GBA Podcast

By Geoprofessional Business AssociationBusiness News Education Business News

GBA Podcast episodes

April 01, 2025First Word - April 2025
Summary
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:
Benefits of a GBA Peer Review and Testimonials
GBA Board Slate, Officers for Fiscal Year 2025-26
GBA Podcast
GBA Podcast, GeoHeroes series with guest Jay Martin, P.E., F.GBA
GBA Podcast, GeoHeroes series with guest Carrie Rodriguez, P.E., G.E.
2025 GBA Annual Conference, "Guardians of the Earth"
6 min
March 26, 2025GeoHeroes - Carrie (Foulk) Rodriguez
GeoHeroes - Carrie (Foulk) Rodriguez
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Carrie (Foulk) Rodriguez, Geotechnical Group Leader at BSK Associates, who shares her inspiring journey from a youth spent moving around the U.S. to becoming a leading figure in the geotechnical industry. Carrie discusses her early life, education, and varied career path, highlighting the pivotal moments and challenges that shaped her professional trajectory. She also provides insights into her leadership style, involvement in GBA, and her thoughts on the future of the geoprofession. Listeners will gain valuable advice for aspiring engineers and a deeper understanding of the geotechnical landscape.
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
Carrie (Foulk) Rodriguez – Carrie Rodriguez is a senior geotechnical engineer at BSK Associates in Livermore, California. She has been in this business for about 22 years, and is the geotechnical technical lead for BSK, as well as the geotechnical group manager in Livermore. She has a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Washington (1996) and a master’s degree in geotechnical engineering from the University of California, Berkeley (2002). She is professionally licensed as both a civil engineer and geotechnical engineer in California. She is a director-at-large on the GBA board of directors.
Our Host
Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi 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 Guest Welcome
Early Life and Education
01:21 Carrie's Early Life and Background
05:28 High School and College Journey
Career Path
11:17 First Jobs and Lessons Learned
12:43 Transition to Geotechnical Engineering
17:14 Balancing Career and Family
Leadership
21:31 Current Role and Reflections
23:52 Advocating for Geotechnical Engineering
The Geoprofessional Landscape
24:50 Changes in the Geoprofession
27:05 Engaging the Younger Generation
32:17 Harnessing Social Media and Technology
Speed Round
36:36 [BOOK] John Muir: The Eight Wilderness Discovery Books by John Muir
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
48:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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
51 min
March 12, 2025GeoHeroes - Jay Martin
GeoHeroes - Jay Martin
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Jay Martin, retired Senior Vice President at WSP, to discuss his long and varied career in geotechnical engineering. Jay shares his personal background, moving from Louisville to Nashville, and his path through various roles and mentorships within the field. They explore the cultural adjustments, the evolution of the geotechnical profession, and the future of geoprofessionals. Jay offers advice for those entering the field and reflects on his career's impact and lessons learned.
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
Jay Martin - Over Jay’s forty-three-year career he served as a senior professional and principal engineer in the engineering consulting industry with a background for both privately held and publicly traded companies. Jay has a great balance of experience in operations, sales, and management, with a background in geotechnical, civil & environmental services, Prior to retiring at the end of 2022, he was a Senior Vice President and member of the global Strategy and Development team leading the Transportation Sector. Jay continues to consult part-time.
Our Host
Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi 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
Early Life and Education
00:14 Jay's Background and Early Life
01:26 Growing Up in Louisville
03:11 Educational Journey and Early Career
Career Path
08:36 Career Development and Mentorship
14:17 Cultural Shifts and Work-Life Balance
16:50 Career Progression and Acquisitions
Leadership
20:57 Reflections on Mentorship and Client Relations
The Geoprofessional Landscape
21:38 Current Views on the Geoprofession
Speed Round
30:04 Speed Round and Personal Insights
[BOOK] The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
Final Thoughts
35:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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
38 min
March 01, 2025First Word - March 2025
Summary
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 Best Practices: Converting Interns to Full-Time Hires
2025 GBA Annual Conference New Session with Dr. Lin
GBA Book Club April Meeting
2025 GBA Annual Conference Info and Registration
GeoHeroes Episode with Guest Teresa Peterson, P.E., C.M.E., LEED AP O&M, ENV SP
GeoHeroes Episode with Guest Kent Bannister, P.Eng
GBA Peer Review Program
GBA Website
5 min
February 26, 2025GeoHeroes - Kent Bannister
GeoHeroes - Kent Bannister
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Kent Bannister president and CEO of TREK Geotechnical. The discussion traces Bannister's life, starting with his childhood in Winnipeg and his early work experiences, such as his memorable stint at McDonald's and a job at the Royal Bank of Canada. The conversation explores his academic journey, leading to his career in geotechnical engineering and eventual leadership at TREK. Bannister also shares insights on the geotechnical profession, emphasizing risk management, the importance of continuous learning, and the impact of technology. He offers career advice and discusses the challenges and opportunities within the field, reflecting on his own experiences and aspirations for the future of TREK Geotechnical.
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
Kent Bannister - Kent is the President and CEO of TREK Geotechnical Inc., a firm located in Winnipeg, Canada. Over the past 15 years, TREK has grown from a 3-person geotechnical engineering firm to a staff of over 65 employees offering geotechnical, water resources, and environmental engineering services along with a full-service materials testing laboratory. In addition to his corporate duties, Kent also acts as the geotechnical design lead or reviewer on a variety of projects including several large multi-million dollar infrastructure projects. Over the past 26 years Kent has worked on projects across Canada’s prairie provinces and northern Canada. He has been employed with TREK since 2012. Kent presently is a member of the board of directors of the GBA and the Canadian Foundation for Geotechnique. He has previously served on the executive committee and the board of directors of the Canadian Geotechnical Society.
Our Host
Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi 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)
Early Life and Education (00:00:51)
Born in Calgary, Alberta, Kent moved frequently during his childhood attending six different schools by grade 10.
Moving around a lot taught him to adapt to uncomfortable situations.
He enjoyed math and physics in school but admits he didn't have much patience for history and English.
Kent's first job was at McDonald's at age 15. He also worked at the Royal Bank of Canada.
Career Path (11:55)
Kent gained valuable experience through summer internships at AMEC (now WSP).
He began his career in consulting, working for KGS Group and AMEC in Winnipeg and Edmonton.
He spent time in Fort McMurray, Alberta, working on oil sands tailings ponds.
Later, Kent joined Manitoba Hydro, focusing on dam safety and geotechnical support for electrical transmission group.
In 2012, Kent joined Trek Geotechnical.
Leadership and Challenges (16:50)
Kent discusses the challenges of transitioning from a technical role to management.
He highlights the significance of understanding and relating to people.
As CEO, Kent is focused on strategic planning, geographical expansion, and becoming more forward-looking.
The Geoprofessional Landscape (25:00)
Kent believes the demand for geo-professional services is growing due to aging infrastructure and climate change.
He emphasizes the importance of strong technical skills, risk management, and communication.
The Canadian Geotechnical Society focuses on landslide risks and aging infrastructure.
Geotechnical engineering in Canada involves a broader scope of work and less specialization compared to the United States.
He acknowledges the challenges of recruiting staff due to travel, long hours, and seasonal work but emphasizes the unique experiences gained in remote locations such as Baffin Island which is close to the North Pole.
Technology and the Future (31:50)
Kent acknowledges the significant impact of technology on the profession, particularly the availability of analytical tools and information.
He believes big data and AI will drive future changes, requiring firms to adapt and leverage these technologies.
He anticipates a gradual evolution rather than dramatic shifts in the profession.
Speed Round (35:35:55)
[BOOK] The Stand by Stephen King
Optimism index: 4 out of 5, citing the aging infrastructure and climate change as key drivers.
Biggest impact: Mentoring junior engineers.
Biggest regret: Not pursuing a PhD.
Advice for those entering the profession: "Say yes when opportunity presents itself". Also, trust people, get involved in the profession outside of work, and remember to prioritize personal health and family.
"Say yes when opportunity presents itself."
"Trust people until they give you a reason not to."
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
42 min
February 12, 2025GeoHeroes - Teresa Peterson
GeoHeroes - Teresa Peterson
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Teresa Peterson, a vice president at Gannett Fleming TranSystems and incoming president of GBA. The conversation traces Peterson's career path, highlighting her academic journey at the University of Pennsylvania, her early interests in environmental engineering, and her subsequent career progression into project management within various engineering sectors. Peterson emphasizes the importance of soft skills, systems thinking, and continuous learning in her success. She also discusses the evolving role of engineers in a world facing climate change and technological advancements, advocating for increased collaboration and communication between professionals and the public. Finally, she encourages listeners to actively shape their careers and seek opportunities for growth and development.
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
Teresa Peterson, P.E., LEED AP, ENV SP - Teresa L. Peterson, P.E., LEED AP O&M, ENV SP is a Vice President with Gannett Fleming TranSystems in their Power Group. She also serves as their Corporate Sustainability Officer leading the company on their sustainability journey. She has over 24 years in the industry and is still in love with her chosen profession. She considers herself fortunate to have worked on projects across all facets of the built environment including transportation, rail, water, wastewater, buildings, and now the power and energy sectors. Teresa is also the President-Elect of GBA where she plans to use her diverse background to help spread the message and value of geoprofessionals. In her spare time you can usually find her holed up in a coffee shop with a good book.
Our Host
Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi 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:
Early Life and Education
Early Life and Interests (0:32 - 1:02)
Impact of Geography (1:02 - 1:52)
Reading Habits (1:52 - 2:53)
Ivy League Experience (2:53 - 3:51)
Choosing Engineering
Path to Engineering (3:51 - 6:40)
Artificial Neural Networks (6:40 - 7:44)
Career Path
Early Jobs and Work Ethic (7:44 - 9:30)
From EIT to Project Management (9:30 - 13:12)
Cross-Training and GBA Involvement (13:12 - 15:53)
Systems Thinking and the Future of Engineering
Systems Thinking and Critical Thinking (15:53 - 18:54)
Expanding the Definition of "Geoprofessional" (18:54 - 22:11)
The Role of Engineers in Society (22:11 - 23:50)
Climate Change and Non-Stationarity (23:50 - 27:27)
Disruptive Technologies (27:27 - 30:21)
The Future of Engineering (30:21 - 32:19)
Reflections and Advice
Biggest Impact and Advice (33:44 - 37:42)
Closing Remarks (37:42 - 38:11)
[BOOK] The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
[BOOK] A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
[BOOK] Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life by Marshall B. Rosenberg
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
40 min
February 01, 2025First Word - February 2025
Summary
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:
Career Continuum Early Professional Class
GBA Website
GBA NEWSlog
GBA Podcast
GeoHeroes Podcast Series
GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Ed Alizadeh, Ed Alizadeh, P.E., J.D., F.GBA
GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Stewart Osgood, P.E., F.GBA
GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Kurt Fraese, L.G., F.GBA
GBA Book Club
2025 GBA Crystal Ball Workshop
2025 GBA Annual Conference Registration and Information
6 min
January 29, 2025GeoHeroes - Kurt Fraese
GeoHeroes - Kurt Fraese
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Kurt Fraese, exploring Fraese's career journey, from his childhood interests to his leadership roles at various firms, including his time as CEO of GeoEngineers. His experiences highlight the importance of adaptability, preparedness, and a long-term vision. Fraese also discusses the future of the geoprofession, emphasizing the need for embracing technology and strengthening community engagement. Finally, he shares advice for aspiring geoprofessionals, focusing on the interconnectedness of businesses, clients, and communities.
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
Kurt Fraese has provided consulting services to clients in the Energy, Development, Transportation, Federal Government and Water and Natural Resource markets since beginning his career with Woodward-Clyde Consultants in 1983, serving in their geophysics division and later in their dams and tunnels group. Kurt joined GeoEngineers in 1988, became CEO/President in March of 2007 and retired from the firm in April 2017. His technical expertise is primarily focused on assessment and remediation of hazardous substances in various media. He has served as project manager and/or principal in charge of over 1200 site studies. His business experience includes strategic planning, mergers/acquisitions, market intelligence, client feedback/engagement, ownership/leadership transition, executive coaching, conflict resolution, professional development and peer review.
Fraese and Associates provides business facilitation, advisory, and coaching services for organizations and executives.
Our Host
Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi 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:
Kurt's Journey
Early Life and Influences:
Early Life and Formative Years
Early jobs
Firefighting Experience
Career Path:
Career at Woodward Clyde and GeoEngineers
Leadership and Communication Skills
Life After "Retirement":
Post-Retirement Activities
The Geoprofessions: Current State and Future
Global Perspective and Long-Term Thinking
Community Service and Involvement
Insights on the Geoprofession
Looking Ahead:
Future of the Geoprofession
Personal Reflections
Life Lessons and Perspectives:
Preparation and Advice for the Future
Speed Round
[BOOK] Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing
[BOOK] Orbiting the Giant Hairball: A Corporate Fool's Guide to Surviving with Grace by Gordon MacKenzie
Conclusion
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
55 min
January 15, 2025GeoHeroes - Stewart Osgood
GeoHeroes - Stewart Osgood
About This Episode
In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Stewart Osgood, the former president and CEO of Dowl. Osgood recounts his career journey, starting from his upbringing on a Vermont dairy farm to his unexpected path into engineering and his eventual leadership of a significantly grown company. He discusses his approach to retirement and leadership, emphasizing planned obsolescence and the importance of cultivating a team environment. Finally, he shares his perspective on the geotechnical engineering profession, including concerns about risk aversion and a need for more innovation, and offers advice to those entering the field.
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
Stewart Osgood - Stewart is the former President and CEO of a top 150 engineering firm with 550 employees located in 20 offices in the western U.S. During Stewart’s 22 years of leadership the company grew 10-fold in real terms. The company has 50 employee/manager owners and is poised to poised to continue under this ownership model long into the future. Stewart also oversaw the leadership transition to the next generation with the selection and successful turnover of top spots in the organization including CEO, COO, CIO, CPO, CRO, and Chairperson of the Board. Stewart founded and developed an Emerging Leader training program at the firm as a means of training and inducting next-next-gen leadership, and created a synthetic equity program to share in the financial successes of the company with up-and-coming early career rainmakers.
Stewart enjoys cycling and home improvement projects. He had two adult children that are early career professionals in technical and legal circles. He and his long-term partner Amy live in Scottsdale Arizona with their two dogs Georgie and Brutus.
Our Host
Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi 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:
Stewart's Journey
Early Life and Influences:
Growing Up on a Dairy Farm [1:11-3:25]
Impactful Mentors [3:25-6:24]
Career Path:
Transition from College to Career [6:24-10:48]
Leadership at Dowl [10:48-11:31]
Company Growth and Transitions [11:31-14:21]
Planning for Retirement and Succession [14:21-17:20]
Life After Dowl:
Post-Retirement Plans [17:20-18:55]
Passion for Cycling [18:55-19:56]
Insights on the Geoprofession
Current State:
Overview of the Geoprofessional Landscape [19:56-23:14]
Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry [21:41-23:14]
Forces of Change:
Alternative Project Delivery [23:40-24:44]
Disruptive Technology (AI) [24:44-25:29]
Changes in Demographics and Diversity [25:29-27:19]
Looking Ahead:
Future of Geoprofessional Businesses [27:19-28:46]
Advice for New Geoprofessionals [34:44-36:33]
Personal Reflections
Making a Difference:
Impactful Contributions [32:06-33:23]
Life Lessons and Perspectives:
Reflections on Career Choices [33:23-34:44]
Optimism Index [30:52-32:06]
Favorite Books [29:32-30:46]
[BOOK] The Last Place on Earth by Roland Huntford
[BOOK] Books about Ernest Shackleton by Roland Huntford
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
37 min
January 01, 2025First Word - January 2025
Summary
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:
Career Continuum Early Professional Class
GeoHeroes Podcast Series
GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Mark Kramer, P.E., F.GBA
GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Charlie Head, P.E., P.G., F.GBA
GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Elizabeth Clarke
GBA Book Club
Winter Reading List for Geoprofessionals
Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award Information
2025 GBA Annual Conference Registration and Information
GBA NEWSlog
Follow GBA on LinkedIn
Join the GBA Group on LinkedIn
GBA’s New Member Site
GBA Resource Library
6 min

About GBA Podcast

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