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- A Look Into the Crystal Ball WorkshopA Look Into the Crystal Ball Workshop
The geoprofessional industry is at a crossroads. With a shrinking workforce, increasing retirements, and fewer students entering geoscience and engineering fields, firms are struggling to meet rising service demands. At the same time, automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming industries worldwide, presenting a generational opportunity for geoprofessionals to increase efficiency, productivity, and service quality.
To address this critical challenge, GBA’s 2025 Crystal Ball Workshop (CBW), to be held June 24-25 in Kansas City (Olathe), Kansas, will explore how emerging technologies can help firms bridge workforce gaps and sustain business growth.
CBW Focus: Addressing the impacts of the shrinking geoprofessional workforce, and high demand for services, with automation and artificial intelligence (AI).
CBW Objective: Provide a launchpad for sustained industry-wide action, offering:
- Findings and insights about AI and other automation capabilities and trends.
- Actionable recommendations to address issues related to the shrinking geoprofessional
- Workforce, and high demand for services, using AI and other automation technologies.
Key Topics Include:- The Workforce Crisis – Understanding labor shortages and increased service demands.
- Emerging Technologies – Exploring AI and automation applications in geoprofessions.
- Opportunities – Leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and improve decision-making.
- Challenges – Overcoming barriers to technology adoption.
Prep Questions1. Where are you or your organization spending the most time on repetitive tasks?
Think data entry, scheduling, reporting, approvals; anything recurring and rules-based.
2. What processes do you or your organization follow that require multiple handoffs or approvals?
Are there common errors or inconsistencies in your workflows?
3. What systems do you or your organization use that don’t talk to each other?
Which decisions rely on delayed, incomplete, or missing data?
4. In what tasks do you or your organization underutilize valuable talent for low-value work?
Tasks that pull skilled employees away from what they do best.
5. How do we monetize our technology use? What related changes in our business model are needed?
6. What part of automation and AI will require greater human interaction and skill?
7. What changes are needed in academic curriculums to better prepare students for their geoprofessional careers in the age of AI and other automation?
8. What barriers do you, your organization, and our profession have that may inhibit the adoption and implementation of AI and other automation in our work?
Biases, myths, fears?
9. How can we overcome barriers (real or perceived) and facilitate our adoption and implementation of AI and other automation technologies to address our shrinking workforce issues?
GBA ResourcesA Look Inside the Crystal Ball
The Future In-Focus: Big Data, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence
Opportunities at the Climate Crisis and Infrastructure Nexus
17 min - GeoHeroes - Rick HeckelGeoHeroes - Rick Heckel
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Rick Heckel, PE, D.GE, Chief Engineer at TTL, Inc. who shares his remarkable 40+ year journey. Rick "stumbled" into geotechnical engineering, building his career through persistence rather than natural talent, and navigating roles from branch manager to CEO to solo practitioner. Learn about his groundbreaking initiative to "Elevate the Geoprofession," find out why he believes engineers make undervalued leaders, and hear his uncompromising advice for career success. Rick's authentic storytelling and practical wisdom make this essential listening for professionals seeking both technical excellence and meaningful career impact.Series Summary
In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi interviews past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast examines the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.About Our Guest
Rick Heckel, PE, D.GE, Chief Engineer at TTL, Inc. is based in Nashville, TN. He has 40 years of geotechnical engineering experience working on projects with construction values exceeding $500MM. Rick is a licensed professional engineer in six states. He has been active in GBA for the last 20 years and served as the Chair for the Geotechnical Business Committee for 7 years. Rick is currently President of TNSAVE, which is a volunteer organization dedicated to training engineers, architects, contractors, and building officials to perform safety evaluations of structures following disasters such as earthquakes, tornadoes, and hurricanes. He is also an Adjunct Professor of Civil Engineering at Lipscomb University.Our Host
Guy Marcozzi, PE, D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, is a GBA past-president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations.Show NotesIntroduction• Chief Geotechnical Engineer at TTL
• Based in Nashville, Tennessee office• Lives in Murfreesboro, Tennessee (35 miles away)Early Life and Education• Grew up in Louisville, Kentucky
• Played baseball and soccer• Good student but had to work hard at engineering• Strong in math, took calculus in high school• Master's degree was the accredited degree (5-year program)• Thesis on "time rate of settlement" using PL/1 programming• Only one PC in entire civil engineering department at the time• Self-taught computer skills• Developed patience and tenacity through thesis challenges• Summer jobs: Little league groundskeeper for 3 summers ($125/week)• Umpired and refereed various sportsCareer Path• Graduated 1983 during severe economic recession
• Took 4 months to find job despite having master's degree• First job: Utility company (family tradition - multiple generations worked there)• 1984: Joined Law Engineering in Nashville• Early projects: Dams, hospitals, various geotechnical work• Opened branch office for Atlanta Testing & Engineering (later Core Property Sciences)• Became CEO for 3 years: Financial distress → best year in company history → exit during 2008 crisis• TTL as Chief Operating Officer (6 years)• Solo practice: Ardent Geotechnical Consultants (6 years)• GeoEngineers (3 years, until company withdrew from Nashville)• Current: Returned to TTL as Chief Geotechnical EngineerLeadership• Engineers undervalued as managers and leaders
• Engineering is #1 profession among Fortune 500 CEOs• COO role better fit than CEO (implementation vs. vision setting)• Led GBA geotechnical committee for 15+ years• Initiated "Elevate the Geoprofession" movement• Philosophy: Fix ourselves first before criticizing others• Believes in courage with business decisions (pricing, etc.)The Geoprofessional Landscape & Life AdviceCurrent State:• Profession experiencing uptick after period of decline
• Finally charging fees that reflect value provided• Major challenge: Attracting college students to geotechnicalTechnology & Tools:• Desktop tools dramatically improved (historic aerials, online geological maps)
• AI will be a disruptor• Still using 100-year-old standard penetration test (SPT)• Need better field tools for data collectionThreats:• Losing design work to geotechnical contractors
• Contractors have different risk profiles than consultantsElevate the Geoprofession Initiative:• Website: https://www.elevategeoprofessionalvalue.org/
• Voluntary accord to sign• Focus on living professional values• Hold colleagues to higher standardsProfessional Advice:• Work harder than everybody else
• Take every assignment offered• Study previous similar projects before starting new work• Read extensively (papers, books, technical literature)• If starting over: Get geology minor or strong structures backgroundSpeed Round• Favorite Book: "Team of Rivals" by Doris Kearns Goodwin (about Lincoln's leadership)
• Optimism Index: 4 out of 5 (glass half full approach)• Proudest Moment: Competitor asking him to mentor their employee• Do Differently: Better preparation with geology or structures background• Advice for New Professionals: Work harder than everybody elseFinal Thoughts• Goal to leave profession better than he found it
• Importance of mentoring young engineers• Value of helping others advance their careers• Belief that hard work and persistence trump natural talentCalls-to-action:- Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member.
- Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes
- Contact us at [email protected] with any podcast-related questions or comments
Subscribe- Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe
This episode was produced by the following GBA Members:- Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex
39 min - First Word - June 2025Summary
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!
Links to resources referenced in this video:GBA Membership Information
GBA President’s Letter to Membership
GBA’s 2027+ Strategic Plan: A Vision for Member Success, Industry Impact, and Geoprofessional Vibrancy
2027+ Strategic Plan Document
Knowledge Sharing Webinar Series
GeoHeroes podcast episode with guest David Lourie
GeoHeroes podcast episode with guest Saiid Behboodi
GeoHeroes podcast episode with guest Laura Register
Crystal Ball Workshop
2025 Fall Leadership Summit Details and Registration
2025 GBA Annual Conference Session Recordings
GBA Book Club August meeting
2026 GBA Annual Conference Call for Abstracts
GBA Best Practices: Working Safely Outdoors in Warm Climates
6 min - GeoHeroes - David LourieGeoHeroes - David Lourie
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews David Lourie, PE, D.GE, F.GBA , CEO of Lourie Consultants where he discusses his journey in the geoprofession. Early interests in building and the space program led him to engineering. An ankle injury shifted his path from mechanical engineering and Navy ROTC to civil engineering. A soils class ignited his passion for geotechnical engineering. He worked at STS and the innovative McClellan Engineers before founding Lourie Consultants in New Orleans in 1992. He stresses client focus, technical quality, and service, advising professionals to be curious, give back, and work with class.Series Summary
In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi interviews past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast examines the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.About Our Guest
David Lourie, PE, D.GE, F.GBA is a respected consulting engineer specializing in geotechnical and geoenvironmental services. He is CEO of Lourie Consultants, the firm he founded in 1992 near New Orleans, Louisiana. His career began in 1979 with Soil Testing Services (STS). In 1981, he joined McClelland Engineers and advanced to become President of Fugro-McClelland (Southeast) in 1990. Mr. Lourie has extensive experience managing large-scale, high-profile engineering and construction projects and conducting forensic investigations. He has been an expert witness in multiple jurisdictions and an independent peer reviewer for major USACE projects. He actively shares his expertise as an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Orleans and contributes to the profession through technical and business publications and presentations. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership within the engineering profession, notably serving as the 39th National President of GBA (formerly ASFE).Our Host
Guy Marcozzi, PE, D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, is a GBA past-president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations.Introduction- David Lourie introduction as geotechnical engineer and entrepreneur
- Currently based in New Orleans, Louisiana
- Long-standing relationship with host Guy
Early Life and Education- Childhood Geography: Born Chicago → Tampa (9 years) → Waterloo, Iowa → back to Chicago
- Early Interests: Space program, sports, building models, taking things apart
- Father's Influence: Engineering background, quality control work, taught responsibility through earning baseball glove and car payments
- Lane Tech High School: 5,000-student all-male selective admission school in Chicago
- Unique combination of trade classes (machine shop, welding) and college prep
- Claims most PhD graduates of any US high school
- High School Job: Gas station attendant - learned responsibility, customer service, fiscal accountability
Career Path- College Plans Derailed: Navy ROTC scholarship at Illinois Institute of Technology
- Pivotal Injury: Baseball ankle injury ended Navy career and scholarship
- Career Shift: Mechanical → Civil Engineering (fraternity advisor's suggestion)
- Co-op Program: Alternated work/study semesters to pay for school
- Graduate School: Master's degree with thesis on coal mine waste embankments in West Virginia
- First Jobs:
- Soil Testing Services (STS) in Chicago
- Metropolitan Sanitary District - worked on Chicago's deep tunnel project
- McClellan Engineers: Houston-based firm, pioneers in offshore soil mechanics
- Louisiana Move: Volunteered to salvage struggling office in Lake Charles
- Fugro Acquisition: Became youngest president in Fugro McClellan worldwide operations
- Entrepreneurship: Founded Lourie Consultants in New Orleans (1992)
- Major Projects: $500 million Superdome renovation
Leadership- Management Philosophy: Based on McClellan's culture of "lots of freedoms and holding them accountable"
- Three-Legged Stool: People, technical, financial/business - identified strengths in business development and technical work
- Client Focus: "Outstanding service and high caliber technical work" - not just lip service
- Bram McClellan's Philosophy: "Do it right, do it right the first time, and do it with class"
- Mentoring Approach: Organic, system-wide mentoring vs. formal programs
The Geoprofessional Landscape & Life Advice- Industry Changes: Erosion of advisor capacity, increased price pressure, less focus on human aspects
- Technology Philosophy: Leverage technology for client benefit, not just internal efficiency
- Future Optimism: Firms can differentiate through client focus and personalized service
- Key Success Factors:
- Client satisfaction drives profits, not the reverse
- Alignment of operations with desired outcomes
- Continued investment in people
- Acceptance that failure is part of learning
Speed Round- Favorite Books:
- [BOOK] The Nine Nations of North America by Joel Garreau
- Food and wine books
- [BOOK] Judgment in Geotechnical Engineering: The Professional Legacy of Ralph B. Peck
- Optimism Index: 3-4 out of 5
- Based on teaching experience at University of New Orleans
- Sees passionate students entering the profession
- Biggest Impact: Positive influence on colleagues, clients, ASCE involvement, teaching
- What Would you Do Differently: Maybe "held my mouth more" early in career, but no major regrets
- Life Philosophy: "People make the best decisions they can, given the information they have at the time"
Final Thoughts- Advice for New Professionals:
- Remain intellectually curious
- Give back to the profession and pay it forward
- Have fun doing the work
- Remember: if you build "on, in, or of the earth," you need geotechnical engineering
- Key Quote: "Be the difference that makes a difference and hope to inspire before you expire"
- Professional Motto: Engineering isn't a zero-sum game - "we can all win" by helping others
Calls-to-action:- Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member.
- Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes
- Contact us at [email protected] with any podcast-related questions or comments
Subscribe- Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe
This episode was produced by the following GBA Members:- Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex
56 min - GeoHeroes - Saiid BehboodiGeoHeroes - Saiid Behboodi
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Saiid Behboodi, PE, GE, F.GBA, Principal / Geotechnical Engineer at PBS Engineering and Environmental an Apex Company. Saiid's path was shaped by his cultural background and personal journey. His parents instilled a strong philosophy emphasizing education and being an "A student in society," which influenced his move to the US for civil engineering studies at UMass. Despite facing a language barrier, his solid high school background helped him excel. He chose civil engineering due to its high regard abroad, where civil engineers are seen as "heroes." A move to the West Coast led him into geotechnical engineering through serendipity -- a creative teaching approach helpped him secured his first job. A critical influence on his career and business acumen was his involvement with GBA, where he learned crucial knowledge in loss prevention and risk management, leading to a corporate role. Saiid's personal philosophy, rooted in his upbringing and professional journey, stresses continuous learning, mentorship, social skills, and giving back, emphasizing that relationship is key in business.Series Summary
In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi will interview past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.About Our Guest
Saiid Behboodi, PE, GE, F.GBA is a principal and geotechnical engineer at PBS Engineering and Envrionmental, an Apex company. Saiid was a vice president at Squire Associates before they were acquired by Kleinfelder. At Kleinfelder he served as a national loss prevention officer, NW transportation director and a member of the princiapl professional group. He is a GBA fellow and former President's award winner. With over 40 years of geotechnical engineeirng consulting experiene, Saiid continues to serve as QA/QC reviewer as part of the geotechnical group at PBS.Our Host
Guy Marcozzi, PE, D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, is a GBA past-president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations.Discussion Topics:Introduction
- 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
Early Life and Education
- 00:23 Saiid's Early Life and Education
- 02:40 Challenges and Experiences in the US
- 05:05 Move to the US
- 06:24 Choosing Civil Engineering
- 08:29 Journey to the West Coast
Career Path
- 09:55 Career in Geotechnical Engineering
- 17:17 Entrepreneurial Ventures
- 20:16 Involvement with GBA
- 21:53 An Unexpected Reward
The Geoprofessional Landscape & Life Advice
- 23:40 The Geoprofession Today
- 25:22 Risk Management and Loss Prevention
- 26:49 Embracing Technological Changes
- 30:12 Advice for Young Professionals
- 33:30 Planning for Retirement
Speed Round
- 35:22 Geo Hero Speed Round
- [BOOK] Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson
- [BOOK] Pushing up People by Art Williams
- [BOOK] Three-Body Problem by Cixin Liu
- [BOOK] Untethered Soul by Michael Singer
- 36:21 Optimism index for the geoprofession
- 36:57 Proudest professional achievement
- 38:13 Career regrets
- 39:32 Advice for someone entering the geoprofession
Final Thoughts
- 45:24 Final Thoughts and Gratitude
Calls-to-action:- Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member.
- Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes
- Contact us at [email protected] with any podcast-related questions or comments
Subscribe- Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe
This episode was produced by the following GBA Members:- Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC
49 min - First Word - May 2025Summary
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!
Links to resources referenced in this video:2025 Annual Conference Recap Video
2025 Annual Recognitions & Awards
2025-26 GBA Leadership
GBA Podcast
GeoHeroes Episode with Guest Vic Donald, P.E.
GeoHeroes Episode with Guest Laura Register, P.E., F.GBA
GBA Podcast Case History #50
GBA Podcast Case History #55
Updated Message to Owners: Managing Geotechnical Risk
2026 GBA Annual Conference Call for Abstracts
GBA Member Benefits
5 min - GeoHeroes - Laura RegisterGeoHeroes - Laura Register
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Laura Register, P.E., F.GBA, the National Director for Strategic Business Sectors at Terracon. Laura shares insights into her professional journey, starting with her childhood and early influences, including her father's engineering and entrepreneurial spirit. She recounts her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated engineering field, her career progression through various companies, and her current role at Terracon. Guy and Laura discuss the evolution of the geoprofessional industry, the value it offers, and advice for those entering the field, emphasizing the importance of company culture and mentorship.Series Summary
In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi will interview past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.About Our Guest
Laura Register, P.E., F.GBA is a passionate advocate and leader for advancing women in their professions. Notably , Laura is the Founder of AEC Power Women, a 300-member group dedicated to educating, showcasing, and connecting female leaders in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC). As the first female board member in the history of the Geoprofessional Business Association (GBA), Laura served as GBA's President in 2016-17 and was elected to the GBA Council of Fellows in 2018. She is proud to have co-founded Terracon's iWIL/Increasing Women in Leadership employee resource group.Our Host
Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, is the current GBA president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations.Discussion Topics:Introduction
- 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
- 00:12 Laura provides a brief professional introduction as the National Director for Strategic Business Sectors at Terracon
- 00:40 Laura shares personal details about her life outside of work in Tennessee
Early Life and Education
- 2:07 Discussion about Laura's childhood in Jacksonville, Florida
- 05:10 Laura reflects on the positive aspects of having older siblings
- 07:52 How her exploratory nature has continued into adulthood
- 08:17 The path to the geoprofession influenced by being good at math and science,
- 10:47 The decision to attend Vanderbilt University School of Engineering
Career Path
- 12:28 Laura's experience as a woman in a mostly male engineering class
- 15:17 Joining Law Engineering and finding a supportive community and opportunities in project management
- 16:11 How rapid growth provided opportunities for younger engineers to manage clients and learn about risk management
- 19:47 Re-entering corporate consulting and joining Terracon through connections made at GBA
- 20:34 Laura's 10-year journey at Terracon and her current role as her dream job
Leadership
- 21:35 Discussion on the keys to success in client-facing roles
- 23:15 Importance of a focused approach and the idea that the profession is in the business of data and people
- 24:15 Addressing the lack of a female role model by creating personal boards of directors
- 25:51 The informal nature and impact of these personal boards of directors
The Geoprofessional Landscape
- 26:45 Laura's perspective on the evolving geoprofession
- 27:36 The geoprofession's involvement from start to finish in projects
- 27:55 Positive changes in embracing diverse contributors beyond traditional engineers and scientists
- 29:59 The challenge and opportunity of a shifting workforce and the role of technology and AI
- 30:58 Laura's view on the core value proposition of geoprofessionals as being present from start to finish of projects
Speed Round
- 32:19 Geo Hero Speed Round
- [BOOK] The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande
- [BOOK] Radical Candor by Kim Scott
- [BOOK] Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott
- [BOOK] The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece by Tom Hanks
- [BOOK] Dracula Daily by Matt Kirkland
- 36:21 Optimism index for the geoprofession
- 36:57 Proudest professional achievement
- 38:13 Career regrets
- 39:32 Advice for someone entering the geoprofession
Final Thoughts
- 42:51 "Take the vacation" to refresh and unplug
Calls-to-action:- Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member.
- Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes
- Contact us at [email protected] with any podcast-related questions or comments
Subscribe- Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe
This episode was produced by the following GBA Members:- Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC
45 min - #55 - Case History - Clients looking for the lowest cost have high expectations!GBA Case History Series – Case History #55 - Clients looking for the lowest cost have high expectations!
Summary
An auto parts manufacturer hires a GBA member-firm to develop remediation recommendations for the contaminated area where underground storage tanks leaked. The client did not accept the recommendations of the consultant and pressed for a quicker alternative. When the contaminant was discovered in a larger area, the client accused the consultant of breach of conduct.
Our Hosts:
- Elizabeth Brown, PE - National Practice Team Manager - Geotechnical/Atlas Technical Consultants
Elizabeth is the National Practice Team Manager - Geotechnical 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.
- Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME.
Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups.
Lessons Learned:
- Clients' and client representatives' attitudes are important aspects of any effective go/no-go analysis.
- When the principal client representative has little understanding of the situation, and refuses to spend the time required to gain essential education, a claims problem is almost guaranteed.
- Strong communication is vital to successful projects and client relationships.
- Contracts lay the foundation for a project's outcome so their review is essential.
- Risk should be managed proactively and already having the right legal counsel on your team is extremely valuable.
Calls-to-action:
- Download Case History #55
- Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/
- An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms.
- Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member.
- Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes
- Contact us at [email protected] with any podcast-related questions or comments
Subscribe
- Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe
This episode was produced by the following GBA Members:
- Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME.
- Elizabeth Brown, PE - National Practice Team Manager - Geotechnical/Atlas Technical Consultants
- Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental
18 min - GeoHeroes - Vic DonaldGeoHeroes - Vic Donald
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Vic Donald Vic Donald, a seasoned geotechnical engineer with over 46 years of experience. Vic shares his journey from the Deep South to becoming an engineer with a passion for geotechnical innovation. He discusses his educational background at LSU, early career experiences, and the formative influence of mentors. They delve into Vic's perspectives on the challenges of commoditization, the importance of safety in engineering, and the continuous need for professional development. Vic emphasizes the vital role of passion, mentorship, and adaptability in the evolving landscape of geotechnical engineering, offering valuable insights into the future of the profession and its intersection with technology and data management.Series Summary
In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi will interview past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.About Our Guest
After obtaining a BS and MS in Civil Engineering for Louisiana State University, Vic Donald P.E., has served for over 45 years as a geoprofessional consultant. In the 1980s, '90s and 2000s Vic built an excellent geoprofessional practice in the Southeast United States. He eventually merged his firm into Terracon, and he served for a decade as the geotechnical service line director for Terracon, leading visionary strategy and championing quality for the largest geotechnical consulting practice in the U.S. Now Vic works as a Sr. Consultant, working with Terracon to advance innovative ideas and solutions for their nationwide practice.Our Host
Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi, P.E., D.GE, LEED AP BD+C, is the current GBA president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations.Discussion Topics:Introduction
- 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
Early Life and Education
- 00:13 Vic Donald's Early Life and Education
- 01:41 Growing Up in the South
- 02:29 High School Years and Early Jobs
- 04:12 Discovering Engineering
Career Path
- 06:37 College and Early Career
- 09:17 Building a Career in Geotechnical Engineering
- 12:36 Joining and Growing with Terracon
Leadership
- 18:32 Challenges and Mentorship
The Geoprofessional Landscape
- 21:43 The Future of Geotechnical Engineering
- 23:34 The Art of Geotechnical Engineering
- 25:31 Embracing Technology in Engineering
- 29:33 The Future of Geotechnical Engineering
- 33:32 The Value of Mentorship and Career Reflections
Speed Round
- 35:58 GeoHero Speed Round
- [BOOK] Divided Highways by Tom Lewis
- [BOOK] Bible
- [BOOK] Good To Great by Jim Collins
- [BOOK] A Whole New Mind by Dan Pink
- [BOOK] The Innovator's Dilemma by Clay Christensen
- 33:13 Earnest Hemingway quote, "When people talk, listen completely. Don't be thinking what you're going to say. Most people never listen."
- 36:48 Personal Insights and Advice
- 39:20 Optimism index
- 40:43 Biggest accomplishment
- 42:40 What would you change if you had it to do over again
- 44:19 Advice to someone entering the profession
- 46:18 Best advice you've received
Final Thoughts
- 44:14 Final Thoughts and Advice for Future Engineers
Calls-to-action:- Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member.
- Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes
- Contact us at [email protected] with any podcast-related questions or comments
Subscribe- Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe
This episode was produced by the following GBA Members:- Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC
49 min - #50 - Case History - You can do the right thing, but it can still go wrong!GBA Case History Series – Case History #50 - You can do the right thing, but it can still go wrong!
Summary
An environmental consultant performed a remedial investigation and feasibility study for a state water commission on a Superfund site. When the approval process and project start date gets delayed, the new project manager makes modifications on the proposals and procedures but fails to obtain proper approvals. To avoid a litigation with water commission, the principal in charge offers to complete an approved remedial investigation.
Our Hosts:
- Elizabeth Brown, PE - National Practice Team Manager - Geotechnical/Atlas Technical Consultants
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.
- Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME
Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups.
Lessons Learned:
- The best project teams are both technically proficient AND business savvy.
- Don't lose sight of what you don't know. Remember, we all have blind spots.
- Regulatory requirements must be followed unless approved and documented in advance by the appropriate authorities.
- Navigating relationships between Agencies and Project Parties requires a delicate balance of diplomacy, assertiveness, and a firm commitment to doing things by the book.
- Financial fortitude shows a firm's commitment to integrity and accountability.
Calls-to-action:
- Download Case History #50
- Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/
- An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms.
- Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member.
- Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes
- Contact us at [email protected] with any podcast-related questions or comments
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This episode was produced by the following GBA Members:
- Elizabeth Brown, PE - National Practice Team Manager - Geotechnical/Atlas Technical Consultants
- Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME
- Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental
25 min
About GBA Podcast
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Welcome to the GBA Podcast, where we present information and expertise from geoprofessionals around the globe to provide you with wisdom and insight to help in your pursuit of knowledge. GBA…
was founded over 50 years ago to serve geotechnical, environmental, and other geoprofessionals by giving them proven tools to achieve business success by confronting risk and optimizing performance.