In this episode, we explore the future of structural engineering and what it will take to continue pushing the profession forward. We discuss why innovation can be difficult in a risk-averse industry, how performance-based design is changing the way engineers approach complex structures, and whether our reliance on codes and software is beginning to replace first-principles thinking.

We also dive into the growing role of AI in structural engineering—where it could accelerate design and innovation, where it could create new risks, and what should always remain the responsibility of the engineer. Finally, we discuss the curiosity, judgment, and problem-solving skills that will define exceptional structural engineers over the next 50 years.

Guest Profile:

Ron Klemencic, P.E., S.E., Hon. AIA, is Chairman and CEO of Magnusson Klemencic Associates (MKA) and a recognized leader in structural engineering innovation. Throughout his career, Ron has helped advance performance-based design and pioneered new structural systems, including SpeedCore. His work on complex and high-rise structures around the world has earned him numerous industry honors and membership in the National Academy of Engineering.

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by CalcBook — the modern way to perform and document your structural calculations. Visit calcbook.com and use promo code SEPOD for 50% off your first three months.

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StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd

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In this episode, we sit down with Joshua Schultz, Ph.D., P.E., to explore the engineering behind grid shells and structural glass. We discuss how grid shells achieve remarkable long spans through efficient geometry, the role of form-finding and computational design, and the challenges of analysis, connections, and construction.

We also dive into structural glass, covering its behavior as a structural material, connection design, redundancy, code development, and the projects pushing the boundaries of transparent architecture.

Guest Profile:

Joshua Schultz, Ph.D., P.E., LEED AP, is a structural engineer, educator, and author specializing in lightweight structures, structural glass, mass timber, and long-span structural systems. He currently serves as a Professor of Civil Engineering at Gonzaga University while also leading Schultz Engineering as Principal Engineer and Chief Structures Nerd, where he helps architects and engineers develop innovative structural solutions. Earlier in his career, Joshua worked at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), contributing to the design of high-profile supertall buildings and advanced façade systems. He is also the author of Structural Design of Lightweight Architecture, a comprehensive guide to the analysis and design of lightweight structural systems. Through his work in practice, research, teaching, and writing, Joshua is helping advance the future of structural engineering by bridging innovative design with practical engineering.

Links & Resources:

Book - Structural Design of Lightweight Architecture

• Routledge - https://shorturl.at/qe5Up
• Amazon - https://shorturl.at/m9Jyb

Links of interesting projects

Transparent Shell Typology

Frei Otto and Gridshell

Taiyuan Botanical Garden

Transbay Transit Center

Grace Farms

Joshua's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuaschultz

StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd

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In Episode 119, we sit down with Travis Slisher to discuss what great leadership looks like in the engineering profession and why technical expertise alone isn't enough to build successful teams.

Drawing from his own leadership journey, Travis shares the lessons he's learned about earning trust, communicating effectively, developing future leaders, and creating a culture where engineers feel empowered to grow and contribute. We explore the differences between managing projects and leading people, the common leadership mistakes engineers make as they advance in their careers, and how strong leadership influences everything from team morale to project outcomes.

We also discuss how leaders can navigate difficult conversations, maintain accountability during high-pressure projects, and motivate teams through challenging situations. Whether you're an emerging engineer looking to increase your influence or an experienced leader seeking to strengthen your team, this episode offers practical advice that can help you become a more intentional and effective leader.

Guest Profile:

Travis Slisher is a purpose-driven leader at Professional Engineering Consultants (PEC), where he focuses on developing people, improving processes, and building a culture that helps teams succeed. With extensive experience leading multidisciplinary engineering and construction teams, Travis is passionate about servant leadership, organizational culture, and empowering others to reach their full potential. He is also a Certified Small Giants Leader and an active contributor to workforce and industry development throughout Northern Colorado.

Links & Resources:

StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd

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In this episode, we sit down with forensic structural engineer Mark Duckett, PE, SI, from Robson Forensic to explore what happens when engineering decisions are examined long after a project is complete.

We discuss the role of expert witnesses, what the legal system means by "standard of care," and how forensic engineers use the scientific method to investigate failures, defects, and construction disputes. Mark explains the difference between simply disagreeing with a design approach and identifying a true breach of professional responsibility, while sharing insights into how root causes are uncovered in complex structural cases.

We also explore the skills required to succeed in forensic engineering, the value of technical writing and communication, and what practicing engineers can do today to reduce future risk. Whether you're interested in forensic investigations, expert witness work, or simply becoming a better structural engineer, this episode offers a unique look at our profession through the lens of evidence, accountability, and lessons learned.

Guest Profile:

Mark Duckett, P.E., S.I., is a forensic structural engineer with nearly 40 years of experience in structural design, inspection, failure analysis, and professional liability investigations. He has designed and inspected everything from custom homes and high-rises to industrial facilities, marine structures, and specialty projects. As an Associate with Robson Forensic, Mark investigates structural failures, construction defects, code compliance issues, and standard-of-care matters, bringing decades of real-world engineering experience to complex disputes and litigation.

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Robson Forensic.

Links & Resources:

StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd

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In this episode, we sit down with Claire Gandee from Bekaert to explore how steel fiber reinforced concrete is changing the way engineers design slab-on-grade and industrial floor systems.

Using two comparable projects, one with conventional reinforcement and one with steel fibers, we discuss how the design process changes, what the fibers are actually doing after concrete cracks, and when steel fibers can replace traditional reinforcing steel. Claire explains how fibers influence crack control, joint spacing, durability, constructability, and long-term performance, while also addressing common misconceptions and practical considerations for specifying fiber reinforced concrete.

We also dive into the real-world impacts on cost, schedule, sustainability, and field construction, highlighting where engineers can unlock the greatest value and where conventional reinforcement still has an important role. Whether you design warehouses, data centers, manufacturing facilities, or other concrete slabs, this episode provides practical guidance to help you confidently evaluate when steel fiber reinforced concrete is the right solution.

Guest Profile:

Claire Gandee, ME, is a senior technical manager at Bekaert, where she works with engineers, owners, and contractors to optimize slab-on-ground and industrial floor systems using steel fiber reinforced concrete. Drawing on her background in concrete design software and structural applications, Claire helps project teams improve constructability, performance, and sustainability through innovative reinforcement solutions. She is a frequent speaker and educator on industrial concrete floors, steel fiber reinforcement, and practical design methodologies.

Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Bekaert Corporation.

Links & Resources:

StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd

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In Episode 116, we explore the world of nonlinear structural analysis and performance-based seismic design. We discuss when nonlinear methods become necessary, how pushover analysis helps engineers understand building behavior beyond elastic limits, and where these advanced tools fit within modern codes and standards.

The conversation covers modeling challenges, common misconceptions, software workflows, seismic performance objectives, and real-world applications where nonlinear analysis can fundamentally change design decisions. We also look ahead to how increased computing power, AI, and evolving design practices may make advanced analysis more accessible to the next generation of structural engineers.

Guest Profile:

Anurag Upadhyay, Ph.D., is a freelance technology consultant who specializes in performance-based seismic design, nonlinear analysis, and advanced computational modeling. His work has focused on helping engineers better understand structural behavior beyond elastic limits through tools such as pushover analysis and nonlinear response history analysis. Anurag is also an active educator and developer of open-source resources that make advanced seismic analysis more accessible to practicing engineers.

Links & Resources:

StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd

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In this episode, we dive into facade engineering and explore how building skins are designed to accommodate wind, seismic drift, thermal movement, construction tolerances, and long-term building behavior. We discuss the different types of facade systems, the loads they are designed for, and why movement joints are one of the most critical and often misunderstood parts of facade design.

The conversation covers slip joints, story drift, facade deflection criteria, joint sizing, masonry veneer challenges, and the coordination required between structural engineers, facade engineers, architects, and contractors. We also discuss common detailing mistakes, constructability concerns, and practical lessons engineers can apply to improve facade performance and reduce costly field issues.

Schematic Detail provided by BHB

If you would like the presentation slides or access to the presentation recording by Jeff, reach out to him at Jeff.Thomas@bhbengineers.com.

Jeff also suggest for additional expertise on this topic, connect with Kirsten Zeydel with Nevell Group. She gives an excellent presentation about all these tricky slip conditions.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirsten-zeydel-48212495/

Email: kzeydel@nevellgroup.com

Additional Resources:

https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/gcr/2016/NIST.GCR.16-917-38.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.structuremag.org/article/challenges-in-cladding-design/

https://www.bhbengineers.com/articles/a-new-approach-exterior-metal-stud-design

Guest Profile:

Jeff Thomas, PE, is a Senior Associate at BHB Structural Engineers with extensive experience in building design, seismic engineering, and project leadership. A graduate of the University of Utah, Jeff has spent his career helping deliver a wide range of structural projects throughout the western United States while mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Sponsor:

This episode is brought to you by CalcBook, the go-to calculation platform built specifically for structural engineers. Whether you're designing steel connections, concrete members, or timber framing, CalcBook helps you create transparent, organized, and code-referenced calculations in a fraction of the time.

Spend less time formatting spreadsheets and more time engineering. Check them out at CalcBook.com.

Links & Resources:

StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd

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In Episode 114, we dig into buckling restrained braced frames with Brandt Saxey, SE, of CoreBrace.

We talk through how BRBFs work, what makes them different from traditional concentrically braced frames, and why yielding in both tension and compression without global buckling makes them such an effective seismic system. The conversation also covers brace behavior, energy dissipation, detailing considerations, coordination with manufacturers, common design misconceptions, and how BRBs are being used in mass timber and other modern structural systems.

Guest Profile:

Brandt Saxey, SE, is the VP of Preconstruction Sales / Technical Director at CoreBrace. He brings deep technical experience in buckling restrained brace systems, including design support, preconstruction coordination, and helping engineers understand how BRBFs behave in real projects. His work sits at the intersection of seismic design, constructability, manufacturer coordination, and practical application of BRBs in modern structures.

Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by IDEA StatiCa.

Links & Resources:

StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd

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TheEngineeringPodcast.com

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