Engineering Influence from ACEC

Embracing Digital Transformation in Engineering: Insights from Chelsey Hendrickson of Kimley Horn

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast from ACEC, hosted by Thomas Grogan, Senior Director, Economics and Market Intelligence. In this episode, we are delighted to have Chelsey Hendrickson from Kimley Horn, who leads the New Ventures Incubator and Technology Solutions team.
Chelsey dives into the meaning of digital transformation and its impact on improving work experiences, client outcomes, and community services. She shares insights into her dynamic role, highlighting the importance of collaboration, market research, and continuous innovation to address evolving challenges.
Throughout the conversation, Chelsey discusses the importance of leveraging employee passions and expertise, the need for market-tested solutions, and the critical role of change management. She also offers valuable advice for smaller firms looking to embark on their digital transformation journey incrementally.
The episode concludes on an optimistic note, emphasizing the energizing effect of technology on employees and the potential for an even greater impact on the communities served by the engineering industry.
Join us to explore the transformative potential of technology in engineering and gain actionable insights from an industry leader.

Driving Digital Transformation in the AEC Industry with Jason Miller

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast from ACEC. In this episode, Thomas Grogan, Senior Director of Economics and Market Intelligence at ACEC, sits down with Jason Miller, Head of Innovation at Ramboll, to discuss the pivotal role of digital transformation in the AEC industry.
Jason shares insights on what digital transformation means for Ramboll, emphasizing the importance of foundational technologies, data reuse, and upskilling colleagues to prepare for the future of the AEC industry. He also talks about the creation of the Ramboll Tech organization aimed at accelerating change and innovation within the company.
The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation, including the importance of flexibility, the potential of data strategies, and the need to balance innovation with risk management. Jason also highlights the significance of maintaining a client-centric approach and the benefits of fostering a culture that embraces failure and learning.
As the discussion wraps up, Jason offers valuable advice for smaller firms looking to embark on their own digital transformation journey and shares his optimistic view on the future, driven by the energy and potential of new digital tools to solve sustainability challenges in the AEC industry.
Join us for this engaging episode to learn more about how digital transformation is shaping the future of engineering and consulting.

The Intersection of Digital Transformation and the AEC Industry: Insights from Stantec's CTO

The Intersection of Digital Transformation and the AEC Industry: Insights from Stantec's CTOWelcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast from ACEC. In this episode, Thomas Grogan, Senior Director of Economics and Market Intelligence at ACEC, engages in an insightful discussion with Shankar Kalyana, Chief Technology Officer at Stantec.Shankar shares his expertise on the nuanced differences between digitization and digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of reimagining processes rather than merely automating inefficient ones. He highlights the critical role of active C-suite sponsorship and robust change management in driving successful transformation initiatives.The conversation also delves into best practices and lessons learned from other sectors, the importance of aligning technology strategy with business objectives, and the collaborative effort required to upskill and modernize the workforce. Shankar offers valuable advice for smaller firms on navigating digital transformation and identifies key technologies poised to impact the industry.Join us for a comprehensive exploration of how digital transformation can unlock new value and drive innovation within the AEC industry.

Navigating Digital Transformation with HDR's CTO

Welcome to the Engineering Influence podcast from ACEC, hosted by Thomas Grogan, Senior Director of Economics and Market Intelligence at ACEC. In this episode, we are thrilled to have Justin Webster, Chief Technology Officer at HDR, share his insights on digital transformation.
Justin dives into what digital transformation means to him and how he applies modern technologies to elevate HDR's operations. He discusses the importance of aligning technology with business strategies, overcoming challenges, and making data-driven decisions. Justin also shares valuable lessons from his experience in various industries and provides advice for smaller firms on developing a technology strategy.
Listen in to learn about the risks and opportunities in digital transformation and how to effectively leverage technology to stay ahead in the industry.

Demystifying BIM: Enhancing Building Documentation and Sustainability

Welcome to the latest episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC). Host Allison Schneider is joined by Joe Romano, Principal and Vice President at Langan, and John Russo, Founder and Board Member Emeritus of the U.S. Institute of Building Documentation (USIBD).
This episode delves into the upcoming ACEC education session titled "BIM Demystified." Joe and John share insights about the Coalition of Professional Surveyors (COPS) and the critical role of building documentation in design, construction, and maintenance. Learn about key initiatives like the level of accuracy specification and the importance of accurate building data in promoting sustainability.
Discover the significance of having standards in building documentation, the challenges of working with existing conditions, and the concept of digital twins. The session will cover methods of data collection, representation, and how BIM can streamline building lifecycle management.
Don't miss this enlightening discussion aimed at owners, architects, engineers, surveyors, and anyone interested in BIM and building documentation. Tune in to understand how these practices can lead to more efficient and sustainable building management.

Embracing AI and Digital Transformation: A Conversation with Raj Arora

In this episode of Engineering Influence, we sit down with Raj Arora, the new chair of the ACEC Technology Committee and CEO of Jensen Hughes, the world's largest fire protection engineering company. Raj shares insights on AI, digital transformation, and the critical issues facing the engineering industry today.
Raj emphasizes the importance of adopting digital tools to enhance firm operations, project delivery, and client solutions. He also discusses the three horizons of technology and how AI underpins each of them, urging industry professionals to embrace change and explore opportunities.
For those interested in further engagement, Raj recommends visiting tech.ac.org for resources and community interaction. Tune in to learn more about the future of technology in engineering and how to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Learn more at www.acec.org/committees/technology-committee
 

Considerations on Selecting an Industrial Dust Collector with Camfil

In this episode, we delve into the essential considerations for specifying industrial dust collectors in engineering projects. Our guest, Randi Huckaby, a seasoned expert with Camfil, shares her extensive knowledge on the topic. With over 14 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, Randi provides valuable insights into the importance of understanding dust characteristics, safety regulations, and long-term costs when designing air filtration systems for industrial facilities.
We explore the history and scope of Camfil, a global leader in air filtration systems, and discuss the collaborative efforts required between engineers and dust collector manufacturers to ensure both internal and external safety standards are met. Randi highlights the critical factors engineers must consider, including dust type, particulate size, and regulatory compliance.
Additionally, we discuss the impact of stringent regulations from states like California on national and international standards, emphasizing the need for efficiency and safety in industrial settings. Randi also sheds light on the importance of site surveys and the role they play in optimizing dust collection systems for long-term efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of industrial dust collection and its significance in maintaining safe and productive engineering environments.

Unleashing the Power of Pricing: An Interview with SCOPE Better

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast, hosted by Allison Schneider from ACEC. In this episode, we sit down with Tracy Shirtcliff, CEO and founder of SCOPEbetter, an ACEC affiliate member. Tracy shares insights into how SCOPEbetter's platform is revolutionizing pricing strategies for engineering firms.
Discover how SCOPEbetter integrates with existing systems to provide a centralized solution for pricing, helping businesses transition from manual spreadsheets to streamlined processes. Learn about the common challenges in pricing engineering contracts and how SCOPEbetter addresses these issues to drive profitability.
Tracy also discusses the importance of standardization, the impact of being the first proposal received, and the value of ACEC affiliate membership in staying connected with industry trends and solutions. Don't miss this insightful conversation on making pricing your firm's superpower!