Top Skills to Become an Engineering Proj...

In this episode, I interview Anthony Fasano, founder of the Engineering Management Institute (EMI), about essential skills for engineers transitioning into project management. Drawing from Anthony's extensive training experience, we explore communication, delegation, planning, conflict resolution, and leadership. The discussion provides practical strategies for young professionals to build confidence and excel in project management while highlighting the importance of lifelong learning and servant leadership.

Guest

* Anthony Fasano: Civil engineer, licensed PE, and founder of EMI. He hosts multiple podcasts, runs leadership programs, and authored Beyond PM Training. Anthony specializes in helping engineers develop non-technical skills for career advancement.

Key Topics & Timestamps

* 0:00 Introduction and Anthony's background. Overview of EMI's initiatives, including podcasts (Civil Engineering Podcast, AEC Leadership), YouTube channels for FE/PE exam prep, and custom training programs for leadership and project management.

* 2:40 Essential skills for aspiring project managers: Communication with diverse stakeholders, understanding work styles/personalities, and delegation as the "CEO" of projects (focusing on scope, schedule, budget, and team coordination).

* 5:29 Delegation challenges for engineers: Overcoming the urge to handle tasks personally, recognizing delegation as team development, and enjoying benefits like freed time for business development or mentoring.

* 9:29 Effective project management strategies: Focus on upfront planning (project management plans, kickoff meetings), scope/schedule/budget breakdown, managing changes/scope creep, and identifying the critical path to handle delays.

* 13:53 Handling difficult conversations: Building confidence over time, understanding others' needs, maintaining calm to de-escalate, and considering long-term relationships.

* 17:51 Real-world conflict resolution examples: Maintaining professionalism for ongoing relationships and approaching issues collaboratively.

* 20:15 Developing authentic leadership: Embracing servant leadership, prioritizing team success, conducting regular check-ins, mentoring, and creating an approachable environment despite billable hour pressures.

* 22:40 Final advice: Develop public speaking skills to build confidence and communication abilities—crucial for effective meetings and presentations as a project manager.

Resources Mentioned

* Engineering Management Institute (EMI): engineeringmanagementinstitute.org – Access free podcasts, YouTube channels, and resources.

* Podcasts: Civil Engineering Podcast, AEC Leadership, AEC Project Management.

* YouTube Channels: Pass the FE Exam, Pass the PE Exam.

* Book: Beyond PM Training: How to Build a Scalable AEC Project Management Ecosystem by Anthony Fasano – Available Here.

* Newsletter: Sign up at luisfelipeduque.com/newsletter for episode recaps, action items, and career insights.

* Contact: luisfelipeduque.com/contact for questions or suggestions.

Action Items for Listeners

* Assess your communication style: Identify your work style (analytical vs. expressive) and practice adapting to others—start by observing team interactions.

* Practice delegation: List tasks you can offload (aim for 30%) and invest time teaching a team member; focus on the developmental benefits.

* Enhance project planning: For your next project, create a detailed management plan covering scope, schedule, budget, and change processes; conduct both internal and external kickoff meetings.

* Build conflict resolution skills: During difficult discussions, stay calm, understand the other party's goals, and propose win-win solutions—consider role-playing to practice.

* Invest in public speaking: Join Toastmasters or practice presentations to boost confidence; challenge yourself to lead one meeting this month.