Episodes
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Michael's conversation with Chad Smeltzer covers the essentials of how city managers handle budgeting, the significance of long-term fiscal planning, and the challenges cities face with infrastructure management. Through his tenure in cities like San Antonio and Ventura, Michael emphasizes the importance of understanding both current and future fiscal impacts to create sustainable city environments. The episode also explores the innovative solutions offered by Zachtax in assisting cities with sales tax and property tax analytics for smarter, data-driven decision making.
Importance of Long-Term Planning: Cities often focus on short-term financials due to system limitations, ignoring crucial long-term infrastructure costs. Data-Driven Decisions: Access to detailed, real-time data can empower city managers to make informed economic and infrastructure decisions. Role of Zachtax: Zachtax provides necessary tools for cities to analyze sales tax and property tax data, aiding in economic development and fiscal sustainability. Management Challenges: Transitioning from managing projects to managing people and navigating crises like Hurricane Harvey poses unique challenges for city managers. Development and Fiscal Impact: Evaluating the fiscal impact of new developments can help cities plan sustainably and avoid future financial burdens. -
Elliot Smith is a forward-thinking entrepreneur with a background in municipal engineering. With nearly seven years in consulting, Elliot discovered his path after recognizing the potential and necessity for innovation within civil infrastructure. Not limiting himself to engineering alone, he sought to expand his expertise and completed an MBA to bridge the gap between engineering and business. As the CEO of Motmot, Elliot has positioned himself at the forefront of modernizing underground infrastructure through technology.
In this engaging conversation, host Chad Smeltzer explores the intersections of engineering, entrepreneurship, and technology with Elliot Smith, CEO of Motmot. The episode dives into the innovative world of civil infrastructure and how emerging technologies can revolutionize its maintenance and management. Elliot discusses his journey from discovering civil engineering to becoming an innovator seeking to disrupt the industry with advanced solutions for water system inspection and maintenance.
From Elliot's evolution from an engineer to a business-savvy CEO, this episode sheds light on the pressing need for infrastructural insights and the development of Motmot's unique robot technology.
### Key Takeaways:
* Elliot Smith transitioned from a municipal engineer to an entrepreneur after identifying the need for more cost-effective infrastructure inspection.
* Motmot, Elliot's company, is developing a robotic solution that offers long-term, autonomous inspection of water systems to help communities manage underground infrastructure.
* There's a pressing need for transparency and public education on water systems, alongside more efficient funding and workforce strategies.
* Advanced technologies like Motmot's robotic inspector can potentially save communities money and improve predictive maintenance of water systems.
* The adoption of innovative infrastructure technologies faces resistance but also garners significant interest from communities seeking improved management tools. -
Missing episodes?
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In this revealing episode listeners get a glimpse into the world of underground infrastructure through the lens of industry expert Carter Hobbs.
Carter unpacks the complexities and challenges involved in locating and managing buried utilities—a topic of increasing importance amid rapid urban development.
Throughout the discussion, Carter Hobbs dives into the intricacies of locating underground utilities, clarifying the realities faced by construction professionals when encountering uncharted or mis documented infrastructure.
He touches upon the technology used, the "wild west" nature of record-keeping, and the collaborative efforts necessary to minimize risks associated with utility strikes.
This conversation sheds light on the growth-induced pressure on existing underground systems and the need for better data management practices.
Key Takeaways:
Growing urbanization has created a demand for expanded utility infrastructure, while outdated records complicate the accurate location of existing underground utilities.
The 811 system is a critical first step in utility location, but its markers can be inaccurately placed, necessitating hands-on verification through hydro excavation techniques.
Innovations in technology such as GPS tracking could greatly improve the accuracy of utility location, but current methods like ground-penetrating radar still lack reliability.
Data management is key; as construction companies and cities must collaborate better to ensure accurate records are retained, ensuring safer and more efficient future excavation endeavors.
Utility strikes are alarmingly commonplace—with striking occurring every nine minutes on average—costing billions annually in
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Join host Chad Smeltzer as he discusses non-revenue water loss with water loss consultants Emma Quail and Andrew Swirsky. They explore the economic impact of water loss on utilities and the need for effective water loss reduction strategies. The conversation delves into the challenges utilities face in prioritizing water loss reduction and the importance of accurate data and measurement. The guests also emphasize the need for collaboration between utilities and service providers to implement effective non-revenue water management solutions. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of water management.
### About the Guest(s):
**Andrew Swirsky** is the founder of Infrasync, a firm dedicated to helping utilities leverage new technologies and accelerate their adoption to improve infrastructure. With a background in engineering, Andrew has worked with companies like Jones & Carter and Stantec, focusing on projects across the water cycle. His efforts span from large capital projects to digital twins and advanced technologies in leak detection.
**Emma Quail** is an independent water loss control consultant with nearly 23 years of experience. With a master's in environmental science from Northern Ireland, she inadvertently found her passion in the non-revenue water space. Her experience includes hands-on leak detection, data analysis, sales, and business development. Emma advocates for practical experience in the field and has worked for major players in the industry, as well as engaging with startups to bring innovative water loss solutions to the market. -
Tom Moore is the Vice President of Operations at Vepo Solutions and the CEO and President of 123 Backflow Testing. With his start in 2008 in civil infrastructure, Tom has established a significant presence in the industry, particularly in the New York City metro area. After initially involving himself in water meter changes as a favor to a friend, he quickly recognized opportunities in the backflow prevention space and has since grown his company to perform nearly 20,000 backflow tests annually. Tom is also heavily engaged in the adoption and implementation of smart city technologies and is pioneering the evolution of smart water metering systems across the United States.
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James Golden is the CEO of PMG Pavement Management Group and has made a substantial impact in the pavement management industry. With 27 years of experience under his belt, James has grown from a draftsman to a pioneering executive. His initial exposure to civil infrastructure began with an internship at the Ohio Department of Transportation, leading to the development of a profound understanding of pavement management consulting. James's passion for utilizing data-driven decisions has made him a mentor and an influential voice in the infrastructure community. His extensive background and innovative approach have positioned him as a thought leader in transforming the way municipal road networks are assessed and maintained.
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George Kurz is a seasoned environmental engineer with a focus on sanitary sewer systems and water quality. Graduating from Tennessee Tech University in 1974, George Kurz has spent decades honing his expertise in environmental and sanitary engineering. He implemented the first EPA-approved pretreatment program in Tennessee while serving with the City of Chattanooga and has worked extensively on overflow abatement programs. Kurz emphasizes the importance of detecting and addressing infrastructure issues early and has dedicated much of his career to studying sewer systems, executing flow monitoring, and developing efficient methods for system analysis and rehabilitation.
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Steve Rienks is a seasoned civil engineering professional who serves as the Director of Engineering at American Surveying and Engineering Company in Chicago. With a vivid background that stretches from military service as a heavy equipment operator to pivotal roles in developing major infrastructure projects like Chicago's Orange Line, Steve boasts a rich blend of hands-on experience and academic rigor. His career reflects a thorough understanding of civil engineering, construction management, and the nuances of urban development, marked by his ongoing efforts to improve utility detection and infrastructure documentation processes.
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Mike McGill, founder of WaterPIO, discusses the importance of proactive communication for water and wastewater utilities. He shares his background in political news and PR work, and how he transitioned into the water industry. Mike emphasizes the need for utilities to work with the press, communicate with customers and elected officials, and build trust through proactive communication. He also discusses the challenges faced by utilities in dealing with lead and PFAS issues, and the importance of proper messaging and planning.
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Chad Smeltzer interviews Robert Reavis, a state trooper and transportation technology leader at Veridat, on the Infrastructure network podcast. Reavis shares his background in law enforcement and discusses the challenges faced by police officers. He also highlights the importance of technology in law enforcement, particularly in protecting the integrity of data, such as body cam footage, from manipulation. Reavis emphasizes the need for smart city integration and proactive measures to ensure public safety. Contact Reavis on LinkedIn for further information.
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In this compelling interview, Dr. Heidi Gregory-Mina, a seasoned business psychologist and mental health specialist, delves into the significant impact of stress and burnout on construction workers. With over 14 years of experience in healthcare and education, Dr. Gregory-Mina brings insightful perspectives on employee engagement, mental well-being, and creating a positive work culture. Join us as we explore the challenges faced by construction workers, the importance of prioritizing mental health in the industry, and the future of construction in the face of evolving technologies. Gain valuable insights into supporting the mental well-being of workers in the construction industry and the critical role it plays in safety and quality of infrastructure projects.
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Jack Phan, CEO of AirDeck Co., shares his entrepreneurial journey and the lessons he learned from his father, who started an upholstery business after immigrating to the US. Jack discusses the challenges his father faced as an entrepreneur and the importance of building strong customer relationships.
He also talks about his experience in the tech industry and how he became involved with AirDeck Co. Jack explains how AirDeck Co. is revolutionizing digital communication by allowing users to narrate presentations and documents, track engagement, and personalize content. He shares his vision for the future of AirDeck Co. and the role of AI in enhancing communication on a global scale.
Key Takeaways:
Entrepreneurship is in Jack Phan's blood, thanks to his father's influence and his own passion for technology and innovation. Word of mouth and building strong customer relationships are still essential for business success. AirDeck Co. allows users to narrate presentations and documents, track engagement, and personalize content. The future of AirDeck Co. includes global expansion, AI integration, and bridging the gap in communication.Quotes:
"Entrepreneurship was something that I grew up with... my dad was always one of those people that always wanted to create things and take care of his family." - Jack Phan "Word of mouth goes a long, long way... it's about how they feel and the relationships that they build with the people that are servicing them." - Jack Phan "Your story needs to be told by you and your narrative, and AirDeck helps you do that." - Jack Phan "AirDeck is revolutionizing the way we communicate... it's about saving time and doing things effectively, efficiently, and being able to scale your business and your content." - Jack Phan -
Chad Smeltzer hosts a conversation with Brian Jack, Utility Superintendent for the City of Lombard, Illinois, and Charlie Rotman, Midwest Account Manager for Infosense. They discuss sewer optimization and how Lombard is utilizing technology like SL Rat to prioritize their sewer systems. Brian shares the history of Lombard's sewers and their previous maintenance methods, while Charlie explains how the SL Rat technology works and how it can help cities prioritize their resources. They also discuss the limitations of the technology and the importance of having a plan in place to utilize the data effectively. Brian highlights the cost reduction and increased efficiency they have experienced since implementing the SL Rat program. The conversation concludes with Chad thanking Brian and Charlie for their insights and offering their contact information for further discussions.
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In this episode of the Infrastructure Network, host Chad Smeltzer is joined by Michael Simpson and Barbara Robinson to discuss the persistent problem of sewer infiltration and inflow (I&I). They explore the reasons why I&I continues to plague sewer systems and the challenges faced in addressing this issue. The guests emphasize the importance of public education, proper data management, and the use of technology to tackle INI effectively. They also highlight the need for a shift in mindset and the adoption of new approaches in the industry.
Key Takeaways:
Public education is crucial in addressing I&I, as many residents are unaware of their responsibility for maintaining their private sewer laterals.
Traditional methods of flow monitoring and modeling are not effective in finding and fixing I&I. A more targeted and localized approach is needed.
Technology, such as Electroscan tools, can provide actionable information about the condition of sewer pipes and help prioritize repairs.
Municipalities should consider the true cost of I&I, including the impact on wastewater treatment plants, when making decisions about infrastructure investments.
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Looking to gain insights into the world of civil infrastructure and asset management? Don't miss this engaging discussion with Dr. Tom Iseley and Dr. Dennis Traux. Their expertise will inspire you to think differently about the future of our infrastructure. #InfrastructureInsights #AssetManagement #InfrastructureNetwork
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Chad Smeltzer, Donnell Duncan, and Bill Davis discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion in the civil infrastructure industry. They emphasize the need to change the culture and mindset surrounding these issues. They address common objections and misconceptions, such as the belief that diversity compromises quality. They highlight the importance of measuring diversity and inclusion efforts and striving for equity in hiring and services. The end goal is to shift the culture and create a more inclusive environment where everyone is valued and respected.
Chad Smeltzer, Donnell Duncan, and Bill Davis discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion in the infrastructure industry. They emphasize the need to change the culture and mindset surrounding these issues. They address common objections and misconceptions, such as the belief that diversity compromises quality. They highlight the importance of measuring diversity and inclusion efforts and striving for equity in hiring and services. The end goal is to shift the culture and create a more inclusive environment where everyone is valued and respected.
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In this eye-opening episode of The Infrastructure Network, we sit down with Rick Joy, the CEO of Easy Cam, to discuss the seismic shifts in the plumbing industry. From the days of his father's Roto-Rooter franchise to the cutting-edge technology of Easy Cam, Rick shares his journey and insights into the plumbing world.
🔧 Why Listen?
The Good Old Days Meets Innovation: Rick reminisces about the good old days when plumbers were more professional and referral-based, contrasting it with today's rush-to-finish approach.
Customer Service Crisis: We delve into the erosion of customer service in the industry, discussing how the rush to complete jobs is costing plumbers valuable opportunities and tarnishing their reputation.
The Downtime Dilemma: Rick introduces Easy Cam, a game-changing solution that aims to eliminate the downtime and high repair costs associated with traditional sewer inspection cameras.
The ROI of Cameras: Rick argues that any camera, if used correctly, can be the most profitable tool a plumber can have, emphasizing the importance of transparency with customers.
The Future is Now: We explore the new challenges and opportunities in the plumbing industry, including the role of technology and the need for diversification of services.
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Are you curious about how to break into the tech industry without a traditional college degree? In this episode of The Infrastructure Network, we sit down with Chad Smeltzer and Pan Leung from LaunchCode, an organization dedicated to helping people from diverse backgrounds enter the tech workforce. We discuss the challenges of workforce development, the importance of diversity in tech, and how LaunchCode is making a difference.
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🎧 About This Episode:
Join host Landon Sparks for an enlightening conversation with Mark Lee, a civil engineer who's at the forefront of technological innovation in the infrastructure industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how cutting-edge technology like AI is shaping the future of civil engineering and asset management.🔍 Why You Should Listen:
Curious about the future of infrastructure? Want to know how AI is transforming asset management? Looking for career advice in civil engineering?🎙️ In This Episode, You'll Learn:
Mark Lee's journey from a high school student interested in engineering to a seasoned professional. How AI is revolutionizing the way we manage and assess water and sewer systems. The challenges of modernizing aging infrastructure and how to overcome resistance to change. Mark's invaluable career advice for young professionals entering the field. -
In this episode Chad Smeltzer has an in-depth conversations with Sean Borris, we explore the complexities and nuances of pipe lining, particularly within the oil and gas sectors. Sean has over 450 miles of pipe lined, Sean shares insights into the various technologies, methods, and challenges he has encountered. Sean's dealing with unexpected issues like bullet holes in liners to the vital role of education in the industry, these discussions offer a unique perspective into an essential part of our infrastructure. Whether you're a seasoned professional or someone interested in the world of pipe rehab, these talks provide valuable insights into a field that's becoming more and more viable for various applications.#PipeLining #TrenchlessTechnology #Infrastructure #OilAndGas #Education #Challenges #Innovation #utilities
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