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The Structural Engineering Channel

The Structural Engineering Channel

Mathew Picardal, PE, SE & Alex Daddow 171 Episodes Dec 18, 2025

The Structural Engineering Channel (TSEC) helps structural engineering professionals stay up to date on technical trends in the field. Hosts Mathew Picardal, PE, and Alexander Daddow, PE, CDT, interview engineers ranging from recent graduates to professionals at top engineering organizations. The show focuses on professional development and career advancement for structural engineers. Topics include performance-based design, fasteners and connections, post-tensioned structures, smart structures, tsunami modelling, earthquake engineering, software solutions, seismic design, blast-resistant design, wood, business issues, and effective specification practices.

Episodes

Innovation in Temporary Works Engineering – Ep 171
Innovation in Temporary Works Engineering – Ep 171 Dec 18, 2025 31:59 Temporary works engineering requires creative problem solving to manage construction challenges in bridges and infrastructure projects. This episode explores practical strategies and emerging technologies shaping this dynamic field. Listeners will gain valuable insights for engineering smarter temporary structures. The post Innovation in Temporary Works Engineering – Ep 171 appeared first on Engin
Innovations in IRC Wind Bracing Residential Design – Ep 170
Innovations in IRC Wind Bracing Residential Design – Ep 170 Dec 4, 2025 57:08 In this episode, I talk with Jim Collins, Ph.D., P.E., Director of Structural Engineering at Keystone Custom Homes, about IRC wind bracing and how it streamlines residential structural design. We explore the prescriptive methods within the International Residential Code, innovative software solutions that simplify complex calculations, and improved detailing techniques that enhance construction ef
Enhance Earthquake Safety with Seismic Retrofit Strategies – Ep 169
Enhance Earthquake Safety with Seismic Retrofit Strategies – Ep 169 Nov 20, 2025 24:59 In this episode, I talk with Joe Demers, P.E., a civil engineer at Alpha Structural, about seismic retrofit strategies to enhance building safety. Despite decades of warnings, many cities remain dangerously unprepared for major earthquakes, often relying solely on outdated building codes. Joe shares his extensive experience in structural repair and design, offering insights into […] The post
Designing Monorail Systems to Solve Real Engineering Challenges – Ep 168
Designing Monorail Systems to Solve Real Engineering Challenges – Ep 168 Nov 6, 2025 47:28 In this episode, I talk with Carlos Banchik, P.E., CEO and Chairperson of the Board at Innova Technologies Inc., about tackling global monorail engineering challenges with creative solutions. We explore what it takes to design monorail systems that combine structural precision, complex geometry and multidisciplinary integration, including seismic retrofits and sustainable transit infrastructure. Y
Automation for Structural Engineers to Improve Design Workflows – Ep 167
Automation for Structural Engineers to Improve Design Workflows – Ep 167 Oct 23, 2025 40:07 In this episode, I talk with Stijn Jansen, Chief Product Officer at VIKTOR, about automation for structural engineers and how advanced digital tools are changing the design process in the AEC industry. From building high-performance automation workflows to using AI and parametric design for structural optimization, this conversation explores how engineers can save time, increase […] The post
How Parametric Insurance Transforms Structural Engineering Resilience – Ep 166
How Parametric Insurance Transforms Structural Engineering Resilience – Ep 166 Oct 9, 2025 27:12 In this episode, we talk with Kate Stillwell, PE, SE, MBA, president of parametric insurance at Neptune Flood about parametric insurance in structural engineering and how it empowers communities with faster, more accessible recovery after disasters. We explore her journey from engineering to entrepreneurship and the innovative models driving resilience. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some […]
Mastering Aquatics Structural Engineering: From Design Challenges to Client Trust – Ep 165
Mastering Aquatics Structural Engineering: From Design Challenges to Client Trust – Ep 165 Sep 25, 2025 43:56 In this episode, we talk with Daniel McCaulley, P.E., founder and principal of Ultimus Engineering, LLC, about building a niche in aquatics structural engineering and why communication is just as critical as technical skill. We explore how pool design presents unique structural challenges, how soft skills turn clients into long-term partners, and why asking for […] The post Mastering Aquatic
How Custom Engineering Solutions Transform Research and Development Workflows – Ep 164
How Custom Engineering Solutions Transform Research and Development Workflows – Ep 164 Sep 11, 2025 41:16 In this episode, we talk with Joshua Tarbutton, PhD, PE, founder and chairman of Bravo Team Engineering Design & Fabrication, about custom engineering solutions that push beyond off-the-shelf tools to deliver innovative automation systems and advanced manufacturing solutions. We discuss how bold engineering innovation, scalable R&D workflows, and high-performance engineering teams turn unc
How AI in Smart Building Design Is Helping Engineers Build Adaptive Data-Driven Structures – Ep 163
How AI in Smart Building Design Is Helping Engineers Build Adaptive Data-Driven Structures – Ep 163 Aug 28, 2025 46:04 In this episode, we talk with Fabio Zaniboni, founder and CEO of BubblyNet and chief vision officer at Zaniboni Lighting, about AI in smart building design and redefining buildings as intelligent, adaptive systems with AI and smart technologies. We discuss innovations that are breaking down engineering silos, boosting efficiency, and advancing sustainability. Engineering Quotes: Here […] The
How Structural Engineers Strengthen Construction Safety Culture – Ep 162
How Structural Engineers Strengthen Construction Safety Culture – Ep 162 Aug 14, 2025 47:39 In this episode, we talk with Shawn Galloway, CEO of ProAct Safety, about how leadership drives construction safety culture across teams and why that can determine structural success or failure. We cover insights from major builds, how military values shape site safety leadership, and ways structural engineers lead safety—even remotely. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some […] The post How Stru
How AI in Education Is Transforming Structural Engineering Learning and Careers – Ep161
How AI in Education Is Transforming Structural Engineering Learning and Careers – Ep161 Jul 31, 2025 42:37 In this episode, I talk with Dr. Fawad Ahmed Najam, lecturer at the University of British Columbia, about how open educational resources and digital learning tools, including AI in education, are transforming structural engineering education and preparing future engineers to design with purpose and build safer communities. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions […] The post How A
Geo-Structural Engineering Explained for Modern Infrastructure Challenges – Ep 160
Geo-Structural Engineering Explained for Modern Infrastructure Challenges – Ep 160 Jul 17, 2025 33:31 In this episode, we talk with Adedeji Disu, Ph.D., Aff.M.ASCE., Senior Geotechnical Engineer at ABNA Corporation, about the power of geo-structural engineering, what it is, why it’s critical to the future of infrastructure, and how he’s mentoring the next generation of engineers to go beyond the technical, think bigger, act with purpose, and lead with impact. […] The post Geo-Structural Engi

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