Mark and Mick sit down with Megan Miller, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Deltek, to break down the most compelling findings from the 46th Annual Deltek Clarity Report—featuring insights from nearly 700 AE firms across the US and Canada.

From rising net revenue per employee to shifting industry mindsets, Megan unpacks how the most successful firms are using data, tech, and strategic planning to drive growth. You'll hear what separates firms that thrive from those that fall behind—plus key benchmarks and future-facing trends heading into 2025.

Topics Include:

- Industry performance and financial benchmarks

- AE firms’ adoption of tech and automation

- Strategic use of data for growth

- Project management best practices

- The real cost of lagging behind in innovation

- What to expect at the 2025 M&A Symposium in Vegas

Don’t miss this if you're in leadership, strategy, or biz dev in AE.

Topics

01:05 Guest Introduction: Megan Miller

01:55 Overview of the 46th Annual Deltek Clarity Report

02:27 Key Insights from the Clarity Report

06:34 Industry Sentiment and Trends

10:16 Financial Performance Highlights

16:00 Strategic Use of Data for Growth

20:23 Shifts in Industry Mindset

22:13 Strategic Pursuits in AE Firms

23:25 Integrating New Technologies

25:00 Misconceptions and Costs of Technology

26:18 Genuine Innovation vs. Marketing Hype

30:01 Net Revenue Per Employee Insights

34:33 Industry Outlook and Client Engagement

40:54 Transforming Operations with Deltek Solutions

42:29 Final Thoughts and Wise Words

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Mark and Mick chat with Andra Kidd, CEO of Spheros Environmental. The discussion spans Andra's extensive career, the challenges and strategies of leading a fast-growing environmental firm, and the importance of innovation and digital strategies in the industry. Andra also shares insights on balancing personal wellness and professional responsibilities, the complexities of integrating acquisitions, and fostering a science-forward and employee-centric culture. The conversation highlights the significance of scrutinizing market conditions, strategic thinking, and the power of accountability in leadership.

Topics

01:50 Insights from Alaska Experience

07:27 Leadership and Accountability

09:56 Challenges and Strategies in Leadership

13:26 Balancing Personal Interests and Professional Life

15:40 Building Effective Leadership Teams

18:02 Differentiating in the Environmental Consulting Market

18:37 Vision and Mission of Spheros

19:28 Recruitment and Acquisitions Strategy

19:37 University Connections and Acquisitions

20:53 Assessing Company Culture

21:57 Digital Strategies and Innovation

25:22 CEO's Role in Acquisitions

26:53 Travel and Personal Organization

28:59 Partnership with Union Park

29:55 Market Opportunities and Strategic Services

35:17 Integration and Collaboration

36:37 Balancing Business and Science

39:12 Final Thoughts and Advice

Topics

01:16 Introducing the Guest: Neil Churman

01:27 Neil's Background and Career Journey

04:09 Leadership Insights and Building Trust

15:11 Creating a Positive Work Environment

24:58 Navigating Global Time Zones

25:15 Building a Culture of Connectivity

25:40 Strategic Initiatives and Collaboration

25:57 Global Delivery and Efficiency

26:09 Creating Connection Points

26:56 Understanding Cricket and Rugby

27:43 Focus on Collaboration and Collegiality

29:06 Challenges of Integrating Diverse Teams

32:37 The Role of AI in the Industry

35:12 Adapting to Market Trends

37:36 Global Expansion and Acquisitions

44:30 Characteristics of the Right Firm

47:36 Completing the Cycle of Cash Flow

50:21 Words to the Wise: Thriving Firms

51:32 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of the Word on the Street podcast, hosts Mark Goodell and Mick Morrissey welcome Mike Munn, President and CEO of McAdams, to discuss the management of change in the architecture and engineering industry. Mike shares his insights into McAdams' growth strategy, balancing organic and acquisitive growth, and the significance of branding and mentorship. He also highlights the challenges and strategies of integrating new acquisitions and maintaining a strong company culture. Additionally, the conversation delves into Mike's personal experiences, including his upbringing on a farm, community involvement, and passion for fast cars and powerboating. The episode concludes with valuable advice on the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people.

Topics

00:00 Architects and Change: A Paradox

00:40 Welcome to the Podcast

00:55 Spring is Coming

01:39 Introducing Mike Munn

03:52 Change Management in Architecture

07:21 Navigating the Great Recession

13:32 Balancing Growth Strategies

19:10 Mentorship and Succession Planning

23:28 The Role of Barbecue in Onboarding

24:27 Mentoring and Leadership Development

25:36 Integration and Acquisitions

29:35 Business Development and Community Involvement

32:22 Personal Stories and Work Ethic

35:23 Branding and Market Expansion

45:56 Advice and Personal Interests

The guest is Ernesto Aguilar, President and CEO of Ardurra, highlighting his journey from a 200-employee firm to an 1800-strong workforce. Ernesto discusses the company's growth strategies, emphasizing opportunities seized and organic growth fueled by passionate employees. He shares insights on transitioning from structural engineering to leadership, the importance of company culture, the challenges of mergers and acquisitions, and the evolving work-life balance in today's workforce. Ernesto also touches on the significance of a supportive network and adaptable leadership as essential elements for sustained growth.

Topics

00:00 Introduction and Company Growth

01:43 Introducing Ernesto Aguilar

02:02 Ernesto's Background and Career Journey

08:38 Naming the Company Ardurra

12:29 Growth Strategy and Employee Involvement

18:35 Spotting the Tells: Identifying Genuine Intentions

19:24 Career Milestones: From Powell to PBSNJ

20:52 Balancing Work and Life: Personal Insights

23:23 Generational Shifts in Work-Life Balance

26:48 Scaling Up: From 200 to 1,500 Employees

31:03 Navigating Growth and Risk Management

34:04 The Importance of Networking and Delegation

37:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In the inaugural episode of the Word on the Street podcast, hosts Mark Goodale and Mick Morrissey welcome Mike Carragher, the President and CEO of VHB. The discussion explores Mike's journey with strategic planning, highlighting its importance in sustaining growth and guiding the company's vision. Mike shares his experiences and insights on the challenges and successes of implementing strategic plans, the significance of effective communication, and the impact of leadership in motivating teams. The conversation also touches upon Mike's involvement with the ACEC Research Institute and his vision for the future of the industry. Throughout, Mike emphasizes the balance between focusing on people and performance, and the role of storytelling in leadership.

Topics

01:12 Welcoming the Guest: Mike Carragher

02:10 Strategic Planning Insights

04:42 Lessons from Experience

08:36 Industry Challenges and Future Vision

12:44 Balancing People and Performance

19:47 Communicating Vision and Culture

29:03 Final Thoughts and Advice

35:31 Conclusion and Farewell

Welcome to Word on the Street.