The Structural Engineering Channel

In this episode, we talk with Domingo (Dom) Diaz, registered architect, AIA, and president of Diaz Architect & Associates, P.C., about facade restoration best practices and how building owners can stay ahead by prioritizing safety, avoiding costly violations, and making proactive maintenance a smart long-term strategy. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Dom: Why are facade and parapet inspections so important, and what makes them critical for building safety and maintenance? What structural issues commonly affect parapets and facades, and how do weather and design elements like flashing and relieving angles contribute? How do parapet conditions impact compliance with NYC’s Local Law 11 facade compliance guide (FISP), and what should structural engineers be aware of when working on these projects? What should building owners know about the upcoming Sub-Cycle 10A deadline in 2025, and how can they prepare using proactive maintenance for commercial buildings? What’s the best way for owners to proactively plan for facade maintenance and reduce the risk of expensive emergency repairs? How does your restoration approach differ when working on historic buildings versus modern ones, and what are the unique historic building facade maintenance challenges? What’s the best way for engineers and architects to collaborate effectively during facade and parapet restoration projects, especially when aesthetics and code compliance are both important? What changes or trends are you seeing in NYC’s building codes and facade inspection requirements that engineers and architects should be aware of? What questions do property owners usually ask at the start of facade restoration projects? What final piece of advice would you give to engineers, architects, or building owners about facade restoration best practices and inspections? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Helpful Facade Restoration Best Practices for Safer Buildings: Facade restoration best practices involve conducting regular facade and parapet inspections to identify deterioration before it becomes dangerous. Signs of facade and parapet failure should be addressed early to maintain safety. Parapets and facades often suffer from cracking, displacement, and corrosion, especially in colder climates where freeze-thaw cycles occur. Poor flashing details, improperly installed relieving angles, and aging connections further contribute to failures that compromise the building envelope. Compliance with Local Law 11 depends on recognizing hidden vulnerabilities in parapet design. Engineers must account for older construction methods, lack of redundancy, and the layered nature of parapets to meet code requirements and ensure public safety. Owners should begin planning now by evaluating the condition of their facades through both destructive and non-destructive testing. Allowing flexibility in repair plans helps address unforeseen issues and meet compliance requirements without costly delays. Preventative maintenance for commercial buildings is critical. Proactive maintenance, such as sealing joints and inspecting parapets regularly, prevents small issues from escalating. This avoids expensive emergency repairs and extends the life of building components. When it comes to historic building facade maintenance, a more careful approach is needed that prioritizes preservation while meeting modern code standards. Decisions often involve balancing repair versus replacement and selecting materials that maintain the appearance while improving performance. Collaboration improves when teams anticipate hidden conditions and agree on flexible repair scopes...

In this episode, we talk with Jeff Brandeis, founder & CEO of Engaging Webinars, about the biggest Zoom mistakes for engineers that cost professionals clients, and the simple strategies to fix them, captivate audiences, and convert prospects into paying clients. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Jeff: What are the biggest Zoom mistakes for engineers when explaining complex technical concepts, and how can they make them easier to understand? What key elements make a webinar effective and help guide the audience toward practical takeaways? Can you tell us more about your Engaging Webinars program and how it helps engineers fix their Zoom mistakes? How can engineers use storytelling to avoid Zoom mistakes, make technical presentations more interesting, and connect better with non-technical audiences? What are some of the best ways engineers can use webinars to show their expertise, avoid Zoom mistakes, attract new clients, and make a lasting impact? How does understanding audience psychology help engineers avoid Zoom mistakes and improve webinar engagement and presentation effectiveness? What final piece of advice would you give engineers who want to improve their online presence, presentation skills, and client communication while avoiding Zoom mistakes for engineers? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How to Fix Zoom Mistakes for Engineers and Improve Presentations: Engineers often struggle to keep virtual audiences engaged when presenting technical content. By using clear visuals, simplifying language, and encouraging interaction, they help others stay focused and absorb complex information more easily while avoiding Zoom mistakes for engineers. A strong webinar feels like a two-way conversation, not a lecture. When presenters use structure, visuals, and audience interaction, they create a memorable experience that leads to real learning and action. The engaging webinar approach transforms presentations into dynamic, classroom-style sessions. With tools like live drawing and seamless transitions, it helps engineers connect emotionally and visually with their audience, reducing Zoom mistakes for engineers. Storytelling helps engineers relate technical concepts to real-life challenges their audience understands. When the focus shifts to the audience’s needs and experiences, engagement rises, and the message sticks, minimizing Zoom mistakes for engineers. Engineers build credibility by keeping webinars focused and responsive. Respecting time, managing questions with techniques like “parking,” and offering thoughtful follow-up all contribute to a professional, high-impact experience. Engineers who understand what their audience cares about present with greater clarity and purpose. By making the content relevant and meaningful, they keep attention high and inspire action, preventing Zoom mistakes for engineers. Confidence grows with action, and a simple “5-4-3-2-1” countdown helps overcome hesitation. Engineers who take that first step build lasting communication skills that strengthen both career and personal impact. More Details in This Episode… About Jeff Brandeis Jeff Brandeis is the CEO of Engaging Webinars, where he helps professionals transform their online presentations into compelling, interactive experiences that drive audience engagement and boost sales. With a background in financial strategy and sales leadership, Jeff has spent his career refining presentation techniques that captivate audiences and inspire action. Drawing from his experience as a VP of Sales and VP of Solution Design, Jeff recognized the need for more dynamic and results-driven ...

In this episode, we talk with Natalie Tse, SE, LEED AP, client relations and business development specialist at Tipping, about today’s top workforce challenges in structural engineering and how firms can take meaningful action through DEI strategies to attract and retain top talent. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Natalie: How can structural engineers show their value to clients, especially as sustainability and resilience become more important in the industry? How should firms prepare to offer sustainability and resilience services going forward? What are the biggest workforce challenges engineers face today, and what can firms do to improve things like pay, equity, and career growth? How can new engineers make a difference at work, even if they don’t have leadership responsibilities yet? What does it mean to be a visionary and resilient leader in structural engineering today? What soft skills are most significant for engineers to develop as they grow into leadership roles? What final piece of advice would you give to structural engineers who want to lead with purpose and resilience in their careers? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Top Structural Engineering Workforce Challenges and How to Solve Them: Structural engineers show their value by moving beyond calculations and recognizing patterns throughout a project’s lifecycle. By listening closely and understanding client goals, they align their solutions with long-term impact, especially in areas like sustainability and resilience. Firms prepare to offer sustainability and resilience services by encouraging engineers to stay informed, make smart material choices, and build strong industry relationships. These actions help shape client expectations and demonstrate leadership in sustainable design practices. Engineers face workforce challenges such as burnout, lack of advancement, and inequity. Firms improve outcomes by supporting autonomy, promoting continuous learning, and creating a culture where purpose and progress are part of everyday work. New engineers make a difference by contributing to an environment where everyone feels safe to share ideas. Their voice matters, and by speaking up and engaging with their team, they build trust and help improve collaboration. A visionary and resilient leader anticipates change, values inclusion, and supports others through thoughtful communication and meaningful work. They recognize the impact of team well-being and create space for innovation to thrive. Trust and emotional intelligence are essential soft skills for engineers in leadership. They strengthen team dynamics by listening well, showing empathy, and creating clear and respectful communication channels. Engineers build strong careers by developing both technical knowledge and meaningful relationships. Those who stay curious, seek guidance, and understand their ability to influence others grow into confident and impactful leaders. More Details in This Episode… About Natalie Tse, SE, LEED AP Natalie Y.L. Tse is a California licensed structural engineer specializing in seismic evaluation and seismic strengthening of existing buildings. She joined Tipping in 2017 with a broad range of design experience in the educational, commercial/retail, residential, science, and technology sectors. Her portfolio includes the design, assessment, and seismic retrofit of 30+ school campuses, a mission-critical laboratory and office building, and a new mass timber-framed cathedral over a concrete post-tensioned podium. Natalie firmly believes that one of the most essential components of a successful project is effectiv...

In this episode, we talk with Alexander Daddow, PE, CDT, senior strengthening solutions engineer at Simpson Strong-Tie, about how composite strengthening systems are revolutionizing structural engineering by enhancing durability, sustainability, and the way we reinforce structures for the future. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Alexander: How did realizing you didn’t want to be at a desk all day shape your career path? Can you explain composite strengthening systems and their role in engineering? What are the biggest misconceptions engineers have about composite strengthening solutions? What types of structures and projects typically use composite strengthening systems? What has been your most challenging or rewarding project, and what did you learn from it? What do you see as the future of composite strengthening and retrofitting in engineering? What advice would you give to young engineers looking to explore career paths beyond traditional roles? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Composite Strengthening Systems Unlocking A New Era Of Structural Engineering: Recognizing that a traditional desk job doesn’t align with personal strengths and preferences leads to exploring roles that allow for more interaction and fieldwork. Finding a position that balances technical expertise with engagement in real-world applications creates a more fulfilling career. Composite strengthening systems, such as FRP and FRCM, enhance structural integrity by bonding high-strength materials to existing concrete, masonry, or steel. These systems provide lightweight, effective reinforcement when properly installed with surface preparation and anchoring, making them valuable for retrofitting and repair. Many assume composite strengthening systems function as simple adhesive fixes, but their effectiveness depends on proper installation, testing, and engineering expertise. While these solutions enhance structural performance, they are not a universal remedy and require careful evaluation for each application. Composite strengthening systems apply to various structures, including historical buildings, infrastructure repairs, and seismic retrofits. Their ability to increase strength without significant weight or architectural modification makes them ideal for preserving existing structures while improving performance. Managing structural projects with multiple stakeholders requires extensive collaboration, clear communication, and strategic planning. Effective coordination among engineers, contractors, and regulatory agencies ensures high-quality results and minimizes potential obstacles. Advancements in composite strengthening continue to improve retrofitting techniques, with frameworks like ASC 41 providing essential guidelines for evaluating and reinforcing existing buildings. Industry collaboration, study sessions, and expert guidance help engineers apply these evolving solutions effectively. Paying attention to personal interests, embracing challenges, and remaining open to new opportunities leads to a more rewarding career. Engineers who actively seek roles that align with their strengths and values find greater success and long-term satisfaction. More Details in This Episode… About Alexander Daddow, PE, CDT Alex Daddow is a registered professional engineer in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, Alaska, Washington, Oregon and Wyoming. He graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a degree in architectural engineering. Before joining Simpson Strong-Tie in 2019, Alex was a consulting engineer working on podium structures, custom housing, bridges, historic retrofits, schools,

In this episode, we talk with Andy Richardson, PE, SE, principal engineer of 29E6 and host of ENHANCE AEC, about structural engineering career development, overcoming burnout, achieving excellence in structural engineering, and using the 6E framework to guide engineers toward a sustainable and fulfilling career. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Andy: Considering the high-stress nature of structural engineering, how have you managed burnout throughout your career? How do you maintain high standards in our industry while balancing various challenges? Can you explain how your six E framework influences your approach to structural engineering and improves engineers' work? Your firm handles a wide range of projects; what are the benefits and challenges of not specializing in one specific area? Given the diverse challenges in projects like coastal and seismic work, what considerations should structural engineers keep in mind? Can you provide an example of a project where you had to balance efficiency, safety, and code compliance? What habits or resources have you found beneficial in keeping your knowledge up to date, given the vital importance of continuous learning in engineering? Could you share some insights from your experiences hosting Enhance AEC-E and the lessons learned from speaking with various AEC professionals? What final piece of advice would you give to someone starting out or transitioning into the structural engineering profession? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Structural Engineering Career Development Tips That Will Make You Thrive: Aligning one's career with personal interests and strengths is crucial in managing burnout effectively in structural engineering. Personal growth and gradual changes enhance career satisfaction and trajectory. Maintaining high standards in structural engineering is achieved through robust quality assurance processes that ensure consistency and quality, crucial for successful project management. The six E's framework focuses on deeper values and purposes, transforming routine tasks into meaningful contributions, and sustaining motivation and passion within the profession. Handling a diverse range of projects offers benefits such as economic resilience and enhanced professional development by exposing engineers to a variety of challenges, though it necessitates adaptability and versatile skills. Engineers must adhere to specific building codes and safety standards crucial for success in variable environments like coastal and seismic areas, leveraging ongoing education and modern tools to stay updated. In a notable project, engineers implemented stringent verification processes, using concrete weights to simulate real-world forces, ensuring the project met all safety and code compliance standards while maintaining efficiency. Continuous learning is vital through active involvement in professional associations, which provide networking and educational opportunities to keep engineers current and effective in their fields. Hosting Enhance AEC-E highlights the importance of sharing knowledge within large online communities, enriching the audience and fostering collective growth and learning opportunities across the industry. Newcomers to structural engineering should actively communicate with mentors and leaders, ask questions, and engage in continuous learning to become proficient in their craft and adapt to the evolving demands of the field. More Details in This Episode… About Andy Richardson, PE, SE Andy Richardson is a seasoned structural engineer with over 26 years of experience in the industry,

In this episode, we talk with Reyhaneh Navabzadeh, Ph.D., A.M. ASCE, engineer at Structural Integrity Associates, about how the earthquake engineering evolution transcends traditional practices to tackle critical challenges with innovative strategies for safer, more resilient structures. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Reyhaneh: How do earthquake engineering and traditional structural engineering differ in terms of design considerations and analytical approaches? How has earthquake engineering evolved globally, and what strategies can regions with different seismic risks implement to improve their resilience? What are the major challenges earthquake engineers face today, and how do these challenges impact the design and construction of structures designed to resist seismic activity? Can you discuss the recent advancements in materials, technologies, and research that are shaping structural and earthquake engineering practices? Do you need to sign up to receive earthquake alerts, or is it automatically available on devices like smartphones? How can regions with limited resources effectively implement earthquake-resistant systems? What are the essential skills or areas of knowledge that engineers should develop to excel in earthquake engineering? What final piece of advice would you give to engineers looking to specialize in earthquake engineering or incorporate seismic design principles into their work? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About The Ultimate Earthquake Engineering Evolution That Is Reshaping Structures: The earthquake engineering evolution goes beyond traditional structural engineering by incorporating specialized knowledge such as seismology and soil-structure interactions to ensure structures withstand seismic forces. This discipline integrates detailed seismic load considerations, requiring mastery of both general and specialized analytical approaches. Global earthquake engineering standards have significantly evolved, adopting advanced methods like performance-based design and utilizing smart materials. Regions enhance resilience by implementing tailored strategies based on micro-zonation studies that assess local seismic risks and by investing in education and infrastructure. Earthquake engineers face the challenge of adapting increasingly complex code books to design safe structures in rapidly urbanizing areas with high seismic risks. These challenges necessitate innovative solutions and adaptations in building designs to meet the stringent requirements of updated seismic codes. Recent advancements in earthquake engineering include the adoption of smart materials like shape memory alloys and systems such as base isolation. These innovations improve the resilience of structures by enhancing their structural integrity and adaptive capabilities, crucial for mitigating the impacts of earthquakes. Earthquake alert systems such as My Shake and Shake Alert provide essential early warnings and are becoming integral for residents in seismic regions. These apps may require a sign-up or automatic activation, depending on device settings and regional implementation strategies. Regions with limited resources can enhance earthquake resilience by prioritizing efficiency in design, using cost-effective and locally available materials, and adopting policies and training specific to seismic criteria. This approach helps maximize functionality while minimizing unnecessary expenses. Engineers should focus on understanding seismic risks through micro-zonation and adapting global standards to local conditions. Continuous education and the ability to implement advanced structural designs,

In this episode, we speak with David Fanella, Ph.D., S.E., P.E., F.ACI, F.ASCE, F.SEI, vice president of engineering at the Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute, about designing cost-effective steel-reinforced concrete buildings, the role of constructability in project success, especially in seismic construction, and how managing tolerances can streamline construction and reduce costs. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked David: How can we effectively implement economical and efficient designs for reinforced steel concrete structures during the design and planning phases? What advice or resources can you recommend for newer engineers to learn more about constructability issues, especially those who primarily work in offices? How do constructability mistakes in seismic construction impact structures in high seismic regions, potentially causing a domino effect on the economy? What are the most common inefficiencies in concrete design, and how can they be avoided? How do engineers, architects, and contractors collaborate to enhance cost efficiency in complex projects? With your extensive career in different disciplines, what have you enjoyed and learned, and what were the pros and cons of working at small versus large firms and teaching? What final piece of advice would you give to both students and working engineers on how to progress effectively in their careers? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Unparalleled Ways to Improve Seismic Construction With Tested Concrete Designs: Effective implementation of economical and efficient designs centers on constructability, encompassing economical formwork, appropriate fitting of reinforcing steel, and maintaining proper concrete flow to prevent defects such as segregation or honeycombing. Adherence to these principles throughout any project ensures success. Newer engineers benefit from engaging with detailed design guides, like the ACI 318 provisions, which illuminate various aspects of typical buildings and aid in understanding project integration. Participation in real-world projects and access to resources focused on practical design and construction aspects significantly enhance their comprehension and skill application. In high seismic regions, mistakes in seismic construction can intensify structural failures during earthquakes due to inadequate reinforcement and non-compliance with flexural, stiffness, and ductility requirements. Such errors in seismic construction result in substantial economic losses, elevated repair costs, and extended downtime for essential infrastructure. Common inefficiencies in concrete design, such as inadequate detailing and overlooking tolerances, can cause construction delays and increase costs. Engineers mitigate these issues by ensuring detailed plans that account for tolerances and possible site adjustments, alongside employing adaptable design solutions like adjustable dowels to effectively manage onsite uncertainties. Engineers, architects, and contractors improve cost efficiency through early collaboration, sharing expertise, and aligning project goals and materials from the beginning. This proactive approach facilitates the early resolution of potential issues, optimizes resource use, and ensures team alignment on project objectives and execution strategies. A career engaging in both new and existing building designs presents dynamic challenges and diverse learning opportunities. Working at smaller firms typically offers broader responsibilities and closer client interactions, whereas larger firms provide resources for more significant, high-profile projects. Teaching enhances practical engineering work by allowing for an in-depth exploration ...

In this episode, I talk with Sudarshan Kasera, P.E., PMP, senior project engineer at Crown Castle, about the fast-changing telecommunications industry, exploring how 5G reshapes structural requirements, the complexities of tower modifications, and the pivotal role engineers play in driving innovation. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Sudarshan: What types of telecommunication towers do you work with, and what structural challenges do they present? How have technological advancements influenced your design and analysis approach, especially with stricter structural requirements? What are the key industry codes and standards for designing telecommunication towers? What structural analysis tools do you use for telecommunication towers, and how have they evolved? Can you describe your process for designing or retrofitting a telecommunication tower, including an example project? What is it like to collaborate with different disciplines in the construction of a telecom tower? What final piece of advice would you give to structural engineers looking to enter or excel in the telecommunications industry? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Mind-Blowing Innovations in the Telecommunications World: Various telecommunication towers, including monopoles, cell supporting towers, guide towers, and concealed structures such as monopine and flagpole towers, present unique challenges. These challenges include ensuring stability under high wind loads and seismic conditions, managing the tension in guy wires, and dealing with the unique loading profiles of concealed towers. The shift to 4G and 5G technologies increases the size and weight of equipment on towers, raising structural demands and the complexity of design and analysis. This advancement leads to a focus on retrofitting existing structures and integrating innovative analysis techniques such as finite element modeling and nonlinear analysis. The key industry code, TIA222, set by the Telecommunications Industry Association, covers wind, seismic, and ice loading, as well as structural capacity and foundation design. Additionally, telecommunication towers must comply with the International Building Code and other relevant local and state codes. Tools like TNX Tower, known for user-friendly tower analysis and design, along with RISA 3D and StaadPro for modeling complex or heavily reinforced parts of towers, are utilized. These tools, along with Mathcad and Excel for calculations, have evolved to better handle the complexities of modern telecom tower designs. The design process involves a detailed analysis of existing structures to understand capacity and identify overstressed components. For example, a project near the ocean might require assessing corrosion and rust on a tower, then reinforcing or replacing affected parts to ensure stability and compliance with current codes, illustrating the iterative nature of this process. Collaboration in telecom tower projects typically involves coordination with electrical and mechanical engineers for loading data and with general contractors for construction aspects. This ensures all design aspects are integrated and feasible for construction, addressing any material or constructability issues as they arise. Engineers are encouraged to build a strong foundation in structural engineering fundamentals, familiarize themselves with specific industry codes like TIA222, embrace new technologies, and continuously adapt to new challenges. Innovation, problem-solving, and ongoing learning are crucial for navigating the unique challenges of the telecommunications sector. More Details in This Episode… About Sudarshan Kasera,

In this episode, we talk with Francesco D'Alessio, MBA, the chief commercial officer at Largo Inc., about the science behind vanadium, its unique properties, its essential role in structural engineering, and its transformative impact on advanced material technologies. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Asked Francesco: How does Vanadium enhance structural engineering, especially in steel reinforcement and similar applications? How do changes in market trends or rebar standards affect material choices in the industry? What strategies can an engineer use to manage risks associated with Vanadium supply shortages? How does Largo maintain high-quality standards in its Vanadium production? Is Largo a vertically integrated producer of Vanadium, and how does this benefit the industry? Is the mining of Vanadium keeping up with its growing demand? How does Vanadium support sustainability and net-zero goals in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry? What final piece of advice do you have for structural engineers leveraging advanced materials to innovate and improve the resilience and sustainability of their designs? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How Vanadium Drives Remarkable Advances in the World of Engineering: Vanadium enhances the strength, durability, and resilience of steel, making it ideal for structural engineering applications such as steel reinforcement. Its ability to improve performance with minimal additions makes it a critical component in modern, high-performance infrastructure. Evolving market trends and rebar standards, particularly in regions like China, drive a global shift toward higher-quality and environmentally friendly steels. This increased demand highlights the importance of vanadium in meeting new requirements and ensuring compliance with updated standards. Engineers manage risks by understanding the complexities of vanadium supply chains, including its production concentration in a few key countries. Clear communication with suppliers, thorough risk assessments, and staying informed about supply-demand dynamics are essential strategies to maintain material availability. Largo achieves high-quality standards through complete control of its value chain, from mining to final distribution. This ensures consistent quality, supply stability, and customized solutions for demanding applications such as aerospace and energy storage. Largo, as a vertically integrated producer of vanadium, controls the entire production process. This approach benefits the industry by ensuring reliable supply, consistent quality, and the ability to meet specific customer needs in high-grade applications. Mining struggles to match the growing demand for vanadium, as new operations require years to develop and launch. This increasing gap emphasizes the need for strategic investment and long-term planning to secure a stable supply. Vanadium supports sustainability by enabling the production of stronger steels, reducing the material needed for construction. Its use in vanadium flow batteries provides a fully recyclable, long-term energy storage solution, advancing net-zero goals and circular economy practices. Structural engineers benefit from collaborating with suppliers, researchers, and peers to gain insights into the applications and advantages of advanced materials like vanadium. Participating in research and maintaining clear communication enable innovative solutions that improve sustainability and resilience in projects. More Details in This Episode… About Francesco D'Alessio, MBA Mr. D'Alessio has over 17 years of experience in metals sa...

In this episode, we talk with Shane Brown, PE, SE, a senior engineer at Parametrix, about the essential skills and material choices needed to balance safety, aesthetics, and cost in bridge design. He shares key insights on building resilient structures that stand the test of time. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Shane : What do you think is the most underrated skill an engineer needs to succeed in bridge design? Can you describe a bridge project you worked on and the challenges you faced? How do you select the type of bridge to design, and what factors do you consider in the process? Can you share a memorable experience where teamwork was crucial to solving a major challenge? How does Parametrix’s employee-owned model impact project management and client service? Can you share an example of a tough decision you made to balance safety, cost, and aesthetics in bridge design? What advice would you give to structural engineers who want to specialize in bridge design and make a lasting impact in the field? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About the Essential Skills to Secure Better Bridge Designs: Understanding how bridges are built is a critical but often overlooked skill for structural engineers. Real-world experience, such as visiting construction sites, allows engineers to design practical solutions that can be efficiently constructed. In a recent project, the team designs a system-to-system interchange to connect two highways, allowing free-flowing traffic. The project involves braided ramps and flyover bridges, with challenges such as maintaining clearance, coordinating with the roadway team, staying within right-of-way limits, and protecting wetlands, all of which are addressed through collaborative efforts. Designing a bridge requires careful consideration of factors like geography, soil conditions, traffic demands, and environmental impacts. Coordinating with roadway design teams and ensuring clearances are met is essential to creating a safe, functional, and sustainable structure. Establishing a clear work plan as a team upfront ensures everyone understands their role, deadlines, and responsibilities. Collaborative planning keeps the project organized, engages the team, and leads to a successful outcome without sacrificing quality. Engineers who stay with Parametrix long-term often highlight a positive work culture and strong mentorship opportunities. This type of environment builds ownership, accountability, and a commitment to delivering exceptional client service. Safety is always the top priority in structural engineering, and it is never compromised, regardless of project constraints. While cost and aesthetics can influence decisions, safety remains the foundation of every design. Understanding how bridges are built and gaining hands-on experience is essential for structural engineers. Real-world learning and mentorship provide the foundation for designing practical, impactful, and efficient bridge solutions. More Details in This Episode… About Shane Brown, P.E., S.E. Shane Brown, PE, SE, is a senior structural engineer with 25 years of experience, specializing in the design and evaluation of bridges and retaining walls. His expertise spans the analysis and design of single- and multi-span bridges using materials such as cast-in-place concrete, precast/prestressed concrete, post-tensioned concrete, built-up steel, rolled steel, and timber. Since joining the Bridge & Structures group at Parametrix in 2007, Shane has made impactful contributions to high-profile projects, including pedestrian bridges, complex retaining walls,