In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Patrick Thomas, an engineering geologist with extensive experience in geotechnical investigations. Patrick shares his journey into geotechnical engineering, discussing the importance of hands-on experience, the challenges of working in steep and unstable terrains, and the technological advancements in the field. He emphasizes the significance of collaboration among multidisciplinary teams and offers valuable advice for aspiring geotechnical engineers, highlighting the need for open communication and adaptability in the face of challenges.

✅Patrick's journey into geotechnical engineering began in his family's construction business.

✅Hands-on experience in construction provides valuable insights for geotechnical engineers.

✅Los Angeles presents unique challenges with its steep, unstable hillsides.

✅Technological advancements include deep foundations and slope stabilization techniques.

✅Each project serves as a case study for learning and improvement.

✅Collaboration among consultants, contractors, and engineers is crucial for project success.

✅Effective communication can prevent small issues from escalating into larger problems.

✅Safety is the top priority on construction sites.

✅Maintaining a cool head helps in managing different personalities on teams.

✅Aspiring engineers should keep an open mind and be adaptable to change.

Memorable Quotes from Patrick Thomas

🗣️"I grew up in the engineering construction field."

🗣️"Every project I worked on was its own case study."

🗣️"It's necessary that we all work together."

🗣️"Safety is number one."

🗣️"You have to deal with the hand you've been dealt."

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://geoexpertsearch.com

In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Louis Schulte, a senior geotechnical engineer, discussing his extensive experience in the field of geotechnical engineering. They explore the importance of field experience, the innovative design-build model in Ohio, challenges faced in shale plays, the significance of instrumentation, and the need for local expertise. Louis emphasizes the importance of mentoring young engineers and the necessity of practical knowledge in the field. The discussion concludes with insights on overcoming engineering myths and the importance of simplicity in engineering solutions.

✅Field experience is invaluable for engineers.

✅Ohio's design-build model fosters innovation and collaboration.

✅Local knowledge is crucial in geotechnical projects.

✅Instrumentation helps verify engineering work effectively.

✅Overcomplication in engineering can lead to misunderstandings.

✅Mentoring young engineers is essential for their growth.

✅Practical knowledge often trumps theoretical knowledge.

✅Technology should be right-sized for the job at hand.

✅Simple plans are often more effective than complex designs.

✅The engineering field needs to focus on practical solutions

Memorable Quotes from Louis Schulte

🗣️"We break down the infrastructure beneath your feet."

🗣️"I grew up on a farm here in Ohio."

🗣️"You learn how to be around large equipment."

🗣️"We need local expertise in engineering."

🗣️"Instrumentation is crucial to verify your work."

🗣️"We need to focus on simple plans."

🗣️"We need to right-size technology to the job."

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://geoexpertsearch.com