Episodes

  • In this Episode, Olivia talks about 3 life lessons engineers who learn English as a second (or third) language, can learn from the Austrian oak, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

    As an expat, Arnold was always mocked for his thick Austrian accent, mocked for his appearance, and his ambitions.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    that he was not afraid to ask for help. And he was willing to learn off anyone. Even took advice from a ballet teacher to improve his performance on stage. Tip: Ask your colleagues and friends to help you learn English.that he knew about the power of a positive environment. As bodybuilder, actor, and politician he brought people together: to train together, to be inspired by each other. Tip: Connect with fellow engineers who are on international projects or who are expats as well.that he ignored the naysayers. Have you ever had one of those teachers tell you that you have no language talent whatsoever? Ignore them. As an engineer, you're wired to be good at English.

     

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds to improve their communication skills so Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.

    RESOURCES AND LINKS:

    1. Read more about why engineers are good at learning English here: https://www.marcode.org/blog/052

    2. Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you streamline your email writing efforts (with more than 30 English email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).

     

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Technical English and international business communication so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

     

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org


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  • In this episode of English for Engineers, I am chatting with Anthoinette Međjedović-van Winkoop, CEO of Helena Technical Translations (together with business partner Mathijs Mekes) and Chelsea Janssen, who is a  junior translator at Helena Technical Translations.

     

    Join us in this episode as we discuss what’s going on behind the scenes of high-quality technical translations. Anthoinette and Chelsea walk us through the process, from initial contact to scrutinizing reviews and finally delivering optimal results.

     

    "Translation is that which transforms everything so that nothing changes."

     

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’ll LEARN:

    What steps are involved in a professional translation process.Why context is everything.In which ways engineers can support translators.And what an ISO certification has to do with the 4-eye principle.

     

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds to improve their communication skills and provide them with interesting facts from side industries so Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.

     

    RESOURCES AND LINKS:

    Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you streamline your email writing efforts (with more than 30 English email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).

     

    Catch up with English for Engineers episode #014 to learn why there’s no such thing as “proper English” and how to use the STAR method to answer behavioral questions.

     

     

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Technical English and international business communication so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

     

    CONNECT WITH HELENA TECHNICAL TRANSLATION

    Helena Technical Translations is known as a customer-oriented technical translation agency. Large international enterprises and SMEs have relied on their highly qualified and experienced translators since 1991. All their translators are genuine native speakers, linguists, and specialize in one or more fields. They are ISO-17100 certified, which solidifies their quality guarantee. 

     

    Facebook: Helena Technical Translations BV

    Instagram: @helena_technical_translations

    Linkedin: Helena Technical Translations BV

    Website: https://www.helena.nl/

    If you have a potential translation project, you can e-mail them directly via [email protected] or [email protected]

     

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org

     

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  • In this episode of English for Engineers, I am chatting with Natalie Peart, owner of Jobspeak Academy, who’s teaching you English for job search and workplace. Her mission? To help international students, refugees, and migrants in Australia to have the Australian career of their dreams.

    Join us in this episode as we unveil the secrets to authentic communication in the Australian workplace specifically tailored for engineers. From IELTS test insights to job market entry strategies, we'll debunk myths, explore vulnerability, and equip you with essential tools like the STAR method. Get ready to embrace your Aussie adventure and discover why "Just do it" holds the key to your success!

     

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’ll LEARN:

    Who should take an IELTS test and why you probably won't need one.If there's such a thing as "proper English," and why vulnerability is necessary.How engineers have to tweak their resume to enter the Australian job market.How to use the STAR method to answer behavioral questions.Why "Just do it" is the best advice you'll ever get.

     

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds to improve their communication skills so Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.

     

    RESOURCES AND LINKS:

    Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you streamline your email writing efforts (with more than 30 English email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).

     

    Catch up with English for Engineers episode #013 to learn about 8 tips for writing English wor emails as a non-native writer

     

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Technical English and international business communication so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

     

    CONNECT WITH NATALIE PEART

    Natalie Peart is the founder of Job Speak Academy, a business that helps international professionals rebuild their career confidence and thrive in the Aussie workplace.

    Linkedin: Natalie Peart

    Instagram: @jobspeakacademy

    Website: jobspeakacademy.com

     

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org

     

  • In this episode of English for Engineers, Olivia is talking you through 8 tips for writing clear and concise English work emails as a non-native writer. In our interconnected world, you can’t get away from writing emails in English. So, it’s time to improve your email writing skills

     

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN:

    Why etiquette is more important than grammarHow to keep it short & sweetWhy even native speakers use templatesWhat template packages are made for you

     

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds to improve their communication skills so Technical + Business English becomes their new superpower.

     

    RESOURCES AND LINKS:

    Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you simplify your project communication (with more than 30 English email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).

     

    Catch up with English for Engineers episode #012 to learn why idioms are a great way to get to know your client better.

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Business English, Technical English, and conversational skills so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

      

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer; her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org



  • In this episode of English for Engineers, I am chatting with Candice Lee, who has been working in real estate and international relocation since 2011. Candice works extensively with big corporate clients, relocating international employees from companies such as BMW, Google, Richemont, Montblanc, Cartier, Wyndham International, Reckitt Benckiser, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Van Cleef & Arpels, The D.E. Shaw Group, and more. 

     

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'll LEARN:

    How to destroy the 'anxious language barrier' and comfortably engage with others. Why idioms are a great way to get to know your client better.What it means to get 'all your ducks in a row' during a home inspection.And why you might want to do a surface sweep before buying a property.

     

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds to improve their communication skills so Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.

     

    RESOURCES AND LINKS: 

    Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you streamline your email writing efforts (with more than 30 English email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).

     

    Catch up with English for Engineers episode #011 to learn about 5 strategies to improve your technical English.

     

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Business English, Technical English, and conversational skills so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

     

    CONNECT WITH CANDICE LEE

    Candice is an experienced realtor who will make you feel comfortable through the whole real estate or relocation process. 

    Linkedin: Candice Lee

    Website: Property Connections

     

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer; her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org

  •  In this episode of English for Engineers, Olivia is talking about 5 strategies to improve your technical English. As a professional, you already know how important it is to communicate clearly with your co-workers, and that’s why Olivia put together 5 tips for helping you master technical English with an engineering focus. 

     

    In this episode you'll learn:

    About mastering cultural differencesHow to focus on key vocabularyWhy watching TV is a good thingHow to leverage resources to solidify your skills

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds to improve their communication skills so Technical + Business English becomes their new superpower.

     

    RESOURCES AND LINKS:

    Top 15 TV shows to improve your Technical English: https://interestingengineering.com/culture/15-best-tv-shows-for-engineers

    Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you simplify your project communication (with more 30+ English work email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).

     

    Catch up with English for Engineers episode #010 to learn about ethical communication and why clear is always kind.

     

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where Olivia helps engineers master their Business English, Technical English, and conversational skills so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

      

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, her speciality is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org

  • In this episode of English for Engineers, I am chatting with Aimee Arsenault, founder of Transmit Safety, a health and safety consulting firm based in Alberta/Canada. Having worked in health and safety for 15+ years, her background in Anthropology and her love for languages make her the ideal guest to start Season 2 of the English for Engineers podcast.

     In this episode, you'll learn:

    - What is ethical communication.

    - What is safety communication.

    - And if there is such a thing as technical communication.

     - What is meant by "Clear is Kind".

     

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds to improve their communication skills so Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.

     

    RESOURCES AND LINKS:

    You can find part 2 of this conversation over at Aimee's Transmit Safety podcast: https://transmitsafety.com/2023/02/20/18-its-not-always-about-the-language-with-olivia-augustin/

     

    Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you streamline your email writing efforts (with more than 30 English email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).

     

    Catch up with English for Engineers episode #009 to learn about the necessity to say 'no' and why too much flexibility is a danger to your boundaries.

     

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Business English, Technical English, and conversational skills so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

     

    CONNECT WITH AIMEE ARSENAULT

    Aimee Arsenault is a CRSP and CHSC. She is the founder of Transmit Safety, a business that helps you simplify and streamline health & safety management systems.

    Linkedin: Aimee Arsenault

    Instagram: @transmit.safety

    Twitter: @transmitsafety

    Website: transmitsafety.com

     

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, her speciality is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org

     

  • Starting her engineering career in the 1990ies, Andrea Zimmerl could never quite limit herself to just one profession: consulting for small Austrian companies in plastics technology she soon felt the need to help other engineers with her experience–because she realized that excellent technicians don't necessarily make good communicators. From engineer to communications coach to life coach, she later ran a program called 'Women in STEM'.

    In this episode, Olivia and Andrea discuss the necessity to say 'no' and why too much flexibility is a danger to your boundaries.

    If you need help mastering your Business English, Technical English, and business communication skills so that English will become your new superpower, book a free introduction call here:

    https://www.marcode.org/freeconsultation

    Olivia offers online courses for systematic thinkers. Hands-on knowledge, custom-made courses, from engineer to engineer. 

    PS: As promised the link to Andrea's Instagram so you can follow her dog Happy: https://www.instagram.com/happy_simple_dog/

     

  • With thirty years in the construction industry, Becky Paroz has demonstrated her leadership skills on some of the most demanding projects in Australia. Becky is an engineer, a project manager and Director in three companies. And as if that wouldn’t be enough to fill one's day to the brim, she is also a professional mentor, forming the next generation of industry leaders–and she has awards to prove it, e.g. the Fearless Educator Award 2019.

     

    Becky and Olivia are talking about industry jargon, the engineers' lingo, and why you might wanna ditch it–especially when working with an international team. Years of experience in QA (quality assurance) have taught Becky that simple and clear communication is the key to quality and safety–no matter how big or small the project.

    If you need help mastering your Business English, Technical English, and business communication skills so that English will become your new superpower, book a free introduction call here:

    https://www.marcode.org/freeconsultation

    Olivia offers online courses for systematic thinkers. Hands-on knowledge, custom made courses, from engineer to engineer. 

  • When it comes to learning a new language, English is often touted as one of the most confusing and least straightforward languages to comprehend. This is particularly true for those learning how to leverage the English language in a professional setting, as technical terms across industries tend to vary dramatically. But as a professional, you already know how important it is to communicate clearly with your co-workers, and that’s why I’ve put together my top tips for helping you master technical English with an engineering focus.

     

    (1) Here's the link I promised you in the 2nd part of this episode: https://interestingengineering.com/15-best-tv-shows-for-engineers

    (2) And this EMAILS FOR ENGINEERS template package has been created to help you save time and simplify your project management with 30+ English email templates which you can personalise in minutes: www.marcode.org/emailsforengineers

     

  • When working on an international project with engineers from different countries, you have to ask yourself one question:

    Do you want to be right, or do you want a relationship?

    What does that mean? Find out in today's episode of English for Engineers.

    Today's guest is Catherine Stagg-Macey, executive coach and mojo wing woman for mid-career professionals ready to reclaim their spark in their career (without setting fire to their lives). 

    And if you think "I need an Olivia in my life" at the end of this podcast, use this link to book a free 15min consultation. Let me help you make sense of the suckiest language in the world. With an approach that won’t bore you like your high-school English studies, will have you enjoying learning the ins and outs of Technical and Business English, and crush that inner perfectionist to move forward so perfectly easy + efficiently.

     

    (the link I promised you at the end of the episode: www.converationsattheedge.com)

  • Ever wondered what it's like for an Austrian to move, work and teach in Australia?

    Listen to this episode where Olivia interviews Christian Urich, her former classmate, who once promised their English teacher to never ever again speak English. And why it's a good thing he never listened!

     

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:

    - about the differences in Engineering culture,

    - why numbers do not always work,

    - and why you should never say sorry.

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds to improve their communication skills so Technical + Business English becomes their new superpower.

     

    RESOURCES + LINKS

    Grab the 5 language learning tips as a PDF: https://www.marcode.org/unstuckyourenglish

    Simplify your project communication with the Emails for Engineers template package: https://www.marcode.org/emailsforengineers

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where Olivia helps engineers master their Business English, Technical English, and conversational skills so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

      

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org

  • This is the 2nd and final part of an interview with Ama Zbarcea, communication specialist, legal expert, expat, and polyglot.

    Ama has a multicultural background, and she has worked with people from various cultures. On top of that: she knows from experience what it means to be 'lost in translation'.  

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’ll LEARN:

     About cultural differences between the US and England. how speaking up makes you 'American.’ why 'You are so rude' was meant to be a compliment.

     

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds improve their communication skills and provide them with interesting facts from side industries so Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.

     

    RESOURCES AND LINKS:

    Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you streamline your email writing efforts (with more than 30 English email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).

      

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Technical English and international business communication so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

     

    CONNECT WITH AMA ZBARCEA

    With her company, On Your Own Terms, Ama offers understandable, affordable, & non-boring legal help for online small businesses to achieve success without legal stress. My personal favourite product is her template toolbox, where I create all legal documents for my company as well.

     

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doitonyourownterms

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/on_your_own_terms_/

    Website: https://www.onyourownterms.net

     

     

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org

     

     

  • In this episode of English for Engineers, Olivia is talking to Ama Zbarcea, a legal expert, communication specialist, and polyglot.

    Ama is not an engineer, but as a legal expert, her weapon of choice is the English language. Ama has an international background regarding her personal life, and she has worked with people from various cultures. On top of that: she knows from experience what it means to be 'lost in translation'.

      

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’ll LEARN:

     About differences between US English and British English. How not to ruin the 1st impression in the minefield of international business communication. Why behavior is more important than grammar (egalitarian vs. hierarchical cultures).

     

    The English for Engineers podcast is here to help engineers and technicians from all backgrounds improve their communication skills and provide them with interesting facts from side industries so Technical and Business English becomes their new superpower.

     

    RESOURCES AND LINKS:

    Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you streamline your email writing efforts (with more than 30 English email templates and priceless bonuses that will teach you how to structure emails, how to switch between formal and informal language, and how to quickly and reliably check for mistakes before sending).

     

    Today's episode was sponsored by Marcode, a coaching business where I help engineers master their Technical English and international business communication so that talking in English will become their new superpower.

     

    CONNECT WITH AMA ZBARCEA

    With her company, On Your Own Terms, Ama offers understandable, affordable, & non-boring legal help for online small businesses to achieve success without legal stress. My personal favourite product is her template toolbox, where I create all legal documents for my company as well.

     

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doitonyourownterms

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/on_your_own_terms_/

    Website: https://www.onyourownterms.net

     

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org

     

  • What's Business English?

    What's Technical English?

    What's Simplified Technical English?

    What's English for Engineers?

     

    All those questions (and more) get answered in this podcast!

    There is so much confusion around the term 'Technical English'. And I’m quite sure you’ve heard the terms Business English. They get thrown around a lot. And then there's also Simplified Technical English. But have you ever wondered what exactly those terms mean? I'll explain why I like to call this hybrid of Business English, necessary tech vocabulary and the helpful rules of STE 'English for Engineers'.

     

    If you, after listening to this episode, wonder if your business might benefit from English for Engineers have a look at my website, my blog, my social media. Feel free to check me out. Or book a free consultation (link on my website).

     

    The Marcode Blog:

    What is Technical English https://www.marcode.org/blog/036

    What is Business English https://www.marcode.org/blog/009

     

  • This is the very 1st episode of Olivia's ENGLISH FOR ENGINEERS podcast, where she introduces herself and tells you a little bit about her background in engineering. She's also sharing 4 language learning tips that you can easily introduce into your daily routine. Olivia's mission: helping you master your Business English, Technical English, and conversational skills so that talking English will become your new superpower.

     

    What can you expect from this podcast in the future? 

    The primary reason for this podcast is that Olivia wants to provide you with interesting language input. She's going to share tips and tricks regarding Technical English, Business English, and English Business communication across cultures, but she also wants to share scientific research that backs up language learning techniques. Olivia is interviewing international experts so you can get used to different accents and get used to different ways of seeing the world. Her guests will always have a connection to engineering in general, construction, technical English, or business communication.

     

    To download the pdf resource mentioned, go to https://www.marcode.org/unstuckyourenglish

     

     

    MORE RESOURCES AND LINKS:

    1. Read more about why engineers are good at learning English here: https://www.marcode.org/blog/052

    2. Check out the Emails for Engineers template package to help you simplify your international project communication. 

    3. Here, you can get the eBook "How to Write a Report and present it too."

     

    CONNECT WITH OLIVIA AUGUSTIN

    Olivia Augustin is a civil engineer and certified English teacher turned corporate trainer, her specialty is dissecting the intricate structures of the English language and only putting back the pieces engineers really need to become skilled communicators.

    LinkedIn: Olivia Augustin

    Instagram: @_marcode_

    Podcast: English for Engineers

    Website: marcode.org