered include but are not limited to job search, goal setting, finding a mentor, communication skills, public speaking, networking, organizational skills, productivity, leadership and more.

The Engineering Career Coach Podcast Anthony Fasano, PE and Jeff Perry, MBA

    • Business
    • 4.7 • 89 Ratings

The Engineering Career Coach (TECC) Podcast provides career advice to engineers of all ages and experience levels. Our host for the show, Anthony Fasano, PE and Jeff Perry, MBA interviews engineers ranging from recent engineering graduates to professionals from top engineering organizations on different engineering career goals and challenges.



Each show includes a live coaching session with an engineer on real career challenges, and an engineer career-changing tip. Topics covered include but are not limited to job search, goal setting, finding a mentor, communication skills, public speaking, networking, organizational skills, productivity, leadership and more.

    TECC 324: The Traits That Define a Successful Tech Entrepreneur

    TECC 324: The Traits That Define a Successful Tech Entrepreneur

    In this episode, we talk with Peter Schroeder about his journey as a tech entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned in starting and growing a business, the importance of leadership and management, and the traits that set a successful tech entrepreneur apart. Peter also provides advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and emphasizes the need for a sales-focused team member.



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

    Engineering Quotes:







    Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About the Traits That Define a Successful Tech Entrepreneur:





    Guided by an entrepreneurial flair and contending with attention deficit disorder, Peter transitioned into business following burnout from an intense DJing career. Frustrated by the absence of a fitting phone line system, he embarked on building it himself, morphing a personal endeavor into a thriving business. With support from his partner, Peter invested, bidding farewell to a flourishing music career a decade ago and embracing entrepreneurship wholeheartedly.

    Don't force a business just for the sake of it; rather, explore what genuinely interests you. If there's a hobby you love, consider turning it into a business. Making money from something you're passionate about can turn it into a fulfilling and sustainable way of life.

    Embarking on the venture with limited funds, Peter sought significant investments but encountered challenges in the competitive telecom landscape. With modest support, he started small, tailoring services to startups and adapting them based on customer needs. This approach proved fruitful, drawing in major clients like Facebook and Netflix. The lesson from Peter's journey: initiate with modesty, focus on a niche, and reinvest strategically for consistent and sustainable growth.

    At 22, Peter, unaware of his ADD diagnosis, struggled with overcommitting and wanting to help everyone. Juggling a band, a record label, and numerous projects strained his capacity, leading to burned bridges. An agent's intervention prompted a reset, teaching the importance of knowing limits, saying no when needed, and maintaining focus to preserve relationships.

    Recognize the power of mentorship. Someone in your corner, offering real-world insights, can be a game-changer. Even with a strong work ethic, having a mentor who genuinely wishes you success accelerates your journey. Professional support is valuable, but finding someone who roots for your success is key. Learn from others who've benefited and consider the impact a mentor can have on your goals.

    Jesper Green, Peter's former manager and an accomplished DJ, played a crucial role in his early career. From learning technical skills during club gigs to gaining insights into artist promotion, Jesper unknowingly became a mentor. Despite the distance, their friendship endures, highlighting the profound impact a supportive mentor can have on one's journey.

    When it comes to moving forward, Peter's eye is on honing leadership skills, streamlining the team through automation and building a culture where everyone's passion fuels projects. The goal is to hit meaningful milestones, driving growth personally and in the business.

    Successful entrepreneurs stand out due to their unwavering stubbornness, turning setbacks into motivation, and their positive, slightly naive mindset that believes in success even in challenging ventures. This unique blend of determination and optimism is a key factor that distinguishes them, enabling them to navigate the hurdles of entrepreneurship and achieve success where others may falter.

    In his 10-year journey in the industry, Peter stays excited about his evolving product, especially with the integration of AI. While he's committed for now, Peter looks forward to exploring different business ideas and rejects the idea of retirement.

    • 32 min
    TECC 323: Effective Strategies for Thriving in Hardware and Software Industries

    TECC 323: Effective Strategies for Thriving in Hardware and Software Industries

    In this episode, we talk with Vinod Narayan, senior software engineer and project manager at Viviota, about effective strategies for excelling in both hardware and software fields. Vinod also provides some great advice on leading diverse teams in complex engineering projects.



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

    Engineering Quotes:







    Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Effective Strategies for Thriving in Hardware and Software Industries:





    Engineers who are deciding between a technical or management path can see a straightforward difference. Technical roles are all about solving problems, while management is more about building teams and making strategic decisions. Talk to mentors and leaders and try out short-term initiatives to figure out what suits you best. Choose the path that aligns with your interests for a satisfying career journey.

    In handling projects and teams, important skills include good communication, active listening, and problem-solving. Project management needs organizational skills for planning and budgeting, while people management involves creating a positive atmosphere, refining leadership, and supporting recognition and development. Success in both areas relies on a versatile skill set covering communication, problem-solving, organization, and leadership.

    Managing diverse teams in complex projects demands key strategies. Regular check-ins and effective communication are vital for teams with different backgrounds. Encouraging cultural awareness contributes to a positive environment while recognizing diverse skill sets enhances team effectiveness. Viewing diversity as an asset brings valuable perspectives for strategic decision-making. These proven techniques successfully navigate complexities in diverse teams and complex projects.

    In the next five to 10 years, the tech landscape will see a fusion of hardware and software. In hardware, expect advancements in AI, the metaverse, connectivity, energy-efficient tech, and medical devices. These areas offer promising career opportunities. In software, AI, metaverse-driven apps, cloud innovations, and cybersecurity measures will take center stage, shaping the digital future.



    More in This Episode…

    In the Take Action Today segment of the show, Vinod provides actionable suggestions for individuals aspiring to be in leadership roles.

    About the Guest, Vinod Narayan

    Vinod Narayan is a highly skilled technology leader with extensive expertise in digital computing, electrical hardware, and software. His areas of specialization include analog mixed-signal design, RF IC design, and high-speed I/O design. He is proficient in data converters such as ADCs and DACs and has a deep understanding of frequency synthesizers, clock data recovery circuits, and oscillators. Vinod also excels in power management circuits and has a strong background in hardware/PCB design and system design.



    His expertise extends to testing, validation, and automation, with proficiency in LabVIEW, Python, and C, particularly in data structures and algorithms. In the realm of software, Vinod has experience in web development, software architecture, and Rest API frameworks. He is adept at agile development and project management and is well-versed in best practices for hardware and software development.



    Vinod's career includes notable positions such as a Senior Software Engineer and Project Manager at Viviota since November 2021, and as Electrical Engineering Principal Consultant at Meta from November 2021 to November 2023. His educational background includes a master’s in electrical and computer engineering from McMaster University and a bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Controls, and Instrumentation Engineering from the University of Mumbai (2004-2008). His combined experience and education make him an...

    • 32 min
    TECC 322: High-Performance Leadership Strategies for Engineers

    TECC 322: High-Performance Leadership Strategies for Engineers

    In this episode, we talk with Alan Stein, Jr., a former basketball performance coach turned corporate keynote speaker, and author of "Raise Your Game", about the application of high-performance leadership principles across diverse aspects of life. He emphasizes the importance of fundamentals and never getting bored with them. He also shares a story about meeting Kobe Bryant and how Bryant's dedication to mastering the basics influenced his approach to personal and professional growth.



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

    Engineering Quotes:







    Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About High-Performance Leadership Strategies for Engineers:





    Universal success principles work in every area of life — be it work, family, or community leadership. No need to mimic specific skills; apply these principles for personal and organizational growth. They must not only be preached but lived in all aspects of life.

    In 2007, Alan and Kobe Bryant crossed paths at the Nike Skills Academy, where Alan grasped the enduring lesson of valuing fundamental skills. This idea extends beyond basketball, resonating in professions like engineering, advocating for mastery of basics as the pathway to excellence.

    Beyond avoiding boredom with basics, two key principles emerge: earn confidence by mastering basics with humility and trust the process by focusing on daily precision rather than obsessing over the end goal. Success lies in laying each brick carefully, not fixating on the entire wall.

    Unlike finite games like basketball, business is an infinite game without a clear endpoint. The key is defining what winning means for each team member and aligning everyone with the goal. Success involves individual responsibility in roles and taking actions that move the team closer to the defined goal. High-performing organizations excel in collaboration and cohesiveness.

    Distractions are inevitable in the digital age, so align your workspace with your focus goals — turn off phones and close unnecessary tabs. Stay aware of when you're unfocused and use "WIN" (What's Important Now) as a tool to recalibrate. Regularly assess if your attention matches the moment's priorities to increase your chances of success.

    Acknowledging feedback as a valuable tool for improvement, embrace the "next play" mindset to swiftly move past setbacks and avoid dwelling on past mistakes. Learn from experiences, like technical glitches, by seamlessly transitioning to the next task to stay focused on the present.

    The "next play" mentality, universally useful, is a quick approach to overcoming setbacks. Clear challenges like a whiteboard to prevent a tough morning from affecting the afternoon. Cultivate this crucial ability, which is applicable across various roles and positions.



    More in This Episode…

    In the Take Action Today segment of the show, Alan talks about the importance of simplifying life and decision-making.

    About the Guest, Alan Stein, Jr.

    At his core, Alan Stein, Jr. is a performance coach with a passion for helping business leaders change behaviors. He spent 15+ years working with the highest-performing basketball players on the planet (including NBA superstars Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, and Kobe Bryant). He now transfers his unique expertise to maximize both individual and organizational performance. Alan is a dynamic storyteller who delivers practical, actionable lessons that can be implemented immediately. He teaches proven principles on how to simplify success and utilize the same approaches in business that elite athletes use to perform at a world-class level.

    About the Host, Jeff Perry, MBA

    Jeff Perry is a leadership/career coach for engineers, building mindsets, leadership, and career intentions to unlock hidden potential and remove self-imposed roadblocks for career and...

    • 33 min
    TECC 321: How Communication Skills Can Propel Your Engineering Career Forward

    TECC 321: How Communication Skills Can Propel Your Engineering Career Forward

    In this episode, we talk with Farnoosh Brock about the importance of leadership and engineering communication skills. She emphasizes the need for engineers to close the gap between technical and leadership skills to advance in their careers. Farnoosh highlights the significance of confidence and voice in effective communication and leadership. She also discusses the role of mindset in professional development and provides strategies for building confidence and improving communication skills. Farnoosh encourages engineers to have conversations on issues they avoid taking action on and improve their skills.



    The video version of this episode can be viewed here.

    Engineering Quotes:







    Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How Communication Skills Can Propel Your Engineering Career Forward:





    Engineers initially rely on intelligence and hard work, but to excel in advanced roles, connecting beyond the technical is crucial. Mastering communication, leadership, emotional intelligence, and confidence is essential for lasting success and impactful contributions.

    Understanding the importance of good leadership and communication skills is important. If there was a time you felt not appreciated after not getting a promised promotion and found it hard to respond without causing issues, then getting better at these skills is a must. Being able to handle these conversations well is key to staying motivated and making sure your career moves forward successfully.

    Engineers, whether in technical or management roles, need strong leadership skills. Executives often seek confidence in communication from engineers at higher levels. It's crucial to build confidence in both speaking and writing, especially for introverted engineers. In essence, honing confidence and voice mastery is foundational for engineers to boost their leadership skills significantly.

    When tackling mindset challenges, watch out for absolute terms like "I never" or "I always," which indicate a fixed mindset limiting opportunities. Instead, adopt a curiosity mindset using phrases like "I wonder" and "I'm curious about." This shift encourages openness to possibilities, making you more at ease, taking calculated risks, and creating opportunities for success. It's a way to break free from self-imposed limitations and unlock your true potential.

    To communicate better, begin with a clear summary, avoid assuming shared knowledge, and test your approach with non-tech individuals. Boost confidence by practicing presentations regularly in different settings, building assurance with each action.

    To improve your leadership and communication skills quickly, look at your company's internal resources like leadership programs and retreats. Advocating for participation aligns with company support, potentially boosting performance reviews and career advancement. Focus on areas like emotional intelligence within these internal resources for effective skill development. Starting with accessible internal options is a practical and impactful way to enhance your skills.



    More in This Episode…

    In the Take Action Today segment of the show, Farnoosh talks about how to address and navigate challenging conversations that you have been avoiding.

    About the Guest, Farnoosh Brock

    Farnoosh Brock is an electrical engineer (BS and MS) with a 12-year corporate IT career plus 13 years as a coach, trainer, and speaker. She started her company in 2011 to help engineering and IT professionals elevate their success with Mindset, Leadership, and Communication skills. Her latest book, “The Serving Mindset,” and her Google Talk share a refreshing approach to business growth without selling. She regularly does workshops at universities such as Johns Hopkins, Northwestern, Duke, Wake Forest, Campbell, and James Madison as well as in corporate and for associations...

    • 28 min
    TECC 320: How a Young Professionals Group Can Shape Your Engineering Future

    TECC 320: How a Young Professionals Group Can Shape Your Engineering Future

    In this episode, we talk with Lisa Nourse, Talent Acquisition Manager; Hannah Newhard, P.E., PTOE, Traffic Engineer; Nicholas Teach, Transportation Engineer; and Curt Grass, Senior Engineer, about the impact and role of the Young Professionals Group (YPG) at Stanley Consultants, exploring its influence on the development and success of young professionals in the engineering field.

    Engineering Quotes:

























    Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How a Young Professionals Group Can Shape Your Engineering Future:





    Stanly Consultants is unique in recruiting with a special internship program. Each intern gets a personal mentor, plus there are lunch and learns, exposure to different managers, and final presentations to share experiences.

    The Young Professionals Group at Stanley Consultants consists of the company's younger members, aiming to enhance retention and engagement. Focused on career development and education initiatives, the group works toward creating a better working experience for young members at Stanley.

    At Stanley Consultants, the Young Professionals Group is structured around four pillars. Development and mentoring focus on education for young professionals, covering various topics. Technology and innovation encourage innovative thinking and address company issues. Network engagement promotes social and professional connections across offices.

    Since 2018, the group has evolved positively, working with Pillars and leaders to enhance the overall experience. They revamped recruiting, engaging younger members, and redesigning career fairs. Successful initiatives formed early connections with interns, while the network engagement pillar played a key role in reconnecting people through office activities amid challenges like COVID, shaping a vibrant office culture.

    Stanly Consultants won the Campus Forward Award for the second year, recognizing their dedication to innovative talent acquisition. The award highlights their commitment to excellence, attracting diverse top-tier talent. Their focus on diversity and inclusive partnerships with universities enhances internship programs, contributing to their ongoing success.

    The mentorship program, part of the development and mentoring pillar, has proven impactful. Pairing young professionals with mentors from diverse disciplines, such as traffic engineering and environmental science, it provides valuable cross-disciplinary insights, contributing significantly to professional development.

    Nick stumbled upon the young member group during a visiting member's office visit in 2018. Seeking career feedback and mentorship, he found it to be an ideal space for growth. Volunteering for leadership roles, Nick served as YP chair and is excited about the group's progress and opportunities for young professionals as new leaders take over.

    Ensuring knowledge continuity is key at Stanley Consultants. The company focuses on passing on lessons to newcomers, pairing them with various professionals for a comprehensive understanding. This not only benefits new professionals but also serves as a legacy for senior engineers, creating a special relationship where both learn from each other. This commitment to knowledge transfer has contributed to Stanley's sustainability and ongoing success for over 110 years.

    Participating in programs like these offers young engineers opportunities to lead, develop new ideas, and connect with senior leaders. It builds essential skills like communication and agenda-setting, not just benefiting the company but also making a broader impact in the community. This early involvement provides a jump-start in developing skills crucial for future leadership roles in professional organizations and other companies.



    More in This Episode…

    • 28 min
    TECC 319: The Pros and Cons of Using Aluminum in Sustainability

    TECC 319: The Pros and Cons of Using Aluminum in Sustainability

    In this episode, we talk with Prof. Saleem H. Ali, Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Geography and Spatial Sciences and the Blue & Gold Distinguished Professor of Energy and the Environment at the University of Delaware (USA), about the critical role of aluminum in sustainability, its ecological impacts, and effective strategies for engineers seeking the delicate balance between project profitability and sustainability within their organizations.



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

    Engineering Quotes:







    Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About the Pros and Cons of Using Aluminum in Sustainability:





    In sustainable consumption, the goal is to grasp where materials in everyday items, like electronic devices, come from and their impacts. This means looking into how extraction affects the environment and communities to make smarter choices and push for sustainable supply chains.

    The book, "Soil to Foil: Aluminum and the Quest for Industrial Sustainability" uncovers the fascinating journey of aluminum, a metal abundant in the Earth's crust but uniquely challenging to use industrially. From delayed isolation to becoming a staple in products like laptops, cars, and packaging, the book explores aluminum's paradoxical role in our everyday lives.

    The challenge of aluminum in sustainability lies in its energy-intensive extraction due to strong bonds with oxygen. To address this, major smelters, such as Alcoa, strategically position themselves near hydropower sources. This illustrates the crucial link between sustainable energy and aluminum production.

    Aluminum's energy-intensive extraction promotes recycling, a vital sustainability factor. Bauxite mining, crucial for aluminum, often affects regions like the Caribbean, altering landscapes and impacting agriculture. The complexities include both negative consequences and positive aspects, such as technological advancements and employment opportunities in places like Quebec's Arvida, aiming for a balanced understanding of aluminum's impact, and recognizing challenges and contributions.

    Bauxite, the primary ore for aluminum, is mainly found in tropical regions such as Jamaica, Suriname, and Guyana, with the largest reserves in Guinea, West Africa.

    In engineering, it's vital to consider the entire life cycle of materials. Tools like life cycle analysis help assess impacts from extraction to reuse. Engineers should focus on modular and easily disassembled designs for efficient material extraction. Beyond recycling, emphasis on remanufacturing reduces the overall footprint by reusing devices constructively. This approach encourages sustainable engineering practice with available resources.

    Engineers need to think long-term, understanding that a company's reputation relies on its sustainability practices. Considering the triple bottom line (people, profits, and the planet) is essential. Engineers should optimize their projects, factoring in not just traditional variables but also environmental and social impacts.



    More in This Episode…

    In the Take Action Today segment of the show, Saleem talks about how engineers can consider the origin of materials in their projects.

    About the Guest, Prof. Saleem H. Ali, Ph.D.

    Saleem H. Ali is Chair of the Department of Geography and Spatial Sciences and the Blue & Gold Distinguished Professor of Energy and the Environment at the University of Delaware (USA). He also serves as Lead for Critical Metals and Inclusive Energy Transitions at the United Nations University's Institute for Water, Environment and Health and is a member of the United Nations International Resource Panel. Before embarking on an academic career, Prof. Ali worked as an environmental health and safety professional at General Electric Corporation.



    Born in New Bedford,

    • 22 min

Customer Reviews

4.7 out of 5
89 Ratings

89 Ratings

JakeJik ,

Andrew Temte Episode

What a great episode for a senior engineer on the path to building a leadership, learning, and development influence within a great company.

I got some homework to do from that episode that will definitely help me on my quest.

Keep the good content coming.

Sabribritas ,

Inspiring!

As a engineering college student, I found these tips on communication skills to be helpful and inspiring. They reminded me to maintain direct eye contact when engaging with others and be “more interested than interesting”. This podcast definitely boosted my confidence in pursuing a successful engineering career.

Neil I Thompson ,

Kudos to the host!

Jeff is an excellent host, as it shows that he takes time to ask thoughtful questions of his guests. Because of this, it’s difficult for the guests to offer cookie-cutter answers. The answers necessarily must have depth.

Top Podcasts In Business

The Ramsey Show
Ramsey Network
Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin
Money News Network
The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett
DOAC
NerdWallet's Smart Money Podcast
NerdWallet Personal Finance
Planet Money
NPR
The Money Mondays
Dan Fleyshman

You Might Also Like

Up First
NPR
Today, Explained
Vox
Stuff You Should Know
iHeartPodcasts
Hidden Brain
Hidden Brain, Shankar Vedantam
Planet Money
NPR
The Ken Coleman Show
Ramsey Network