Level Design Podcast

In this episode, Kevin Walsh, PhD, PE, SE, shares his journey through academia and the structural engineering industry, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities within the profession. We explore the evolving role of technology, including AI, the importance of community impact, and the need to inspire the next generation.We discuss retention issues, the complexities of historic construction, and the emotional resilience required in the field. Kevin also highlights the responsibility of engineers toward sustainability, the influence of financial drivers, and the critical role of interpersonal skills in professional growth. We reflect on the legacy of engineers and advocate for a shift in how the profession is perceived.We’re joined by Kevin Q. Walsh, PhD, PE, SE, Associate Teaching Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences, Director, Master of Engineering (MEng).Kevin Walsh’s primary areas of research interest are sustainable and resilient infrastructure, pultruded fiber-r

In this episode, we speak with Luis Duque, P.E., M. ASCE, an award-winning bridge engineer with a passion for innovation and empowering future generations. With over six years of professional experience, he has tackled complex projects involving bridge removal, erection, jacking, as well as complex modeling for full bridge analysis. Beyond technical expertise, Luis is a leader. He founded the "Engineering our Future" podcast to equip students and young engineers with the tools to thrive. His dedication extends to volunteering with organizations like Engineers Without Borders, bringing clean water solutions to communities in need. Luis is a recognized leader in the engineering community. He actively participates in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Structural Engineering Institute (SEI), advocating for diversity and mentorship. He is involved in the Student Engagement Committee to help students get exposure to SEI at the Structures Congress among other activities and the Business

Today, we’re excited to welcome Brandon McGill, an executive recruiter specializing in civil and geotechnical engineering. Brandon is the founder of Charter Executive Search and is widely known as "The Civil Recruiter."With a passion for building meaningful relationships, Brandon goes beyond qualifications to truly understand the needs of both his candidates and clients, ensuring long-term success for everyone involved.In this episode, we dive into the challenges and opportunities in the engineering industry, the importance of mentorship, and how Brandon is helping engineers navigate their careers in a rapidly changing market.From the impact of private equity on engineering firms to the growing demand for entrepreneurial engineers, Brandon shares his unique insights into the current state of the industry and what it takes to thrive.We’ll also explore the critical gaps in mentorship, the challenges of retaining talent, and why engineers are leaving the profession at alarming rates. Brandon’s approach

Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Dennis Truax, a true leader and innovator in the field of civil engineering. With a career spanning over four decades, Dennis has made remarkable contributions as an educator, researcher, consulting engineer and mentor. He’s the 2022 President of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and professor emeritus of the Richard A. Rula School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Mississippi State University.An experienced department chair with a demonstrated history of working in higher education, Dennis is a strong business development professional skilled in academic advising, public speaking, private piloting, construction, and stormwater management. He’s also a recognized expert in environmental and water resources engineering, holding multiple advanced certifications and awards, including ASCE’s Edmund Friedman Professional Recognition Award and induction into the Academy of Distinguished Alumni at Virginia Tech.In this episode, we’ll dive into the difference betwe

In this special episode, four of us sit down in Austin Texas to discuss the State of Civil Engineering, Infrastructure, entrepreneurship and the future of the A&E career. We also take a deep dive into Scott’s career and the origins of Level Engineering & Architecture, as well as Level Design Partners.Scott Zurn (Founder and CEO of Level Engineering & Level Design Partners) observed some serious issues in his profession. His peers were dissatisfied and things started heading in the wrong direction.In 2015, Scott Zurn founded Level Engineering, a national firm of independent design professionals collaborating and ensuring that our built world is positively impacting the planet we live on. Level Engineering & Architecture aims to create a new level of entrepreneurial success for designers while simultaneously creating designs that contribute to a thriving planet.The idea for Level Engineering didn’t come to fruition without the extensive experience he had in the engineering and public works secto

This conversation delves into the complexities of community recovery following devastating fires in California, focusing on the emotional toll on municipal staff, the bureaucratic challenges posed by FEMA, and the importance of partnerships in recovery efforts.We’re joined by Disaster Preparedness & Recovery Manager Allison James as well as Engineers Scott Zurn and Jay Blackburn. They share their experiences with disaster management, the intricacies of debris removal, and the need for effective contracting and procurement processes to ensure successful recovery and rebuilding efforts.In this conversation, Allison James, Scott Zurn, and Jay discuss the complexities of disaster recovery, focusing on FEMA reimbursements, the importance of documentation, and the emotional toll on communities. They share insights on navigating the recovery process, building resilient infrastructure, and the necessity of trauma-informed care for both staff and residents. The conversation emphasizes teamwork, communication, and

This conversation explores the multifaceted issues surrounding climate change, its impact on migration, and the role of human activity in exacerbating environmental challenges. We discuss the importance of understanding both natural and human-induced factors contributing to climate change, the implications for human life, and the urgent need for innovative and sustainable design solutions. What are the real implications of climate change on ecosystems, migration, and food systems, – what are some of the common interconnectedness of economic models and environmental impact. The discussion highlights the importance of individual action and the potential for the design community to lead the way in addressing these pressing issues. Chapters 02:57 The Impact of Climate Change on Human Life 06:08 Natural vs. Human-Induced Climate Change 09:02 The Role of Oceans and Ice Melting 12:01 Research Tools and Data on Climate Change 13:30 “The Tipping Point” 14:57 Human Convenience and Its Environmental Impact 17:58 Defore

In this episode of The Level Design Podcast, we dive into the challenges and opportunities shaping the engineering and architecture fields today. Our guest, Andrew, shares his journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, offering insights into the evolving landscape of mentorship, the lasting impact of COVID-19, and the growing shift toward entrepreneurial models. He discusses the knowledge gap created by economic downturns and emphasizes the importance of leadership, connection, and fostering a positive work culture. Andrew also reflects on the emotional toll of traditional work environments and explores how community, collaboration, and open-mindedness can pave the way for a more balanced and fulfilling future in the industry. Connect with us: The Level Design Podcast is a podcast for Architects and Engineers who want to thrive in this industry by creating more freedom, fulfillment and financial security. Join us in uncovering how to restore value and honor to the unique people who choose to be desig

The conversation explores critical themes surrounding structural safety, the commoditization of A&Es, and the historical context of the 1740s in our ‘How we got here” series. Scott addresses the challenges faced by the engineering workforce, including declining interest in engineering careers and the factors contributing to this trend. We discuss the challenges faced by professionals in the engineering and architecture sectors, particularly focusing on employee turnover, the impact of organizational structures, and the importance of mentorship. We explore how the commoditization of talent is affecting job satisfaction and career advancement, emphasizing the need for individuals to find purpose and uniqueness in their work. This discussion also highlights the evolution of firms in the industry and the necessity for modernization to attract and retain talent. Chapters 00:00 Structural Safety and Urgency in Childcare Facilities 02:52 The Commoditization of Design and Engineering 05:59 Historical Context: The

In today’s episode, we discuss the subtle effect Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) will have on communities, highlighting their potential benefits and challenges, including increased density and the need for careful planning to avoid overwhelming existing infrastructure. We discuss the cyclical nature of public perception towards infrastructure, the role of shared community resources, and the intriguing concept of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a potential solution for affordable housing. Tune in as we connect the dots between history, community, and the future of urban living. Keywords Infrastructure, community, ADUs, urbanization, shared resources, history, housing, community planning, transportation, roads Chapters 00:11 - The Cyclical Nature of Infrastructure Perception 01:55 - Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Business 02:18 - Community Perspectives on Infrastructure 04:17 - Historical Context of Infrastructure Development 05:17 - The Tribal Effect and Urbanization 08:32 - Early Road Improvements 09:40

In this conversation, we’re joined by Trevanna Frost Grenfell. Trevanna is faculty at reNourish Studio as well as working with businesses and organizations independently on developing self-organizing potential through application of living systems thinking and developmental processes to their work. She has a background in nonprofit strategic consulting work, but pivoted to organizational development in her current form when she encountered the work of Carol Sanford in 2016, since she found that the methodology and thinking of this regenerative community was the missing piece in much of her previous organizational work. Layering the rigorous application of the principles or regeneration into the practical application of business and organizational leadership development allows Trevanna to work with teams and organizations to re-inspirit their work and to grow into the next levels of their potential within the systems of our world -- many of which deeply need regeneration and restructuring. Trevanna also has ac

Today, Scott talks about 3 main career options you have as a design professional. He lays out his experience in both the corporate world (private, public etc) and in the entrepreneurial world, and his path to a more attractive career path for design professionals. Over the past 8 years, we’ve created a new way of working for A&E’s that combines the benefits of entrepreneurship with the support and resources of a collaborative organization. The goal is to create a more attractive career path for design professionals and address the declining interest in the industry. Level provides mentorship, support, and a sense of community while allowing individuals to have the freedom and flexibility to work on their own terms. The organization focuses on lifelong learning and creating a sustainable future for the built environment in the United States. We discuss: Combining the benefits of entrepreneurship with the support and resources of a collaborative organization. How to create a more attractive career path

In today’s episode, we dive into green infrastructure and sustainable materials, emphasizing the urgent need for eco-friendly practices to combat climate change. But, what if we’re talking about the wrong problem? We throw buzz words out there all the time…green infrastructure, sustainable materials, environmentally friendly infrastructure, renewable energy etc. These are all important, but what’s the larger conversation? What happens when we zoom out? Scott highlights the importance of smarter water systems and evolving transportation needs in a post-COVID world. The conversation underscores the necessity of long-term sustainability in decision-making and the challenges cities face in accommodating growing populations. It stresses the competitive nature of cities and the need for collaboration to fund and develop infrastructure, with a focus on the role of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) in fostering cooperation. We briefly touch on the historical context of infrastructure development in the 1

In today’s episode, we explore the growing knowledge gap as well as the critical importance of mentorship for Architects and Engineers. We discuss why mentorship is baked into everything we do in our collaborative, Level Design Partners. We also address the challenges of climate change and how the built environment affects the planet. We explore the need for sustainable design and the role of technology in our field. Then, we shift to the history of infrastructure development in the early 1700s, focusing on transportation, bridge construction, and urban planning, highlighting both the frustrations and opportunities of that era. Are you one of the 5% of Engineers and Architects who's ready to take on Entrepreneurship? By combining the benefits of independent work with the support and resources of a collaborative organization, Level Design Partners is charged with creating a different path for Engineers & Architects. Dive deeper, fill out the form, and our leadership team will personally connect with yo

The conversation explores the history and challenges of underground infrastructure. From the complexity and challenges it presents today, the transition to clean energy, regulatory challenges, and the importance of planning for the future. It highlights the shortage of knowledge and expertise in maintaining these systems and the overwhelming amount of underground infrastructure that requires creative solutions. Chapters 00:37 Infrastructure in the early 1700s 5:42 Foundations of American Infrastructure 7:32 Early Water Distribution Systems 8:11 Challenges of Sanitation and Waste Disposal 9:05 Overview of Underground Infrastructure 12:06 Evolution of Water Mains 15:23 The Need for Creative infrastructure Solutions 16:17 Overview of Underground Infrastructure 20:28 Complexity and Challenges 21:06 Contractor Responsibilities and Insurance 22:16 Ownership and Responsibility of Underground Facilities 23:14 Job Security and the Future of Infrastructure 25:12 Shortage of Knowledge and Expertise 27:31 The Overwhelmi

Many people aren't aware of how roads are designed, funded, or function. Road infrastructure is crucial in our society, connecting communities and enabling easy travel. In today’s episode, we dive into this topic to reveal insights about modern civil engineering and how we got here. We dive into the evolution of road construction materials and the shared nature of public infrastructure. Scott highlights the challenges of road maintenance and the need for more engineers in the field of infrastructure. Chapters 01:10 The Public Nature of Beaches 03:15 Appreciating Public Access to Beaches 04:41 Infrastructure Development in the 1690s 05:12 The Emergence of Government for Public Services 06:05 Wooden Water Mains 07:23 The Governance of Public Spaces 08:05 The Evolution of Road Construction Materials 10:02 The Shared Nature of Public Infrastructure 11:13 The Maintenance and Management of Roads 12:39 Understanding Road Construction 22:04 The Design of Roads to Fail 23:32 The Challenges of Road Maintenance 29

Scott talks a lot about how taxpayer dollars are actually being used (or misused) to support our infrastructure. Today, we get an inside look with guest Whitney Pogue, Civil Engineer, P.E., Value Engineering & Estimates Coordinator for ODOT (Oklahoma Department of Transportation) for 10 years and now with Level Engineering. Part of Whitney’s role is to ensure taxpayer dollars are used efficiently. After working in roadway design for three years, Whitney transitioned to a project management role in one of ODOT’s field offices. There, she was able to be the project manager on projects totaling over $250 million, including the largest project in ODOT history at the time of its construction. We get an inside look at her career, her passion for value engineering, the current state of infrastructure and what the future holds. We discuss: What is Value Engineering and why is it so important What actually goes into value engineering The meticulous process of repairing roads Funding and forecasting Proje

“The bridges and highways we fail to repair today will have to be rebuilt tomorrow – at many times the cost.” - President Ronal Reagan. Our conversation begins with a story set in the 1680s, describing the simple life of a young woman named Abigail in the Connecticut colony. We explore the evolution from local self-reliance to national and international interdependence and the speed of change. We take a look at the latest Transportation bill - how it’s broken up, what it actually means, and what the future could look like. Scott highlights the importance of clean water and the need to replace lead service lines. They also discuss the economic impact of infrastructure investment and the potential for job creation. The conversation concludes with a call for better communication and transparency regarding infrastructure projects. Timestamps 00:00 Life in the 1680s: Challenges and Resilience 06:18 From Self-Reliance to Interdependence: The Evolution of Society 11:36 The Importance of Investing in Water Systems 1

Join us as we explore the state of infrastructure in the US, the cost and burden on taxpayers, the economic impact of infrastructure investment, and the need for increased investment. We dive into the political nature of infrastructure, the importance of infrastructure for competitiveness as a country, and the declining interest in civil engineering. Scott shares his thoughts on why civil engineers are underpaid and what the future holds for them. He’s got a compelling case for why engineers and architects should be excited about the industry’s future. Spoiler: It’s looking bright! Chapters 00:23 The State of Infrastructure in the US 02:58 The Burden on Taxpayers 04:12 The Economic Impact of Infrastructure Investment 05:26 The Connection Between Infrastructure and the Economy 08:07 The Need for Investment and the Broken System 09:21 The Political Nature of Infrastructure 10:11 The Importance of Infrastructure for Competitiveness 11:36 The Role of Engineers and Architects 12:23 The Decline in Interest in Civil

In this conversation, Miles and Scott explore the technical and non-technical skills that design professionals should focus on, such as keeping up with technology and developing strong people skills. The conversation highlights the changing business model in the industry and the need for engineers and architects to adapt to new technologies like AI. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of preparation and continuous learning in order to thrive in this field. Timestamps 0:19 Settling Around Waterways in the 1660s 3:02 Drinking and Wasting in the Same River 5:35 Cold Winters and Lack of Amenities 8:23 Building Codes and Urban Fires 11:22 Technical and Non-Technical Skills for Design Professionals 19:00 Specialization and the Changing Business Model 20:57 The Need for Technical and People Skills 23:43 The Importance of Communication Skills 26:13 The Impact of AI and the Future of the Industry 28:33 The Ripple Effect of Being a People Person 30:32 Preparing for a Thriving Career in Engineering and A