Engineering Greatness

In this episode, Joshua D. Gilman, P.E., director of sustainable infrastructure at the Portland Cement Association, and Andrés Matos Ortiz, P.E., project manager at Millennia Professional Services, share their unique career journeys from geotechnical engineering to the world of concrete and sustainable infrastructure. They discuss how their geotechnical expertise shapes their current work in concrete materials testing and sustainability, while also highlighting the critical role of soft skills, professional development, and maintaining work-life balance. The conversation underscores the value of engaging with organizations like the American Concrete Institute (ACI) to expand professional networks and advance career opportunities.

Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/-y8Cm-YLvtE

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, Madonna Saad, a recent graduate of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Vania Del Carmen Moreno-Colin, a student at the University of Washington, share their journeys in civil engineering. Vania reflects on her transition from participating in a rocketry team to taking on leadership roles within ACI, while Madonna discusses her active involvement in engineering clubs and her internship experiences. Together, they highlight the importance of seeking out opportunities, engaging in research, and leveraging networking and sponsorships to advance their careers. They also candidly explore the challenges and rewards of balancing academics with extracurricular commitments, offering valuable advice to aspiring engineers.

Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/848LlOErp6U

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, Joseph Grout of Texas State University and Emma Roth from South Dakota State University, students in Concrete Industry Management (CIM) programs, share their unique journeys into the field. Emma’s entry was inspired by her father’s career, while Joe shifted from computer animation to concrete sculpture. They discuss research on 3D-printed concrete structures, balancing technical service with customer engagement, and leadership in ACI chapters. The episode also highlights efforts toward inclusivity, concrete aesthetics, sustainability, and the strong support from industry patrons, with a focus on CIM program offerings across five states.

Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/bwmp4YeGDbE

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, Katey O'Quinn, a civil engineer at the Bureau of Reclamation, teams up with Michael Paul, principal structural engineer at Larsen & Landis and president of the American Concrete Institute, to share their career experiences. They discuss the pivotal role of mentorship and ACI committees in shaping their paths, with Katey spotlighting the ACI Foundation Fellowship that supported her research. Together, they underscore the importance of local ACI chapters and the industry's growing emphasis on low-carbon concrete.

Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/Q0jWLojggkg

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, Linfei Li, Ph.D., assistant research professor of the Advanced Structures and Composites Center at the University of Maine, co-hosts with Dr. Xijun Shi, assistant professor in the Ingram School of Engineering at Texas State University. Join them as they discuss their journey from students to professionals in civil engineering, highlighting the vital roles of hard work, resilience, and networking. They delve into their research on concrete materials, stressing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. Plus, they share insights on maintaining personal relationships and work-life balance to prevent burnout. 

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, Kamran Amini, Ph.D., P.E., senior material engineer at AltaVista Solutions, co-hosts with Gabriel Arce, research scientist at the Virginia Department of Transportation. Join them as they delve into their shared love for concrete. From academic journeys to professional development, they discuss their fascination with this essential material and the exciting projects they're involved in. They also discuss how the American Concrete Institute has been instrumental in their professional development.

Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/n54wJ_vNI9M

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In the season 2 premier, Bruno Fong-Martinez, PhD, concrete engineer at Kiewit, co-hosts with Catherine Lucero, civil engineer at the Bureau of Reclamation. Join them as they dive into their captivating career journeys in civil engineering. Together, they explore the significance of mentors and advisors in the field, share insights on pursuing graduate degrees, discuss their research initiatives and interests, express their passion for concrete, and emphasize the value of active involvement in the ACI community. Join this dynamic conversation that delves into the world of civil engineering and the key factors that shape successful careers in the industry.

Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/kx4HwP5Rlyk

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 17, Mirian Velay-Lizancos Ph.D., assistant professor in the civil engineering department at Purdue University, co-hosts with Prannoy Suraneni, PhD, assistant professor in the civil and architectural engineering department at the University of Miami. Join them as they discuss their career journey in civil engineering, research initiatives and interests, and the importance of being involved in the ACI community.

Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/Z0fVPVs1SCs

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 16, Mary Christiansen, associate professor in civil engineering at the University of Minnesota Duluth, co-hosts with Nishant Garg, assistant professor in civil & environmental engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Join them as they discuss their career journey, which culminated in academics, advice for students who are considering a career in academia, what interests them in concrete, various research initiatives, and their involvement in the ACI community.

Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/stzE5TkseuA

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 15, Sriramya Nair, assistant professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Cornell University, co-hosts with Dr. Cameron Murray, assistant professor at the University of Arkansas. Join them as they discuss working in academics, influences on their career, their involvement in the ACI community, and advice for students who are considering a career in academia.

Check out the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/7zMOv8Lw1EM

Engineering Greatness is produced by Association Briefings.