The AEC Project Management Podcast

Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
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The AEC Project Management Podcast

The AEC Engineering Project Management Podcast (AECPM) provides engineering career advice and success stories for project managers in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Civil engineer and project manager Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM hosts the podcast, which highlights engineering project managers and professionals.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Practical Advice for Better Stakeholder Communication in AEC Project Management – Ep 062

    In this episode, I discuss how regular stakeholder communication is essential for preventing delays, minimizing conflicts, and ensuring project success. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Practical Advice for Better Stakeholder Communication in AEC Project Management: Project management serves as the cornerstone of achieving rapid, sustainable growth in the AEC industry. When executed effectively, it drives successful project outcomes, increases profitability, and ensures optimal resource utilization across both public and private sectors. Effective project management depends on clear communication and proactive alignment among all stakeholders. Regular updates and check-ins build trust, prevent conflicts, and ensure that project changes are addressed seamlessly, keeping projects on track and stakeholders engaged. Strong stakeholder communication is critical for project success, with clarity, trust, and early issue resolution as its core elements. Establishing consistent communication practices not only prevents costly delays but also strengthens client relationships, ensuring repeat business and long-term growth for AEC firms. Establishing a clear communication plan at the start of a project lays the foundation for smooth collaboration and minimizes delays. Utilizing tools like shared spreadsheets or project management platforms ensures stakeholders can access critical updates efficiently, promoting alignment and reducing unnecessary meetings. Tailoring communication to the needs of the audience ensures messages are effective and actionable. Clients may prefer high-level summaries, while technical teams require detailed specifics—understanding these preferences from the start helps achieve project success. Documenting every decision and agreement is essential to protect the project and avoid costly disputes. Clear records ensure accountability and simplify addressing extra work or changes without confusion or delays. Proactive communication is a cornerstone of successful project management, ensuring stakeholders remain informed and aligned. Simple practices like regular updates help prevent misunderstandings, reduce unnecessary inquiries, and strengthen professional relationships for smoother project outcomes. Effective stakeholder communication relies on five key strategies: establish a clear communication plan, leverage collaborative technology, tailor messages to the audience, document everything, and listen more than speak. Applying even a few of these strategies leads to better project outcomes, stronger relationships, and a more proactive management approach. More Details in This Episode… Sources/References: Microsoft Teams Asana BIM 360 We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on better stakeholder communication in AEC project management. Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.

    17 min

  2. JAN 13

    How ABET Accreditation Quickly Helps You Spot Remarkably Outstanding Talent – Ep 061

    In this episode, I talk with Hamid Fonooni, Ph.D., CPE, F.ABET, 2023-24 ABET president and director of the ergonomics program at the University of California-Davis, and Suzanne Beckstoffer, chair of the ABET Industry Advisory Council, about how ABET accreditation helps hiring managers identify top talent and overcome the unique challenges of the AEC sector. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Hamid and Suzanne: What are the biggest challenges technical hiring managers in the AEC industry face when balancing production goals, budgets, deadlines, and effective talent acquisition? How does ABET accreditation help hiring managers identify top talent equipped to meet the technical and project management demands of AEC roles? What is the value of ABET accreditation for AEC firms in maintaining high employee morale and ensuring long-term resource stability? How can AEC hiring managers use ABET accreditation to attract and retain talent amidst competitive hiring pressures? How can collaboration between AEC hiring managers and ABET improve workforce readiness and support long-term success in engineering project delivery? What advice can help AEC hiring managers strategically use ABET accreditation to address talent challenges and improve project outcomes? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How ABET Accreditation Quickly Helps You Spot Remarkably Outstanding Talent: Hiring managers in the AEC industry face significant challenges balancing tight budgets, deadlines, and the need for highly skilled talent. Strategic hiring decisions, supported by tools like ABET accreditation, ensure quality candidates while minimizing risks associated with short-term compromises. ABET accreditation plays a critical role in ensuring engineering and technical programs deliver high-quality education that meets industry standards. Hiring graduates from ABET-accredited programs allows managers to confidently select candidates equipped with the skills required to meet technical and project management demands. ABET accreditation provides AEC firms with a clear advantage by ensuring they hire graduates with globally recognized technical skills and competencies. This improves employee morale, secures long-term resource stability, and reduces risks and costs tied to uncertain hiring outcomes. Establishing relationships with ABET-accredited institutions connects AEC firms to top talent and creates a steady supply of skilled graduates. Collaborating through internships, scholarships, and industry advisory boards strengthens these connections and aligns educational programs with industry needs, making firms more appealing to potential hires. Mentoring and industry collaboration play a critical role in developing successful engineering professionals. By building connections with universities and supporting initiatives like internships and mentorship programs, AEC firms improve workforce readiness and achieve long-term success in project delivery. ABET accreditation sets a consistent standard for engineering education, ensuring graduates possess the skills needed for success in the industry. Partnering with ABET-accredited programs enables AEC firms to strategically address talent challenges, improve workforce development, and achieve high-quality project outcomes. More Details in This Episode… About Hamid Fonooni, Ph.D., CPE, F.ABET Hamid Fonooni, Ph.D., CPE, F.ABET, (ABET President): currently serving as the director of the ergonomics program in occupational health services at the University of California-Davis. Prior to his appointment at UC Davis, he served as the director of the master of science in occupational safety...

    40 min

  3. 12/30/2024

    Practical Strategies That Will Make You a Better Project Manager – Ep 060

    In this episode, I talk with Laura Barnard, PMP, CAL, Prosci, IES, founder and chief IMPACT Driver of PMO Strategies, about key principles to help project managers drive impactful, value-focused results. We share practical strategies to maximize outcomes and actionable tips to elevate your project management skills. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Laura: What key principles should project managers follow to lead meaningful business transformations? How can project managers help their teams adapt effectively to evolving business priorities? What common challenges do teams face during transformative projects, and how can they overcome them? What strategies can project managers use to clearly communicate project value across their organizations? How can project managers in architecture and engineering help their teams focus on delivering real business value beyond just timelines and budgets? Can you give an overview of the impact engine and how it helps teams consistently deliver strategic business results? What advice do you have for project managers to empower their teams and keep them focused on driving meaningful impact? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Practical Strategies That Will Make You a Better Project Manager: Project managers focus on bridging technical and business perspectives, aligning efforts, and driving strategic goals. Prioritizing flexibility, a value-driven mindset, and clear communication ensures that efforts remain centered on meaningful outcomes, accelerating transformation. By aligning their work with overarching business goals rather than rigidly adhering to time, scope, and cost constraints, project managers build adaptability. Involving stakeholders in decision-making and maintaining flexibility keeps teams responsive to changing needs while delivering meaningful outcomes. Teams often encounter inefficiencies from excessive processes, misaligned priorities, and resource strain. Simplifying workflows, reducing unnecessary meetings, and maintaining clarity on goals enable teams to concentrate on high-impact tasks, resolve bottlenecks, and deliver results effectively. Effective communication requires simplifying updates to focus on driving decisions and actions, while avoiding excessive data or unnecessary meetings. By presenting progress in terms of strategic goals and meaningful outcomes, project managers ensure alignment and clarity across stakeholders. Clearly defining success criteria and aligning efforts with organizational goals ensures teams prioritize outcomes that matter. Regularly revisiting these goals in updates and meetings emphasizes their importance and keeps teams focused on value-driven results rather than just completing tasks. The Impact Engine offers a structured framework to identify root causes of challenges, prioritize critical tasks, and deliver continuous value. By addressing problems iteratively, building trust with stakeholders, and aligning efforts with strategic goals, it helps teams create long-term impact while solving key business issues effectively. Project managers collaborate with teams to achieve shared goals and outcomes rather than imposing changes. By solving real business problems, creating a sense of ownership, and aligning efforts with organizational objectives, teams advance progress and stay motivated to deliver meaningful results. More Details in This Episode… About Laura Barnard, PMP, CAL, Prosci, IES Laura Barnard holds certifications in project management, agile leadership, and change management and is the creator of the IMPACT System, which transforms teams into nimble,

    41 min

  4. 12/16/2024

    How Combining Engineering and Architecture Skills Can Create Better Projects – Ep 059

    In this episode, I talk with Jamison Morse, P.E., R.A., principal and director of buildings + structures at PVE-LLC at PVE, LLC, about how the dual expertise of engineering and architecture shapes dynamic project management and drives the core elements of successful AEC projects. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Jamison: How has your experience as both an engineer and architect influenced how you manage AEC projects? How do you ensure BIM and other technologies align with your team’s project management goals? What strategies do you use to handle regulatory compliance challenges like New York City’s local laws 11 and 37? How do you balance innovative architectural design with structural integrity when working with engineering and architecture teams? How do you manage inspections, repairs, and restorations of aging infrastructure while addressing time, cost, and safety concerns? Will the software you’re developing stay in-house, or do you plan to license it to other firms? What lessons from managing diverse teams can help AEC project managers improve communication and coordination? What final piece of advice would you give AEC project managers for leading successful projects and building strong client relationships? What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a project manager, and how would you recommend solving it? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Combining Engineering and Architecture Skills Can Create Better Projects: Leveraging dual expertise enables professionals to understand diverse roles within a project and align them for cohesive teamwork. By committing to long-term growth, leaders build comprehensive knowledge that enhances team performance and positions them to guide projects effectively. Equipping team members with tools aligned to their strengths and providing targeted training ensures the effective use of BIM and other technologies. Clear systems and consistent teamwork drive innovation and align efforts with project goals. Offering free educational seminars and utilizing automated systems like checklists and reporting tools ensures compliance processes remain straightforward and organized. These methods minimize errors, promote consistency, and elevate team efficiency in regulatory work. Aligning team strengths and encouraging collaboration ensures designs achieve both creativity and structural soundness. Providing resources for innovation and enabling open communication helps professionals deliver practical and visionary solutions. Creating innovative tools streamlines inspections and decision-making, reducing time and costs while maintaining safety and quality. Refining these tools over time improves efficiency and supports industry-wide progress by addressing evolving challenges. Sharing internally developed tools with other firms strengthens collaboration and elevates industry standards. By focusing on continuous improvement and accessibility, these innovations tackle shared challenges in infrastructure and project management. Bringing teams together in person builds trust, connection, and open communication. Face-to-face interaction is crucial for aligning perspectives, resolving challenges, and building a unified and effective team. Establishing trust through accountability and prioritizing humanity over shortcuts is essential for long-term success. Strong relationships grow when professionals emphasize consistent improvement, transparent communication, and meaningful collaboration. A significant challenge is avoiding burnout while addressing numerous issues simultaneously. The solution lies in prioritizing tasks,

    35 min

  5. 12/04/2024

    Blending Technical Expertise and Leadership for Professional Growth – Ep 058

    In this episode, I talk with Tejal Patel, P.E., CME, LEED AP, associate and client manager at T&M Associates, about balancing technical expertise with leadership and client relationships. We dive into strategies for managing teams, transitioning into business development, and driving long-term success. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Tejal: What strategies do you use to balance technical accuracy with meeting deadlines, budgets, and client expectations? In what ways can you make the most of your team's strengths while keeping an eye on the bigger picture as a leader? How has your technical background helped you earn clients' trust in business development, and what challenges have you faced along the way? What challenges have you encountered moving from junior engineer to project manager and business developer, and what lessons have you learned about adaptability? Can you share your approach to explaining complex technical ideas to clients in simple terms and how strong client relationships have benefited your work? What methods do you use to help young engineers grow their technical and leadership skills while promoting innovation and business success? What final advice would you give AEC professionals on balancing technical work, project management, and business development while staying up to date with industry trends? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Blending Technical Expertise and Leadership for Professional Growth: Balancing technical accuracy with deadlines, budgets, and client expectations relies on leveraging team strengths and promoting open communication. Setting clear goals, conducting regular check-ins, and encouraging collaboration help maintain technical precision while meeting project constraints effectively. Recognizing and utilizing team members' unique skills strengthens collaboration and empowers them to take ownership of their work. Pairing this with clear goals and consistent communication ensures technical accuracy while allowing the team to remain creative and aligned with the project's overall vision. A strong technical foundation builds trust with clients by demonstrating expertise and addressing their concerns confidently. However, transitioning into business development also requires adaptability and continuous learning to bridge technical insights with strategic thinking and client relationship-building. The transition from junior engineer to project manager and business developer requires balancing technical expertise with leadership and strategic responsibilities. Embracing adaptability, seeking feedback, and continuously learning are essential for overcoming challenges and succeeding in these evolving roles. Simplifying complex technical concepts by using relatable language and avoiding jargon creates clear communication with clients. Building trust through transparent and respectful collaboration strengthens relationships, leading to repeat business and new opportunities. Mentoring young engineers includes gradually increasing their responsibilities, encouraging problem-solving, and building confidence through constructive feedback. By passing down knowledge and promoting innovation, leaders prepare the next generation to contribute to impactful and sustainable infrastructure projects. AEC professionals should emphasize clear communication, adaptability, and continuous learning to balance technical, managerial, and business roles effectively. Documenting experiences, staying connected with industry developments, and building collaborative relationships ensure long-term success and professional growth. More Details in This Episode…

    39 min

  6. 11/18/2024

    Streamline Your Project Data for Better Timelines and Results – Ep 057

    In this episode, I speak with Carl Veillette, chief product officer at Newforma, about addressing the AEC industry’s challenge of managing the overwhelming flow of project data and its effects on budgets, timelines, and collaboration. We also discuss actionable strategies to ensure information remains secure, accessible, and organized for smoother project outcomes. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Carl: How has the volume of project data evolved in the AEC industry? What are the main challenges that AEC firms face in managing and organizing all their project information? How does poor information management impact projects and organizations? How are AEC firms using tools like BIM, cloud computing, and AI to improve project delivery? What other security concerns exist around AEC information management and protecting data? Does Newforma’s software help firms stay compliant with agency requirements? How do AEC firms handle knowledge transfer and manage the loss of expertise when team members leave? What strategies would you recommend for firms to create an effective data strategy aligned with their business goals? What final piece of advice would you give to AEC professionals who want to excel in project information management? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Streamline Your Project Data for Better Timelines and Results: The volume of project data in the AEC industry grows significantly, especially with BIM technology simplifying document creation while adding complexity to data management. This growth makes it crucial for firms to adopt strategies for organizing and accessing information efficiently. AEC firms face challenges in managing and organizing data spread across various platforms and partner systems, making consolidation difficult. Establishing a unified project record across these systems proves essential to streamline project management and reduce risks associated with dispersed information. Poor information management hinders a firm’s ability to effectively use AI, predict outcomes, and access critical data during litigation, posing significant risks. Without organized, searchable archives, firms risk losing knowledge and increased project vulnerabilities. AEC firms leverage BIM as a core information source beyond 3D visuals, capturing project and unstructured data, while cloud computing and AI facilitate data accessibility and analysis. These tools together enhance project delivery by allowing firms to reduce risks, manage data volume, and streamline communication. Increasing security regulations across countries requires AEC firms to ensure data compliance and protection, especially for government or DoD projects. By utilizing on-premises, cloud, and regional cloud options, firms securely store data while addressing diverse regulatory requirements. Newforma’s software supports compliance through various deployment options — on-premises, cloud, and regionalized cloud hosting — designed to meet regulatory needs across different jurisdictions. This approach allows firms to manage data effectively while ensuring compliance with security and industry standards. AEC firms utilize searchable project archives to retain valuable knowledge and make it accessible to new team members. This approach preserves expertise and ensures project continuity, even as experienced staff leave the organization. Firms should begin by mapping project delivery processes and identifying the tools and partners involved to ensure a comprehensive project record. Implementing a strong data governance strategy, supported by staff education and clear communication guidelines,

    29 min

  7. 11/04/2024

    Debunking Myths About Program Management in AEC – Ep 056

    In this episode, I talk with Erin Slayton, P.E., DBIA, Env. SP, senior vice president and transportation program management director at HDR, as she debunks common misconceptions about program management in AEC and highlights its critical role in achieving project success. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Erin: What are some common misconceptions about program management in the AEC industry? How does program management add value to large transportation projects? When is the best time for an owner to bring in a program manager, and why does timing matter? Is program management typically focused on managing multiple projects, like a portfolio? Why do you think more clients are now seeking program management services? What career opportunities are available in program management? How has your career as an engineer been impacted by moving into program management? What final piece of advice would you give to AEC professionals interested in moving into program management? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About Debunking Myths About Program Management in AEC: A common misconception in the AEC industry suggests that program management is simply a scaled-up version of project management, where adding more resources suffices for larger projects. In reality, program management involves coordinating multiple interrelated projects with a focus on achieving broader outcomes, not just delivering specific infrastructure. Program management adds significant value to large transportation projects through a high-level, strategic approach that integrates all phases — from risk management to efficiency maximization. Through early coordination and alignment of interdisciplinary teams, program management addresses complex demands, optimizes resources, and enhances overall project outcomes. Bringing in a program manager as early as possible, ideally at the project’s inception, provides the best results. Early involvement allows program managers to set strategic direction, identify potential risks, and establish efficient processes, helping to reduce costs and prevent delays. Program management often entails overseeing multiple interconnected projects rather than a single one, akin to managing a portfolio. This approach emphasizes big-picture goals, ensuring that each project aligns with overarching objectives and contributes to the success of the entire program. The rising client demand for program management services stems from complex challenges like aging infrastructure, climate-related impacts, and new funding sources such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Program management supports clients in making informed decisions, navigating complex projects, and achieving resilience and efficiency. Program management offers diverse career opportunities across roles like project controls, procurement, design review, and environmental impact analysis. Professionals with skills in budget, schedule, and risk management, or backgrounds in engineering, planning, or construction, can thrive in these roles. Moving from engineering to program management expands an engineer’s perspective on large-scale project delivery, promoting skills in multidisciplinary collaboration, strategic problem-solving, and client alignment. This transition shifts the focus from technical solutions to orchestrating complex projects with an emphasis on achieving program-wide goals. AEC professionals benefit from actively seeking mentorship and expressing their interest in program management roles. A flexible, open-minded approach to new challenges and a willingness to collaborate across disciplines support long-term success in this ...

    33 min

  8. 10/21/2024

    How to Implement Behavioral Project Management for Better Performance – Ep 055

    In this episode, I talk with Dr. Josh Ramirez, Ph.D., NPPQ, PMP, CEO, and Dr. Jodi Bull Wilson, CSM, Ph.D., COO of the Institute for Neuro & Behavioral Project Management, about how understanding human behavior can transform project execution, enhance team performance, and sharpen decision-making for smoother, more successful outcomes. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Dr. Josh and Dr. Jodi: What is behavioral project management, and how does it differ from traditional project management approaches in terms of improving decision-making and outcomes? How does understanding cognitive conditions and designing project management processes around how the brain works lead to better project outcomes compared to traditional methods? How do cognitive moderators or filters, like cognitive overload, impact decision-making in projects, and what can be done to manage these effects? How can project managers apply behavioral design principles to navigate the effects of time pressure, improve team performance, and ensure better project delivery? What role do pressure, process, and people play in the success or failure of a project, and how can managers effectively navigate these factors using behavioral project management strategies? How does the NeuralPlan tool help project managers improve prediction accuracy and resource coordination throughout a project by applying behavioral insights? Can you share some real-world examples where behavioral project management, using tools like NeuralPlan, has led to significant improvements in project outcomes? How can AEC professionals incorporate behavioral principles into their daily project management practices for better long-term outcomes? What final piece of advice would you give to AEC professionals about integrating behavioral insights into project management for sustained success? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Implement Behavioral Project Management for Better Performance: Behavioral project management goes beyond standard frameworks by focusing on how behaviors influence decision-making throughout a project's lifecycle. By designing processes around how the brain works, teams identify risks more effectively, define scope better, and achieve improved outcomes compared to traditional methods. Considering cognitive conditions and the individual’s role within the project context makes processes more effective. Tailoring management processes to how the team operates ensures more efficient decision-making and reduces errors, leading to better outcomes. Cognitive overload overwhelms individuals and slows decision-making. Recognizing when cognitive load becomes too high and taking short breaks helps reset focus, improving decision-making and overall project outcomes. Time and social pressures cause mental fatigue and reduce productivity. Managers boost performance by scheduling high-focus tasks during peak mental times and including short breaks, keeping teams energized and improving overall project delivery. Pressure, process, and people all impact a project's success. Using behavioral strategies, such as identifying obstacles early and managing time pressure with well-timed breaks, helps managers effectively navigate these elements and ensure successful outcomes. NeuralPlan enhances project management by improving prediction accuracy and resource coordination through behavioral insights. It enables teams to make reliable forecasts, ensuring smoother coordination from planning through execution, leading to better outcomes. NeuralPlan improves forecasting accuracy, reducing errors from 50% to as low as 10%.

    36 min
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About

The AEC Engineering Project Management Podcast (AECPM) provides engineering career advice and success stories for project managers in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Civil engineer and project manager Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM hosts the podcast, which highlights engineering project managers and professionals.

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