Engineering Influence from ACEC

Election Insights and Engineering Influence: A Bipartisan Dialogue

Welcome to the latest episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies, recorded live at the 2024 Fall Conference in New Orleans. As the general election approaches, just 15 days away, the political landscape remains unpredictable. In this episode, we are joined by two former members of Congress, Representative Cheri Bustos of Illinois and John Katko of New York, who share their expert insights on the potential outcomes of the election and its implications for the engineering industry.
Our guests discuss the dynamics in the Senate and House, speculating on which party might take control and how divided leadership could influence legislative processes. They explore the impact of recent legislation such as the CHIPS Act and Infrastructure Bill, emphasizing the importance of bipartisan cooperation in advancing America's infrastructure goals.
Tune in for a compelling conversation that highlights the challenges and opportunities facing the engineering sector amidst a rapidly changing political environment. As we brace for the election results, this episode offers valuable perspectives on what the future might hold for infrastructure and policy in the United States.

The Future of Data Centers: Navigating Mega Trends and Innovations

In this episode of the Engineering Influence Podcast, hosted by Diana O'Lare, Director of Market Intelligence for ACEC, we dive deep into the future of data centers and telecommunications with Nabeel Mahmood, CEO of Mahmood and co-creator of the Nomad Futurist Podcast. Mahmood shares his insights on the explosive growth of the data center market, driven by advancements in AI, big data, and connectivity, and discusses the mega trends shaping this rapidly evolving industry.
Explore the challenges and innovations in data center development, including the impact of AI, regulatory hurdles, and the importance of efficiency and sustainability. Mahmoud highlights the significance of modular designs and renewable energy sources in reducing the carbon footprint of data centers.
Join us as we also touch on the geographical hotspots for data center expansion, both in the U.S. and internationally, and discuss the critical role of digital transformation and change management in adapting to new technologies. Don’t miss the live market briefing on November 13th, focusing on the growing data center and telecommunications market.
On November 13th 2024, ACEC will present a panel of experts in collaboration with the ACEC’s new Technology Committee on the data center and telecommunications markets. The data center market continues to grow, and incentives are provided to those who can locate land to build new centers and hyperscale data centers on. Also hear how the latest trend “AI” is impacting the market. Register Now: https://www.acec.org/event/market-briefings-intel-for-engineers-four-part-series/
 
The Nomad Futurist Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established to demystify the world of digital infrastructure, empower younger generations through exposure to the underlying technologies that power our digital world, and cultivate the next generation of industry leaders. Through the contributions of our supporters, we launch global programs in partnership with a range of education providers, NGOs and other nonprofit organizations committed to educating children in underserved communities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and creating opportunities for growth and new career paths. To learn more about the Nomad Futurist Foundation, please visit: http://nomadfuturist.org. 

Achieving Technical Excellence in Engineering and Architecture

Welcome to this episode of Engineering Influence, a podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this insightful discussion, we delve into the essence of technical excellence in the engineering and architecture sectors. Our host, Jeff, is joined by three experts from HDR: Pratibha Basrao, Applied Technology Director; Brad Johnson, Professional Services Director; and Doug Wignall, Architecture President.Pratibha Basrao shares her perspective on integrating advanced technologies to enhance design practices and outcomes. Brad Johnson expands the conversation to encompass professional excellence, emphasizing the importance of expertise and client service. Doug Wignall discusses the confluence of technical and design excellence in architecture, highlighting the importance of consistent and intelligent design processes.The episode also covers how HDR implements policies and procedures to maintain high standards, the role of technology in advancing these standards, and the company's commitment to continuous professional development. Tune in to learn how HDR fosters a culture of technical and professional excellence and how it positions itself as a trusted advisor to clients seeking innovative and complex design solutions.

Navigating Cybersecurity and AI in AEC: Insights from WPM Technology

Welcome to Engineering Influence, a podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we're joined by Jim Jacoby, CIO for Walter P. Moore and Director for Walter P. Moore Technology (WPM Technology), to discuss the suite of services WPM Technology offers to the AEC industry, focusing on cybersecurity, IT services, and more.
Jim shares the origins of WPM Technology, which was founded in 2017 to leverage 25 years of IT experience at Walter P. Moore. We explore the critical importance of cybersecurity in the AEC industry, the challenges of digital transformation, and the impact of AI since the release of ChatGPT. Jim highlights the need for robust enterprise IT infrastructure to fully benefit from emergent technologies.
We also dive into WPM Technology's five service verticals: managed IT services, consulting, cyber practice, software development, and AI integration. Jim discusses the importance of having a trusted partner for technology services and the value of adhering to nondisclosure agreements to maintain client trust.
The conversation shifts to the transformative potential of AI in the AEC industry, the importance of a balanced approach to AI adoption, and the evolving skill sets required in modern engineering firms. Jim emphasizes the need for firms to embrace technology to stay competitive and how WPM Technology can support this transition.
For more information, visit WPM Technology and learn how they can help your firm navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and AI in the AEC industry.

Empowering the Future: Digital Transformation in Engineering

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 joined by Justin Webster, Chief Technology Officer at HDR, to explore the concept of digital transformation and its impact on engineering firms.Justin shares his insights on how digital transformation means applying technology in innovative ways to enhance efficiency, modernize processes, and deliver better value to clients. He discusses his role at HDR, emphasizing the importance of aligning technology strategies with business goals and enabling employees to leverage new skills and tools.The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of implementing emerging technologies like virtual reality, blockchain, and AI, while maintaining a balance between efficiency and innovation. Justin also provides practical advice for firms of all sizes on developing a technology strategy that supports their business aspirations.Tune in to learn about the top risks and opportunities in digital transformation and how engineering firms can position themselves as industry leaders by embracing technology.

Navigating Construction Claims: Understanding EJCDC Contracts

Welcome to the Engineering Influence Podcast from the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we delve into the critical topic of the Engineering Joint Contract Documents Committee (EJCDC) and its significance for member firms. Joining us is Kevin O'Beirne from HDR, who shares his expertise on EJCDC contracts and their application in engineering projects.
Kevin provides an in-depth overview of EJCDC documents, focusing on their role in managing construction claims arising from differing site conditions and delays. He explains the categories of construction claims, such as subsurface conditions, underground facilities, and hazardous materials, and how EJCDC documents address these issues.
The discussion highlights the importance of due diligence, risk allocation, and the need for a collaborative approach between engineers, owners, and contractors to ensure successful project outcomes. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the complexities of construction contracts and the practical application of EJCDC documents in the field.

Building Tomorrow: ACEC Minnesota's Vision for Engineering Education

Welcome to Engineering Influence, a podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we delve into the creation and mission of the Engineering Education Foundation of America (EEFA), founded by ACEC Minnesota. John Curry, Executive Director of ACEC Minnesota, and Dan Larson, past treasurer of ACEC and CEO of AET, discuss the foundation's goals and its impact on workforce development and education.
John shares the driving forces behind EEFA, emphasizing the need to address workforce shortages and partner with educational organizations. The foundation focuses on four main initiatives: STEM education, post-secondary programs, industry retention and mentorship, and data-driven decision-making.
Dan Larsen explains his motivation for supporting EEFA, highlighting its role in fostering a future engineering workforce. He discusses the long-term vision and the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to make engineering an exciting career choice for young people.
Tune in to learn more about EEFA's achievements, including the successful launch of a 501c3 organization, scholarship programs, and volunteer-driven initiatives. Discover how ACEC Minnesota's efforts aim to inspire the next generation of engineers and strengthen the consulting engineering industry.

Unlocking Digital Transformation in Engineering: Insights from Arup’s Chief Data Officer

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Engineering Influence podcast from ACEC. Join our host, Thomas Grogan, Senior Director of Economics and Market Intelligence, as he sits down with Tembi Hommes, Global Chief Data Officer from Arup, to dive deep into the realm of digital transformation.
In this episode, Tembi shares her unique perspective on what digital transformation means beyond just technology. She emphasizes the importance of optimizing processes, ensuring data integrity, and setting up robust security measures. Learn how the AEC engineering industry can benefit from adopting standardized data language and achieving interoperability across systems.
Discover practical advice for smaller firms looking to embark on their digital transformation journey, and understand the critical role of training and change management in successful implementation. Tembi also discusses the potential of emerging technologies like GenAI and their transformative impact on engineering and design.
Whether you're a large firm or a small business, this episode offers invaluable insights into leveraging data and technology to drive innovation and achieve strategic business outcomes. Don’t miss out on this informative discussion!