GBA Podcast

GBA Podcast

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GBA Podcast episodes

  • GeoHeroes - Ed Alizadeh
    GeoHeroes - Ed Alizadeh

    About This Episode

    In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Ed Alizadeh, a Director at UES and former CEO of Geotechnology, Inc. The conversation covers his career journey, from his upbringing with engineer parents to his leadership roles in prominent firms and the eventual sale of Geotechnology. Alizadeh discusses the challenges and rewards of his profession, including navigating family expectations, balancing work and education, and leading through periods of growth and loss. He offers insights into the future of geoprofessionals, emphasizing the importance of technological adaptation, workforce development, and highlighting the crucial societal impact of their work. Finally, he shares career advice and reflects on his key accomplishments 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

    Ed Alizadeh, P.E., is a Director at UES and was formerly the CEO of Geotechnology, Inc. Ed graduated from the University of Tulsa with a B.S. in petroleum engineering and from St. Louis University with a JD in 1996. Mr. Alizadeh is a strong believer in giving back to the community and served on the Board of Kids in the Middle and Habitat for Humanity St. Louis and currently serves on the Board of Pedal the Cause. Ed has also served the engineering profession; he served as President of GBA in 2008-09, as Chairman of ACECMo from July 2011 to June 2012 and on the Executive Committee of ACEC National from 2020-2022. Mr. Alizadeh was recognized as the Engineer of the Year in Private Practice by the St. Louis Chapter of the Missouri Society of Professional Engineers in 2013.

    Our Host

    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 [0:00-2:22]
    • Ed's Formative Years: [2:23-9:13]

      • Growing up in St. Louis [2:23-3:21]
      • Focus on education [3:22-4:42]
      • "Tough love" parenting [4:43-5:36]
      • Early jobs and love of sports [5:37-7:51]
      • Experiencing prejudice after the Iranian Revolution [7:52-8:44]
      • Choosing a career path [8:45-9:13]
      • From Petroleum Engineering to Geotechnology [9:14-16:34]

        • First job prospects and working in the oil industry [9:14-13:45]
        • Transitioning to Geotechnology and the environmental business [13:46-16:34]
        • Leading Geotechnology and the Decision to Sell [16:35-23:14]

          • Challenges and growth at Geotechnology [16:35-18:06]
          • Decision to go to law school [18:07-19:48]
          • Working with his father [19:49-20:51]
          • Growth trajectory and decision to sell [20:52-23:14]
          • The Future of Geoprofessionalism [23:15-30:00]

            • Opportunities and challenges [23:15-26:21]
            • The evolving workforce [26:22-27:46]
            • The importance of purpose and impact [27:47-28:41]
            • Anticipating changes in the profession [28:42-30:00]
            • Speed Round [30:01-38:00]

              • Favorite books [30:01-31:55]
              • [BOOK] The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz by Erik Larson
              • [BOOK] First, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently by Marcus Buckingham
              • Optimism index for the future: 4-5 [31:56-32:57]
              • Biggest career impact: Helping others grow and develop [32:58-33:51]
              • What he would change: Nothing, embraces learning from experiences [33:52-36:13]
              • Advice for new professionals: Say yes to opportunities [36:14-37:24]
              • Conclusion [37:25-38:00]
              • Say Yes More Often

                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
                    • 41 min
                    • GeoHeroes - Elizabeth Clarke
                      GeoHeroes - Elizabeth Clarke

                      About This Episode

                      In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Elizabeth Clarke, CEO of Structures Group, who recounts her non-traditional career path. Starting with a childhood in a close-knit Italian-Portuguese family, she shares her varied early interests and experiences, including a stint on Star Search and time as a police dispatcher. Clarke details her unexpected transition into the geosciences industry, highlighting the role of resilience and strong relationships in her success. The conversation also touches on her views of the geoprofessional field and the importance of collaboration and adaptability. Finally, she offers advice to aspiring professionals, emphasizing continuous learning and embracing diverse team environments.

                      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

                      Elizabeth Clarke is the Owner and President of Structure Groups, a civil engineering firm specializing in construction inspection and materials testing for public and private projects. Recently featured in 110° Magazine, Fortune, and Entrepreneur for their Extraordinary Women’s issues, she is celebrated for her leadership and vision.

                      A Discovery Bay resident since 1995, Elizabeth lives with her husband, Mike, and is a proud mother and grandmother. She serves as President of the DB Chamber of Commerce and actively leads community service projects with the Byron Delta Lions Club. Elizabeth also holds board roles with the Geoprofessional Business Association and the California Council of Testing & Inspection Agencies.

                      Our Host

                      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 Interests (0:00-3:04)
                      • From Singing Aspirations to Criminal Justice (3:04-8:47)
                      • Discovering the Geoprofessions: A New Path Unfolds (8:47-14:06)
                      • From Tragedy to Triumph: Founding Structures Group (14:06-20:50)
                      • Geoprofessions: Value, Visibility, and the Future (20:50-28:51)
                      • Adaptability, Resilience, and Embracing Change (28:51-39:35)
                      • Final Thoughts (39:35-39:43)
                      • [BOOK] The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
                      • 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
                            • GeoHeroes - Charlie Head
                              GeoHeroes - Charlie Head

                              About This Episode

                              In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Charlie Head, a co-founder of the geo-environmental firm Sanborn Head & Associates. The conversation covers his career journey, including his educational background, professional experiences, and the challenges and rewards of building a successful company. Head also discusses his current semi-retired status, focusing on his passions for music and the outdoors. The interview concludes with advice for those entering the geotechnical and environmental professions and reflections on the evolving nature of 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

                              Charlie Head - Currently Founding Principal and Chair Board of Directors at Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. responsible for helping to lead implementation of the firm's Strategic Plan. Professional experience includes remedial investigation of subsurface environmental conditions; design and implementation of remedial actions nationally and internationally, including projects throughout North America, and in Europe, Asia, and South America.

                              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 & Background (0:00-2:20)
                              • Educational and Early Career Journey (2:20-6:58)
                              • Founding and Growing Sanborn Head (6:58-15:51)
                              • Mentorship and Recognition (15:51-18:48)
                              • Life After Management: Embracing New Chapters (18:48-22:43)
                              • The Evolution and Future of the Geoprofession (22:43-30:08)
                              • Speed Round: Insights and Reflections (30:08-36:47)
                              • [BOOK] Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr
                              • [BOOK] Shantaram by Gregory Roberts
                              • [BOOK] Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life by Richard Rohr
                              • [BOOK] Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom by John O'Donohue
                              • [BOOK] Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
                              • Advice for New Geoprofessionals and Closing Remarks (36:47-39:42)
                              • You get out of it what you put into it. Keep challenging yourself, keep meeting new people, keep learning, and dont ever stop!

                                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
                                    • First Word - December 2024
                                      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:
                                      • New Business Brief: Beyond gINT, A New Era in Geotechnical Data Management

                                      • New Podcast Series: GeoHeroes Ep. 1

                                      • New Podcast Episode: Management Best Practices #2: Professional Goal Setting

                                      • GBA NEWSlog

                                      • State of the Workplace Survey

                                      • 2025 GBA Annual Conference Registration and Information

                                      • Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award Information

                                      • 7 min
                                      • GeoHeroes - Mark Kramer
                                        GeoHeroes - Mark Kramer

                                        About This Episode

                                        In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Mark Kramer, a successful geotechnical engineer and CEO of SME. The conversation explores Kramer's career path, including his childhood experiences and educational background, highlighting the influence of his father and a pivotal college professor. He discusses the challenges and rewards of the geotechnical engineering profession, offering advice to aspiring professionals on building confidence and communication skills. Kramer also shares his perspectives on technological advancements, particularly AI, and its potential impact on the field in the coming decades. Finally, he addresses the issue of attracting new talent to the industry.

                                        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

                                        Mark Kramer - Mark Kramer is CEO and Chairman of the Board of SME, a leading civil engineering and environmental services consulting firm headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. SME has 15 offices in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. Since 2002, he has led SME as the CEO and he has grown SME to over 380 professional and technical staff. The firm has continually been ranked among the top 500 design firms within the United States by the Engineering News Record (ENR) and is currently ranked at 289 in the country. Under his leadership the company has won numerous awards for employee engagement and client satisfaction including recently be named the overall winner of Best and Brightest firms to work for in SE Michigan two years in a row as well as being named a national winner for a number of years.

                                        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 (0:00 - 2:18)
                                        • Early Life and Career Influences (2:19 - 13:50)
                                        • Defining the "Master Builder" in the Modern Age (13:51 - 18:40)
                                        • Disruptive Technologies and Their Impact (18:41 - 25:45)
                                        • The Future of the Geoprofessional Industry (25:46 - 34:10)
                                        • [BOOK] Who Not How by Dan Sullivan
                                        • [BOOK] Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times by Rebecca Homkes
                                        • Personal Reflections and Advice (34:11 - 41:30)
                                        • Conclusion (41:31 - 43:40)
                                        • 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
                                              • 33 min
                                              • #2 - Management Best Practices - Professional Goal Setting
                                                Management Best Practices - Professional Goal Setting

                                                About This Episode

                                                In the second episode of the Management Best Practices series Craig Hill interviews Marcus Dudley, a program manager at Kleinfeld. They discuss effective goal-setting strategies for managers and employees. Dudley emphasizes the importance of "stretch goals" that push individuals outside their comfort zones, promoting growth. He differentiates between long-term career goals and short-term performance goals, suggesting the latter can serve the former. The discussion covers various goal-setting frameworks (SMART, HARD), highlighting the need for measurable, time-bound goals with regular check-ins and manager facilitation, but ultimately emphasizing employee self-motivation and ownership. Finally, Dudley addresses adapting goals based on changing circumstances and individual needs.

                                                Series Summary

                                                Becoming a manager or supervisor is an important step in many people’s professional careers, and it introduces a set of new responsibilities that they may not have had in their prior role. The Management Best Practices series highlights a handful of those responsibilities, the challenges that can go along with them, and best practices for navigating through them. The episodes in this series will provide valuable advice for new as well as seasoned managers or supervisors.

                                                Our Host

                                                Craig Hill – Environmental Project Manager/Kleinfelder. Craig has 24 years of experience in the environmental field as both a regulator and consultant. During that time he has managed a number of staff at various levels in their careers.

                                                About Our Guest

                                                Marcus Dudley – Senior Project Manager/Kleinfelder. Marcus Dudley is a program manager at Kleinfelder with 20 years of experience in consulting and managing employees. He is passionate about effective goal setting and is considered a champion of the topic. He has mentored employees at all career stages in the goal-setting process.

                                                Lessons Learned:

                                                • Introduction and Defining Goals
                                                • Distinguishing Between Career Goals and Performance Goals
                                                • The Manager's Role in Facilitating Goal Setting
                                                • Nurturing Goal Adherence in New Staff Members
                                                • Clarifying Accountability for Goal Achievement
                                                • Exploring Goal-Setting Schemes and Their Significance
                                                • The Importance of Flexibility and Adaptability in Goal Setting
                                                • Addressing Challenges in Goal Setting: Inexperienced and Disengaged Employees
                                                • Navigating Inappropriate Goal Submissions
                                                • Conclusion and Recommended Resources
                                                • 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:

                                                      • Criag Hill – Environmental Project Manager/Kleinfelder
                                                      • Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC
                                                      • 1 hr 9 min
                                                      • First Word - November 2024
                                                        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:
                                                        • New Podcast Episode: Leadership Lounge #2: Building the People and the Teams that Build Your Projects

                                                        • New Podcast Episode: Leadership Lounge #3: Inspiring Leaders to Bring Out the Best in Their Teams

                                                        • GBA Podcast

                                                        • Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award Information

                                                        • Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award Application

                                                        • 2024 Annual Financial Survey Information

                                                        • 2025 GBA Annual Conference Registration and Information

                                                        • 6 min
                                                        • #3 - Leadership Lounge - Inspiring Leaders to Bring Out the Best in Their Teams
                                                          Leadership Lounge - Inspiring Leaders to Bring Out the Best in Their Teams

                                                          About This Episode

                                                          Tiffany and Ryan interview Val Ries, founder of Executive Muse, which offers individual and group coaching and training programs focused on leadership development and author of the book "Chief Inspiration Officer." She emphasizes the importance of communication, acknowledging and validating, and understanding different communication styles through DISC assessments. Ries highlights the significance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in leadership and offers practical advice for becoming a more effective leader, including the importance of self-reflection, resilience, and understanding one's own emotions and the emotions of others. She also provides information on her book, which outlines her approach to leadership development.

                                                          Series Summary

                                                          In the Leadership Lounge hosts Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White have conversations with business coaches and share ideas to elevate your team. Have you ever wondered how a skilled coach might be able to help you or your firm? Well, you're in the right place! In each episode we sit down with a business coach who shares their tools, insights, and practical tips. From personal coaches to strategy planning specialists and even a hostage negotiator who coaches on listening. We will explore topics like the ROI of coaching, how investing in coaching pays dividends beyond the balance sheet. Effective execution, how coaches can help your team stay on task and complete those lofty goals. Innovation igniters, unleashing creativity within corporate walls. Culture crafting, shaping cultures that attract and retain your top talent. Together, let's go on a journey of insight, inspiration, and impact. Remember, success in business is a team sport. And our coaches know how to write a game plan for business victory.

                                                          About Our Guest

                                                          Val Ries
                                                          Val Ries is the best-selling author of Chief Inspiration Officer - How to Lead the Team Everyone Wants to Be On and the founder of Executive Muse. She has trained and coached over 10,000 leaders across start-ups, Fortune 500 companies, and well-known brands like Facebook, Amazon, and Gonzaga University. "Chief Inspiration Officer" is required reading in MBA programs, and her training has helped clients achieve remarkable results like doubling employee engagement scores, reducing attrition by over 10 million dollars, and boosting productivity by over $100 million and counting.

                                                          Our Hosts

                                                          Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2, PMP – Principal/Vice PresidentSME
                                                          Project management professional with twenty-five years of experience related to the built environment. Tiffany manages a department that specializes in weld and concrete reviews. A large part of what they do is related to fabrication oversight prior to construction. Then they also follow the life cycle of the structures through the building phase, and into the maintenance phase. From lighting structures and sign trusses over the highway, to culverts and bridges underneath it, we work with owners to protect their assets.

                                                          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 LLC

                                                          As PBS’ Principal Geotechnical Engineer, Ryan is regularly involved with all aspects of geotechnical projects, from exploration through construction, with wide-ranging scopes and complexity. Ryan leads the PBS geotechnical engineering team, bringing over 27 years of experience in successful project management and engineering in areas such as shallow and deep foundation design; slope stability evaluation, monitoring, and stabilization; shoring; retaining wall design; stormwater infiltration; pavement design; and seismic evaluation. Ryan’s project experience includes multi-story commercial developments, schools and universities, municipal facilities, utility alignments, water and wastewater facilities, bridges, roadways, and industrial facilities.

                                                          Lessons Learned:

                                                          • Introduction (0:00 - 3:00)
                                                          • Val Ries' Journey into Leadership Coaching (3:00 - 8:00)
                                                          • Overview of Val Ries' Coaching Services (8:00 - 15:00)
                                                          • The Importance of Acknowledgement and Validation (15:00 - 22:00)
                                                          • Understanding and Applying DISC Communication Styles (22:00 - 38:00)
                                                          • Integrating DISC and Other Assessments into Coaching (38:00 - 48:00)
                                                          • Addressing the Challenges of Transitioning from Technical Expert to Leader (48:00 - 52:00)
                                                          • Learning from Leadership Mistakes (52:00 - 58:00)
                                                          • Facilitated Book Club Discussions (58:00 - 1:03:00)
                                                          • Closing and Call to Action (1:03:00 - 1:08:00)
                                                          • Book: Chief Inspiration Officer
                                                          • FREE GIFT from Val - How to Inspire Yourself, so You Can Inspire Others
                                                          • Calls-to-action:

                                                            • Connect with Val Ries: LinkedIn | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
                                                            • 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:

                                                                • Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2, PMP – Principal/Vice PresidentSME
                                                                • Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC
                                                                • 52 min
                                                                • #2 - Leadership Lounge - Building the People and the Teams that Build Your Projects
                                                                  Leadership Lounge - Building the People and the Teams that Build Your Projects

                                                                  About This Episode

                                                                  In this episode, we interview with Sydney Jacques, a business coach who specializes in leadership and team development, particularly within the engineering and construction industries. Jacques discusses her career journey, her coaching philosophy, and several frameworks she uses to improve team communication, address conflict, and foster a positive work environment.

                                                                  Series Summary

                                                                  In the Leadership Lounge hosts Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White have conversations with business coaches and share ideas to elevate your team. Have you ever wondered how a skilled coach might be able to help you or your firm? Well, you're in the right place! In each episode we sit down with a business coach who shares their tools, insights, and practical tips. From personal coaches to strategy planning specialists and even a hostage negotiator who coaches on listening. We will explore topics like the ROI of coaching, how investing in coaching pays dividends beyond the balance sheet. Effective execution, how coaches can help your team stay on task and complete those lofty goals. Innovation igniters, unleashing creativity within corporate walls. Culture crafting, shaping cultures that attract and retain your top talent. Together, let's go on a journey of insight, inspiration, and impact. Remember, success in business is a team sport. And our coaches know how to write a game plan for business victory.

                                                                  About Our Guest

                                                                  Sydne Jacques, PE, CSP
                                                                  Sydne Jacques is a dynamic and highly sought-after professional speaker, renowned for her ability to inspire and empower individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. With her captivating stage presence and compelling storytelling, Sydne leaves a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Instead of focusing on building projects, Sydne Jacques focuses on building the people and the teams that build your projects. With today’s shrinking workforce, it’s more important than ever to retain your key workers.

                                                                  Sydne has worked with over 600 different teams and organizations in the construction industry. Her strategy to develop cultures of increased trust and communication consistently results in higher levels of engagement and buy-in, lower rates of turnover and increased profitability.

                                                                  Sydne is the CEO of Next Level Leadership, is a professional engineer turned professional speaker and consultant, often referred to as "the engineer with a personality." Her leadership has led to the establishment of an award-winning company with clients spanning across the globe, including Japan, Korea and Guam. With a track record of training over 20,000 individuals and collaborating with more than 600 teams, Sydne has made a significant impact in the industry.

                                                                  Our Hosts

                                                                  Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2, PMP – Principal/Vice PresidentSME
                                                                  Project management professional with twenty-five years of experience related to the built environment. Tiffany manages a department that specializes in weld and concrete reviews. A large part of what they do is related to fabrication oversight prior to construction. Then they also follow the life cycle of the structures through the building phase, and into the maintenance phase. From lighting structures and sign trusses over the highway, to culverts and bridges underneath it, we work with owners to protect their assets.

                                                                  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 LLC

                                                                  As PBS’ Principal Geotechnical Engineer, Ryan is regularly involved with all aspects of geotechnical projects, from exploration through construction, with wide-ranging scopes and complexity. Ryan leads the PBS geotechnical engineering team, bringing over 27 years of experience in successful project management and engineering in areas such as shallow and deep foundation design; slope stability evaluation, monitoring, and stabilization; shoring; retaining wall design; stormwater infiltration; pavement design; and seismic evaluation. Ryan’s project experience includes multi-story commercial developments, schools and universities, municipal facilities, utility alignments, water and wastewater facilities, bridges, roadways, and industrial facilities.

                                                                  Lessons Learned:

                                                                  • Introduction (0:00 - 2:12)
                                                                  • Sydney's Journey to Coaching (2:13 - 5:52)
                                                                  • The Power of Frameworks and the Upper Arrow (5:53 - 11:00)
                                                                  • Book: Competing Against Luck
                                                                  • Book: Unreasonable Hospitality
                                                                  • Foundational Philosophy: The Human Connection (11:01 - 16:50)
                                                                  • Sydney's Current Work and Passion for Giving Back (16:51 - 21:41)
                                                                  • The HIPP Model: A Framework for Feedback (21:42 - 30:18)
                                                                  • Addressing Conflicting Perspectives and Clear the Air Meetings (30:19 - 33:02)
                                                                  • Sydney's Approach to Coaching Teams and Individuals (33:03 - 35:41)
                                                                  • Connecting with Sydney and Accessing Resources (35:42 - 38:35)
                                                                  • Closing Remarks and Appreciation (38:36 - 40:00)
                                                                  • Sydne's Fall 2023 Conference Presentation
                                                                  • Calls-to-action:

                                                                    • Connect with Sydne Jacques: LinkedIn | Website
                                                                    • 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:

                                                                        • Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2, PMP – Principal/Vice PresidentSME
                                                                        • Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC
                                                                        • Megan Ritsema - Project Engineer/Langan Engineering & Environmental Services
                                                                        • 38 min
                                                                        • First Word - October 2024
                                                                          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:
                                                                          • 2024 Photo Contest Winners

                                                                          • Top Apps for Geoprofessionals

                                                                          • The Canadian Geotechnical Society

                                                                          • GeoMontréal 2024

                                                                          • Fall Leadership Summit Information and Registration

                                                                          • 2025 GBA Annual Conference

                                                                          • 5 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…