What does it mean to be a civil engineer in the 21st century?

In this episode, we’re bridging generations — sitting down with young professional Matthew Jacobson for a real, thoughtful conversation about leadership, service, and engineering in a world that’s changing fast. Hosted by a past president of ASCE, this episode dives into the human side of infrastructure: why it matters, who it serves, and how today’s engineers can shape the future.

We talk about:

• Why Matthew chose civil engineering and what hooked him early on

• The value of ASCE involvement at the student and professional level

• Developing leadership skills outside of the classroom

• How company culture shapes growth for young engineers

• Rebuilding communities through inclusive design

• Redefining success with work-life balance and purpose

Whether you're an engineering student, a young professional, or a seasoned veteran looking to mentor the next generation, this episode is packed with insight, personal stories, and a refreshing take on what it means to build something that lasts.

What does it take to balance two seemingly opposite careers? In today’s episode of The 21st Century Engineer, we sit down with Alexis Moran—a civil & environmental engineer who also spent five years as an NFL cheerleader for the New Orleans Saints.

Alexis shares her remarkable journey—from discovering her passion for dance at age five, to pursuing a career in STEM, and excelling in both fields simultaneously. She talks about the challenges of work-life balance, her role in sustainability at Ingalls Shipbuilding, and how she transitioned from NFL cheerleading to starting her own choreography business.

🔹 Topics Covered:
✅ How Alexis balanced a full-time engineering career with professional cheerleading
✅ Sustainability & environmental engineering in the shipbuilding industry
✅ The power of mentorship & finding passion in multiple careers
✅ Life after the NFL & launching a dance/choreography business
✅ Advice for young professionals pursuing STEM and creative passions

👂 Tune in for an inspiring conversation that proves you don’t have to choose between passion and profession—you can have both!

💬 Join the conversation! Let us know your thoughts by leaving a review.

🔔 Subscribe to The 21st Century Engineer for more inspiring career stories!

#Engineering #STEM #WomenInSTEM #NFLCheerleader #Sustainability #CareerBalance #Dance #Mentorship #CareerSuccess #Podcast

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms!

Welcome to The 21st Century Engineering Podcast, where we dive into the future of engineering, technology, and infrastructure. Hosted by Dennis D. Truax, Ph.D., P.E., a distinguished leader in the civil engineering community, this podcast explores the rapidly evolving engineering landscape.

Each episode features insightful conversations with experts and industry professionals like Jonathan Hassen, who share their experiences, challenges, and innovative approaches in engineering and consulting.

From tackling workforce development and adopting new technologies like AI and digital twins to exploring the growing impact of data and automation in the water and wastewater industries, we cover a broad range of topics essential for engineers shaping the future.

Whether you're a seasoned professional, a student entering the field, or someone curious about the changes in engineering, The 21st Century Engineering Podcast will equip you with the knowledge and perspective you need to thrive in this fast-changing profession.

In this episode of The 21st Century Engineering Podcast, Dr. Dennis D. Truax speaks with Jacob Forester, a former student and long-time friend, about his diverse career journey in civil engineering. Jacob reflects on his transition from consulting to government work and ultimately to starting his own construction firm. He discusses the importance of service in engineering and the impact it has on his career, stressing how embracing servant leadership, empathy, and building a strong company culture are key to success in the industry.

Jacob shares his experiences in overcoming challenges, balancing work and family, and the pivotal role that good communication and leadership play in shaping a business. This episode offers valuable insights for engineers looking to take on new challenges and make an impact through their work.