GBA Podcast

On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful!

On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful!

On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful!

On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful!

Summary

In this episode, we explore how Siemens Associates turned an “unbuildable” site into a construction-ready plot using advanced geophysical exploration. Initially, a school’s building plan hit a roadblock when a non-GBA member firm’s study flagged variable surface conditions and air-filled voids, rendering the site unfeasible. However, the drilling method used was unreliable, causing uncertainties.

Enter a second geotechnical and geophysics firm with a fresh perspective, Siemens Associates. They executed a high-resolution electrical resistivity survey, followed by traditional drilling. This savvy approach cut drilling costs and pinpointed problem areas with surgical precision. The 3D survey unveiled a clear subsurface picture, showing only minor anomalies within the project footprint. Sonic drilling validated the presence of pumicite, a fickle rock, but no alarming voids.

This meticulous assessment flipped the initial verdict, proving the site buildable. Tune in to discover how cutting-edge geophysics and diligent geotechnical work transformed a seemingly doomed project into a roaring success.

Our Host

Elizabeth Brown, PE – National Practice Manager - Geotechnical/Atlas Technical Consultants Atlas Technical Consultants (Link to Profile) -

Elizabeth is the Geotechnical Services Manager at Atlas Technical Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues.

Our Guest

Andy Siemens, PE, GE – Principal Engineer /Siemens & Associates (Link to Profile)

Andy Siemens is the Principal Engineer at Siemens Associates, renowned for his expertise in structural and civil engineering. With a degree in Civil Engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license, he oversees complex projects, manages teams, and ensures high-quality outcomes. Andy excels in client interaction, innovative problem-solving, and mentoring young engineers. His notable achievements include multiple awards, industry publications, and contributions to high-profile infrastructure projects, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in engineering.

Lessons Learned

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This episode was produced by the following GBA Members:

On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful!

On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful!

On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful!

About This Episode

Series Summary

Our Hosts

Tiffany's specialties include program management of multi-year projects, including contract and scope negotiation, laboratory/field testing, data collection, and quality assurance of data. Our projects typically include Certified Welding Inspectors, nondestructive testing specialists, Prestressed concrete specialists, engineers, and laboratory technicians.

Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc.

About Our Guest

As a workshop trainer, Oblinger is a cornerstone of emerging leader programs for American Council of Engineering Companies chapters in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Michigan, Ohio, North Dakota, New Jersey, Iowa, and Georgia. He regularly speaks for NSPE, ACEC, AIA, SMPS, AGC, SEI Reunions, Surety/Risk Management, and other specialty design/build audiences.

Lessons Learned:

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This episode was produced by the following GBA Members:

About This Episode

“Our aversion to difficult conversations comes from the inherent potential for conflict associated with corrective actions,” Bell says. “But through a well-prepared, strategic approach, we can address pressing concerns amicably and simultaneously build a culture of mutual understanding.”

By embracing discomfort as a catalyst for positive change, we pave the way for enhanced collaboration, improved relationships, and a resilient, forward-thinking workplace.

Series Summary

Our Host

About Our Guest

Lessons Learned:

Calls-to-action:

Subscribe

This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: