Cheers with Engineers

As engineers, our work can sometimes be viewed as monotonous and non-creative. Join Luke Nisley and I on Episode 12 as we discuss 'finding the cool' in every project you work on and what difference that can make in your career.

Despite a 13 hour time difference, Jenna and I were able to connect and discuss her life and her recent work done on a gender equality study. Jenna is a licensed engineer and works as an Acoustic Engineer in Adelaide, Australia. She has recently begun research on gender equality in STEM and is diving into emotional intelligence of leaders. Her goal is to ultimately improve female inclusion and retention in the STEM field. Listen in and support Jenna in her endeavors!

Emily works as a Project Manager in Land Development for Manhard Consulting.  Something she really enjoys about her job is being a part of the development of her community. Other than working as a licensed Civil Engineer, Emily is a wife and mother to two boys. Being a mom keeps her busy, but when she does have free time Emily enjoys being involved in the industry through different organizations. It was great to learn about how she maintains a balance in her work and home life!

Vionna has worked as a civil engineer and planner, but also started a business in fitness. After having her two daughters, she decided to back into the AE industry and become a project manager where she has had a successful career. Vionna still loves to stay active and is a huge advocate for walkable communities and active lifestyles. Join Vionna and I as we discuss the importance of having a balance between your personal and professional life.

Christina studied Geology at McGill University in Montreal. She then went on to receive her masters in Environmental Engineering at John Hopkins. Having a background in geology and engineering set her up for a successful career. Although Christina has independently had a successful career, she credits a lot of her advancement to being a part of a professional organization for women called CREW. Also, since recording this episode, Christina has been promoted to Associate Principal/VP! Congratulations, Christina. It was a pleasure chatting with you!

Kim Cowman is a licensed Mechanical Engineer from Omaha, Nebraska. She studied Architectural Engineering for undergrad and then went on to receive her masters from University of Nebraska. Kim’s current role is National Director of Engineering and has been in that role since early 2020. She is responsible for the overall growth and performance of all of the engineering practices across the firm.  Her firm has engineers that practice mechanical, electrical, structural, commissioning, fire protection, and architectural lighting design. It was great to discuss career growth and motherhood with Kim!

Sarah Gudeman is a professional mechanical engineer with close to two decades of expertise in energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, sustainability, and wellness. As a Principal and Building Science Practice Lead at BranchPattern, she takes an active role in both the firm's projects and operations. In alignment with BranchPattern's mission, Sarah supports the aim to "Improve Life through Better Built Environments." And strives to embody the principle of "Be the Change you want to see in the world".

Madeline Dent studied structural engineering but decided to get out of her design role and pursue an MBA at Harvard. Her engineering and business background have taken her lots of places but her real passion is mentoring tech startups and helping them find their niche.

Join me and Matt Moore for Episode 4 to learn about Matt's career journey and how he ended up as a Vice President at a top architectural/engineering firm.

For Episode 3 I interviewed Amanda Robinson, an acoustic engineer originally from Australia and now residing in Toronto - which makes this the first episode recorded internationally! Amanda is such a great example of what it looks like to be a successful, female leader in the engineering world. Tune in to hear her story!