Engineering Influence from ACEC

Forging the Future: UConn and Connecticut DOT's Workforce Initiative

Welcome to a new episode of Engineering Influence, a podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we explore the dynamic partnership between UConn School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Connecticut Department of Transportation, aiming to tackle workforce development challenges.
Join us as we discuss with Eric Jackson, research professor and executive director of the Connecticut Transportation Institute, and Carlo Leone, Director of Workforce Development at the Connecticut DOT. Discover how collaborative efforts are reshaping engineering education to meet the real-world demands of infrastructure development.
From curriculum adjustments to technology integration, learn about the strategies being implemented to prepare the next generation of engineers, and the long-term impacts these changes promise for Connecticut and beyond.

Revolutionizing Engineering: The Future with Autodesk

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast, brought to you by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we have an insightful discussion with Theo Agelopolous, VP of AEC Design Strategy at Autodesk, about the latest developments in Autodesk and its strategy for expansion in the AEC industry. With over three decades of experience in the field, Theo shares valuable insights into how Autodesk is helping the industry transition to digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of interoperability and integration in project delivery.
The conversation delves into how Autodesk is leveraging AI and machine learning to enhance efficiencies, focusing on the evolving demands and challenges faced by its customer base. Theo explores the future of engineering firms, addressing how new technologies may reshape business models and staffing, with the potential for engineering as a service during the entire project lifecycle. Tune in to learn about Autodesk's commitment to supporting engineering firms of all sizes in adapting to this rapidly changing marketplace and their vision for the future of the industry.

Reducing Embodied Carbon: Engineering Insights from Nate Maniktala

Join us in a thought-provoking episode of Engineering Influence from the American Council of Engineering Companies, as we sat down with Nate Maniktala, Principal at BranchPattern. This conversation delves into the pressing topic of embodied carbon in industrial and commercial real estate, exploring how the engineering community is addressing sustainability challenges in the built environment.
Discover the role BranchPattern plays in the AEC industry with a focus on sustainability and building science. Nate explains the importance of reducing embodied carbon emissions during a building's lifecycle, from the material extraction phase to construction and beyond. Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities that industrial real estate presents in the quest for lower carbon footprints.
Nate also discusses the innovative materials and methods, such as mass timber and low-carbon concrete, driving change across the industry. Learn about the regulatory landscape and how policy, education, and advocacy are crucial to advancing sustainability in real estate development. Tune in to understand how companies are aligning with environmental goals while navigating the complexities of business decisions in today's dynamic regulatory environment.
Read their new report here: https://www.branchpattern.com/white-papers/industrial-embodied-carbon-benchmark

Connecting Communities: The Cross Charlotte Trail Story

Welcome to the Engineering and Public Works Roadshow from Winston-Salem, celebrating North Carolina's Great Trail State. This episode focuses on the often overlooked yet vital recreational infrastructure that brings communities together, highlighting the Cross Charlotte Trail project managed by Kimley Horn. Tori Golaszewski shares insights into the project's challenges and its role in connecting neighborhoods and creating accessible green spaces. The discussion also covers the broader implications of small-scale infrastructure on community connectivity and the personal journey of becoming an engineer in the field of public infrastructure development. Join us as we explore the meaningful impact of trails and greenways in enriching urban life and encouraging future engineers.

Inspiring the Next Generation: Engineering Week 2025

Welcome to another engaging episode of Engineering Influence, presented by the American Council of Engineering Companies. Join us as we welcome Kathy Renzetti, Executive Director of DiscoverE, to discuss the evolution and significance of Engineering Week 2025. From its origins in the 1950s to its current global influence, Engineers Week has become a catalyst for inspiring young minds to pursue careers in engineering.
Kathy delves into the importance of hands-on engagement and the crucial role volunteer mentors play in classrooms, transforming the way students perceive engineering. Discover how local initiatives and partnerships can create lasting impacts, and why volunteering as a role model can make a real difference.
We also explore exciting themes for this year's event— "Build Your Future"— which encourages students to imagine and create solutions for tomorrow's world. Dive into the discussion on how engineering can address current global challenges such as climate change, and learn about the role of civil engineering in shaping a sustainable future.
Don't miss the opportunity to hear about DiscoverE's Future City Competition, which inspires young innovators to envision cities 100 years into the future. Celebrate their achievements and learn how to stay engaged in nurturing the next generation of engineers beyond Engineers Week.

Leading the Future of Engineering with Kurt Yoshii

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies! In this episode, join us as we introduce the new Executive Committee volunteer leaders, including Vice Chair Kurt Yoshii from California. Kurt shares his journey through various leadership roles within ACEC and discusses the importance of both local and national experiences in shaping the future of engineering.
Discover the significance of coalition membership, particularly for geo professionals, and how these groups foster collaboration and problem-solving across the industry. Kurt also reflects on the increasing challenges posed by frequent wildfires in California and the engineering solutions that aim to make infrastructure more resilient.
Finally, get insights into Kurt’s goals as he steps into his new role on the Executive Committee and his aspirations for driving ACEC’s strategic direction forward.

Paving the Path: Future ACEC Chair Dan Larson Discusses Leadership Transition at ACEC

In this enlightening episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast, we are joined by Dan Larson, the incoming chair-elect-elect of the American Council of Engineering Companies. Larson shares insights into his journey from regional leadership to the national stage, highlighting the experiences that have prepared him for this pivotal role.
As he prepares to take the helm, Larson outlines his vision for ACEC's growth, with a focus on advocacy, membership expansion, and workforce development. He emphasizes the importance of aligning national and local strategies to enhance the value proposition for member firms and to attract new talent to the engineering profession.
Discover Larson's strategic plans to strengthen the organization's communication, broaden its membership base, and address key industry challenges. Tune in to learn how he plans to foster an environment that attracts and retains top-tier engineering professionals, ensuring a bright future for ACEC.

Welcoming New Leaders: A Conversation with Incoming Vice Chair, Orhan Ulger

Join us in this engaging episode of the American Council of Engineering Companies podcast, where we introduce our new class of vice chairs and members of the executive committee. Orhan Ulger, a seasoned professional in the engineering community, shares his journey within ACEC, detailing his extensive involvement and contributions to the organization's growth and success.
Explore the significant advancements in workforce development, including the establishment of a workforce consortium and its impact on addressing the shortage of engineers. Orhan discusses the importance of coalitions in solving industry challenges and the benefits of initiatives like the roadshow that aim to rekindle public interest in engineering.
Additionally, Orhan delves into the value of diversity within the industry and its correlation to productivity and innovation. Learn about the strategic goals for the upcoming term and how diversified teams contribute to improved outcomes. Tune in to discover the personal insights and aspirations of ACEC's leadership as they steer the organization towards future success.