In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Graham Carter, co-founder of Impact Geotechnical. Graham shares his journey from working as an employee in the ground investigation industry to starting his own company, Impact Geotechnical, alongside his business partners. With over 18 years of experience, Graham dives into the challenges and rewards of running a business that handles everything from rail projects to structural investigations and even Formula One tracks. From hands-on drilling to streamlining operations, this episode is packed with insights into the realities of running a ground investigation company.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. The Journey to Founding Impact Geotechnical:

   • The professional and personal factors that led Graham and his partners to start their own company.
   • Lessons learned from their previous roles and how they applied them to build a successful business.

2. The Challenges of Running a Small Business:

   • Balancing client demands with the realities of limited resources.
   • Overcoming obstacles in marketing, bookkeeping, and day-to-day operations.
   • Graham’s approach to maintaining quality control and efficiency through teamwork.

3. The Unique Aspects of Rail Projects:

   • Why rail work differs from other sectors and the importance of accreditations.
   • The impact of Transport for London’s industry-leading approach to geotechnical data management.

4. Innovative Approaches to Operational Efficiency:

   • How Impact Geotechnical achieved a paperless workflow using affordable tools like Microsoft Excel and tablets.
   • Graham’s tips for streamlining processes and avoiding unnecessary complexity.

5. Advice for Aspiring Professionals in Ground Investigation:

   • Graham’s perspective on gaining hands-on experience and staying adaptable.
   • The importance of building a diverse skill set and embracing hybrid roles in the industry.

 

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

In this conversation, Michael Taylor interviews Alex Collman, founder of Soilex, about his journey in the waste management industry. Alex shares insights on the lack of qualifications in the field, the importance of clear communication, and the challenges faced in waste classification. He discusses the role of marketing in the industry and how his company stands out through creative strategies. The conversation also touches on the evolution of Alex's role from working at GRS to leading Soilex, and the significance of systems and processes in ensuring quality service delivery.   In this conversation, Alex Collman discusses the complexities of waste management in construction, emphasizing the importance of accurate waste classification, the need for competent waste management partners, and the future of the industry with emerging technologies. He shares insights on leadership, maintaining company culture during growth, and the significance of effective marketing strategies. Alex also highlights memorable projects and the lessons learned from them, providing valuable advice for newcomers in the waste management sector.   Takeaways

• Alex Collman has over 14 years of experience in waste management.
• There are no specific qualifications for waste management in construction.
• Effective communication is key in conveying waste management regulations.
• LinkedIn serves as a significant platform for business development.
• Alex emphasizes the importance of creating value over sales pitches.
• The industry often suffers from poor advice in site investigations.
• Quality control is crucial as the company grows.
• Understanding the limitations of site investigations is essential.
• Non-conformance in waste management is a common challenge.
• Ground investigation companies should focus on their expertise. Waste classification errors can lead to significant financial losses.
• Internal competence in waste management is crucial for success.
• Direct transfer and reuse of soils can effectively reduce waste.
• Choosing a waste management partner requires assessing their competence.
• Digital waste tracking is expected to enhance compliance in the industry.
• The utilities sector faces unique challenges in waste classification.
• Creating a positive company culture is essential for employee satisfaction.
• Effective marketing strategies are vital for brand visibility and growth.
• Contingency planning is necessary for managing waste effectively.
• Surrounding yourself with knowledgeable individuals accelerates learning.

 

Links mentioned in the show:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexcollman/

https://www.soilex.co.uk/

 

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

 

In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, host Michael Taylor sits down with Mike Austin, founder of Karn Geo, for a deep dive into the journey of starting and running a ground investigation company. Mike shares his experiences, challenges, and strategies that have shaped the early years of Karn Geo, offering insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in the geotechnical field.

The conversation covers key topics such as the motivation behind launching the business, the hurdles of obtaining insurance, and the importance of building a strong, skilled team. They also discuss cash flow management and how to navigate client payment terms, along with tips for securing new projects in a competitive industry. Additionally, Mike emphasizes the role of technology, quality control, and environmental considerations in driving the company forward.

Key Takeaways:

• Investing in technology can enhance service offerings and efficiency. Regulatory compliance is crucial for business success.
• Leadership dynamics can lead to productive discussions.
• Training and apprenticeships are vital for skill development.
• Quality control measures ensure high service standards.
• Building strong client relationships is essential in a competitive market.
• Marketing strategies should align with business growth plans.
• Legal and financial guidance is important for new businesses.
• Staying informed about industry trends is necessary for adaptation.
• Environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important.
• Resilience and motivation are key to navigating business challenges.

Links mentioned on the show:

https://www.ags.org.uk/resources/

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/michael-austin-58739826_coptrz-dji-uav-activity-7250515106030063616-ru9j?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

https://www.linkedin.com/company/karn-geoservices/

 

Chapters:

Applications of Drone Technology in Ground Investigation Soil Decompaction Solutions and Client Engagement Navigating Regulatory and Compliance Challenges Leadership Dynamics and Team Collaboration Apprenticeships and Training in Ground Investigation Quality Control and ISO Accreditation Building Client Relationships in a Competitive Market Marketing and Business Development Strategies Staying Ahead of Industry Trends Environmental Considerations in Business Strategy Advice for Aspiring Ground Investigation Entrepreneurs Resilience and Motivation in Business Future Growth and Industry Changes

 

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, host Michael Taylor sits down with Mike Austin, founder of Karn Geo, for a deep dive into the journey of starting and running a ground investigation company. Mike shares his experiences, challenges, and strategies that have shaped the early years of Karn Geo, offering insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in the geotechnical field.

The conversation covers key topics such as the motivation behind launching the business, the hurdles of obtaining insurance, and the importance of building a strong, skilled team. They also discuss cash flow management and how to navigate client payment terms, along with tips for securing new projects in a competitive industry. Additionally, Mike emphasizes the role of technology, quality control, and environmental considerations in driving the company forward.

Key Takeaways:

• Frustration with career progression can be a catalyst for starting a business.
• A diverse and capable team is essential for achieving business success.
• Insurance requirements pose significant challenges for new companies in the field.
• Strong client relationships are crucial for winning and retaining projects.
• The ground investigation industry presents a variety of growth opportunities.
• Company culture plays a key role in employee satisfaction and retention.
• A structured business plan is necessary for securing insurance and guiding growth.
• Cash flow management is critical, especially with lengthy payment terms from clients.
• Diversifying the client base helps reduce financial risks.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Ground Investigation and Business Journey 02:52 - The Inspiration Behind Starting Karn Geo 06:17 - Challenges in the Early Days of Business 09:21 - Navigating Insurance and Professional Indemnity 13:03 - Securing Clients and Building Relationships 16:46 - Opportunities in the Ground Investigation Industry 19:36 - Roles and Responsibilities within the Team 21:37 - The Importance of a Business Plan 25:36 - Financial Challenges and Cash Flow Management 29:26 - Managing Client Payment Terms 31:34 - Team Structure and Company Growth 38:00 - Future Plans and Expansion

Sound Bites:

• "It's all a fallacy, it doesn't work."
• "We were all a little bit frustrated in our roles."
• "It was hard work and frenetic."
• "It ruins it and you're not allowed back in the house."
• "Health and safety aspects have been possibly the most challenging."
• "It's really important to make sure that before every site we go on to, we have that key talk."

 

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

The Foundation of Site Investigations: Insights from Down Under with Hamish Henderson"

In this engaging episode of our podcast, we sit down with Hamish Henderson, an experienced geotechnical engineer from Australia, to discuss the nuances and critical aspects of geotechnical site investigations. Hamish shares his deep knowledge about the AS1726 standard, the backbone of geotechnical investigations in Australia, and walks us through the key steps and methodologies that define successful fieldwork in the discipline. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or just curious about the world beneath our feet, this episode offers invaluable insights into the complexities of geotechnical engineering.

What You Will Learn:

• Understanding AS1726: Hamish breaks down the 2017 updates to Australia's geotechnical site investigation standard and its impact on the field.
• Key Steps in Ground Investigations: From pre-investigation data collection to planning and executing site walkovers, learn about the processes that ensure successful site investigations.
• Technology in Geotechnical Engineering: Discover how technologies like geological modeling software and drones are revolutionizing site investigations.
• The Human Element: Hamish discusses the importance of experience and judgment in the field, especially in remote and challenging environments.

Featured Guest: Hamish Henderson

• With years of experience in both consultancy and mining sectors, Hamish brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand insights into the world of geotechnical engineering. His expertise spans across critical infrastructure projects and innovative geotechnical practices.

Timestamps:

• [01:30] Introduction to Hamish Henderson and the topic of geotechnical site investigations
• [01:46] Overview of AS1726 and its significance in Australia
• [04:09] Discussing the key steps in effective ground investigations
• [10:33] The role of advanced technology in geotechnical engineering
• [15:10] How drone technology is changing the landscape of site investigations
• [22:23] Challenges and considerations in coastal and remote site investigations
• [32:49] Environmental and safety considerations in current geotechnical practices
• [42:36] The value of hands-on training and mentorship in geotechnical careers

 

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

Hamish’s insights not only illuminate the technical intricacies of ground investigations but also highlight the evolving nature of geotechnical engineering. His emphasis on the blend of technology and traditional methods offers a comprehensive view of how the field is advancing to meet modern demands. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the foundation that supports all our infrastructure projects—both literally and figuratively.

 

 

"Welcome to our podcast, where we dig deep but keep it light, exploring the fascinating world of geotechnical engineering. Today's special guest is [Guest Name], the mastermind behind towering wind projects and the guardian of the sea floor at Wood Thilsted. With 20 years under their belt—spanning continents, climates, and considerable challenges—[Guest Name] has more tales than a seasoned pirate. So, let's unearth the secrets of offshore wind and maybe find some buried treasure in the wisdom of renewable energy."

In this episode, you'll gain insights into:

1. Career Path and Personal Development

   • Simon discusses his unconventional entry into geotechnical engineering and his rise to leadership, illustrating how diverse experiences can shape effective project management strategies.

2. Challenges and Technical Insights

   • Discover the unique challenges of conducting offshore geotechnical investigations across different regions, including Taiwan compared to Europe and Australia. Simon sheds light on managing logistics and integrating geotechnical phases with broader project lifecycles in offshore wind development.

3. Legislation, Safety, and Quality

   • Learn how Simon navigates the complexities of international and local legislation and the critical role of Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSE) standards in maintaining project integrity and safety.

4. Workforce Development and Leadership

   • Gain insights into the strategies for recruiting and developing young talent in Taiwan's offshore wind industry, and the importance of mentorship and leadership in building effective teams.

5. Project Management and Business Development

   • Simon discusses his approach to budgeting, contract management, and the key factors necessary for successful business development within the geotechnical and offshore wind sectors.

6. Local Expertise and Project Success

   • The importance of local knowledge and expertise is highlighted, along with strategies for integrating these elements into successful project execution.

7. Industry Trends and Future Outlook

   • What trends are shaping the offshore wind industry in Asia-Pacific? Simon shares his predictions for future developments in geotechnical engineering related to renewable energy projects.

Resources:

• Link to Wood Thilsted’s website

Connect with Simon Faulkner:

• LinkedIn Profile

 

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. If you enjoyed our deep dive into the world of geotechnical engineering, please leave us a review and share this podcast with your colleagues in the industry. Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes where we uncover the technical and personal journeys of industry leaders.

 Stay curious and inspired, just as our guest Simon does, and keep exploring the geological frontiers that await in the exciting world of offshore wind energy.

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

"Chalk Beginnings to Geological Frontiers" is a riveting episode that unveils the compelling narrative of Dr. Ursula Lawrence, a renowned technical director of engineering geology with over three decades of pioneering contributions to the field. From her initial fascination with geology, sparked by a simple piece of chalk, to her influential role in major infrastructure projects like HS2 and Crossrail, this episode offers an intimate look into the professional journey of a geotechnical maestro.

 

Episode Breakdown:

 

• Introduction to Dr. Ursula Lawrence

  • Overview of her 30+ years in engineering geology.
  • Highlight of her roles in major infrastructure projects, such as HS2 and Crossrail.

• Early Inspirations

  • The story of how playing with chalk led to a lifelong passion for geology.
  • Reflections on growing up near the London clay outcrop and the discovery of a fossil that sparked her career interest.

• Educational Journey and Early Career

  • Transition from pure geology to engineering geology.
  • First job experience with Kent County Council Highways Laboratory and the influence of the oil industry downturn on her career path.

• Significant Projects and Roles

  • Detailed discussion on her involvement in HS2 and Crossrail, including technical challenges and leadership strategies.
  • Insights into the complexities of geotechnical design and risk management.

• Challenges in Geotechnical Engineering

  • Exploration of specific challenges faced during her career, including managing construction risks and groundwater issues.
  • Strategies for overcoming obstacles in infrastructure projects, illustrated with real-world examples.

• Mentorship and Leadership

  • The importance of mentorship in her career and advice for young engineers.
  • Discussion on leadership roles and the balance between technical oversight and team development.

• Future of Engineering Geology

  • Dr. Lawrence’s perspective on the evolving field of geotechnical engineering.
  • The importance of innovation, continuous learning, and adaptation to future challenges.

• Personal Reflections and Advice

  • Dr. Lawrence reflects on her career, the evolution of her interests, and the satisfaction derived from her work.
  • Advice for aspiring geotechnical engineers on staying curious, engaging with the community, and pursuing lifelong learning.

• Conclusion

  • Recap of key takeaways from Dr. Lawrence’s journey and contributions to engineering geology.
  • Invitation for listeners to explore the depths of their own interests in geology and engineering.

Closing Remarks:

• Encouragement for listeners to follow their curiosity and passion in their professional pursuits, inspired by Dr. Ursula Lawrence’s story.

 

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

Welcome to The Ground Investigation Podcast! Get your ski gear ready because today we're hitting the slopes with Alex Nikolic! When he's not carving through fresh powder, Alex is the Director of A-squared Studio, a niche geotechnical and structural engineering consultancy. With a passion for skiing and engineering, Alex brings the same precision and thrill-seeking attitude to both his runs and his projects. So, whether he's navigating black diamond slopes or complex substructure schemes, Alex is always ready for an adventure. Let's strap in and explore the exhilarating world of foundations and geotechnical engineering!

 

Topics Covered in this Episode:

 

Foundation Reuse:

• Evolution of "substructure reuse"
• Challenges and considerations with superstructure reuse
• Balancing client/architectural aspirations with technical and commercial aspects

 Industry Evolution:

• Evolution of the industry over the past two decades
• Opportunities for growth
• A-squared Studio's transition to a one-stop-shop approach

 Foundation Reuse Lifecycle:

• Phased approach from project conception to detailed design
• Integration of new foundations with existing ones
• Navigating liability and warranties

 Transition in Design Approaches:

• Shift from permissible stress approaches to limit state design
• Adoption of partial factoring and serviceability assessments
• Notable improvements in project outcomes with shallow foundation systems

 One-stop Shop Approach:

• Streamlining collaboration between parties
• Impact on project timelines
• Challenges and successes in transitioning to an in-house approach

 Project-specific Foundation Reuse Lifecycle:

• Flexibility of a customized approach
• Unexpected positive outcomes and innovative solutions
• Adaptability of the foundation reuse strategy report

 Mixing and Matching Foundations:

• Effectiveness in enhancing overall structural capacity
• Role of advanced analytical methods
• Advice for professionals hesitant to embrace this approach

 Liability and Warranties:

• Proactively addressing issues during project development stages
• Criticality of early attention to liability and warranties
• Lessons learned in ensuring clarity and fairness in agreements

 

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.

 

Links from the show

https://www.a2-studio.com/urban-redevelopment

https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-squared-studio/

Welcome to another episode.  In today's geotechnical journey, we're joined by Tim Swavley, a true Aussie rock star in the field of engineering geology. Tim takes us through his impressive career milestones, from graduate level to senior engineer, and shares insights into his current role at Macquarie Geotechnical in Central NSW, Australia.

    Tim's Geotechnical Journey

• Tim reflects on key milestones shaping his professional development.
• Tim's diverse field experience across Australia and unique challenges faced.
• Notable projects and achievements that have shaped Tim's geotechnical career.

Humanitarian Engineering and Slope Stability

• Tim sheds light on "humanitarian geotechnics" and his involvement in such initiatives.

Drones

• The role of drones at Macquarie Geotechnical and their value to geotechnical consultancy.
• Comparing the cost-effectiveness of drones versus traditional surveying methods.

 Photogrammetry

• Exploring photogrammetry and its application in geotechnical projects.
• Tim discusses non-drone-based photogrammetry and its benefits.

 Digital Transformation in Geotechnical Engineering

• Tim explains the concept of digital transformation and its impact on ground investigation projects.
• Identifying other technologies poised to transform the geotechnical industry.
• The role of AI, machine learning, and data analytics in Australian geotechnical engineering.
• Importance of geotechnical data management and AGS adoption in the digital transformation journey.
• Envisioning the future of geotechnical engineering with advancing digital technologies.
• Tips for adopting digital tech and essential skills for geotechnical engineers in the digital age.

 Career Advice and Future Trends

• Tim offers advice for aspiring geotechnical engineers and career transitioners.
• Future trends and developments in ground investigation and engineering sectors.

As we wrap up this insightful episode, we thank Tim Swavley for sharing his expertise and experiences in the world of geotechnical engineering. Join us next time for another deep dive into the realms of innovation and exploration!

 

Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/. 

 

Links from the show: https://3d.macgeo.com.au/projects/CapabilityDemo/3mTestPit/App/index.html#%2F

https://www.linkedin.com/company/engineering-ministries-international-emi-/

 

 

Welcome to The Ground Investigation podcast, Episode 19, Part Two, where we continue our journey into the depths of the Earth. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of geotechnical ground investigation with a true luminary of the industry, Natalie Bews. With over three decades of experience shaping the ground beneath our feet, Natalie shares her invaluable insights and expertise.

So, why should you tune in to this exceptional episode? Here's a quick overview:

Business Growth and Strategies:

• Delve into the strategies Natalie has employed to substantially grow businesses throughout her career.
• Discover how she implemented a cost-conscious culture in her current role, and its impact on project management and profitability.
• Gain advice for smaller geotechnical firms and startups looking to establish themselves and compete with larger, more established companies.

Educational Outreach:

• Understand the significance of educational outreach in promoting ground investigation in construction projects and the key messages Natalie aims to convey.
• Hear memorable experiences and success stories related to her Lunch & Learn initiative and its impact on improving understanding and collaboration in the industry.

Quality Assurance and Accreditation:

• Learn how managing accreditation and quality assurance processes contribute to the reliability and reputation of geotechnical companies.

Notable Projects (Continued):

• Explore Natalie's approach to projects involving unique geological or environmental conditions and the special considerations required.
• Gain insights into the role of geotechnical engineering in large infrastructure projects like bridges, tunnels, and railways, and how her work impacts these projects.

Professional Development:

• Uncover the key lessons and skills Natalie believes every geotechnical engineer should strive to develop throughout their career.
• Discover how she stays updated with the latest advancements and research in the field and get recommendations on resources and organizations for professional knowledge expansion.

Future Predictions:

• Get Natalie's insights on where she sees the industry heading in the next decade.

Final Thoughts:

• In closing, listen to the message or advice Natalie would like to leave with our audience, wrapping up this enlightening episode.

Don't forget to stay connected and learn more about what was shared in this episode by visiting https://girec.co.uk/. Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward.